Tired of endless turkey sandwiches after the holidays? Transform those leftovers into something extraordinary without spending hours in the kitchen. This Leftover Turkey & Stuffing Casserole is your salvation a creamy, savory, and incredibly satisfying one-pan wonder that brings together all the best flavors of the holiday feast in a single, easy bake. It’s the ultimate comfort food designed specifically for post-celeberation relaxation, requiring minimal effort for maximum reward. Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself for a few delicious days, this casserole is the perfect way to reinvent your leftovers into a meal everyone will crave.
Why You’ll Love This Leftover Turkey Casserole
This recipe isn’t just another way to use up turkey. It’s a strategic upgrade. We combine moist turkey, savory stuffing, and vibrant vegetables in a rich, homemade sauce, then top it all with a crispy, cheesy layer. It’s:
- Incredibly Easy: Uses simple techniques and one baking dish.
- Highly Customizable: Use what you have different veggies, stuffings, or cheeses.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: The ultimate cozy meal for a chilly day.
- Efficient & Economical: Reduces food waste beautifully.
Leftover Turkey & Stuffing Casserole: Your Ingredient List
The beauty of this casserole lies in its flexibility. Here’s what you’ll need for the classic version.
Main Components
- 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced (about 1-1.5 lbs)
- 3 cups prepared stuffing, (homemade or store-bought)
- 1.5 cups mixed vegetables, (frozen peas and carrots, corn, or green beans work perfectly)
- 1.5 cups shredded cheese, divided (a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack is ideal)
For the Creamy Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- ½ cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried sage (or poultry seasoning)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Casserole
Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, delicious result every time.
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch (or similar 3-quart) baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Make the Flavor Base (The Aromatics)
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Create the Homemade Cream Sauce
This is the heart of the casserole!
- Sprinkle the ⅓ cup of flour over the onions and garlic. Whisk constantly and cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. This is your “roux.”
- Gradually pour in the 3 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk, whisking vigorously after each addition to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens noticeably, about 5-7 minutes. It should coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the ½ cup of sour cream (or heavy cream), 1 teaspoon of thyme, ½ teaspoon of sage, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- In the prepared baking dish, spread the 4 cups of turkey and 1.5 cups of mixed vegetables in an even layer.
- Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the turkey and vegetables.
- Gently dollop and spread the 3 cups of prepared stuffing over the top.
- Finally, sprinkle with 1 cup of the shredded cheese, reserving the remaining ½ cup.
Step 5: Bake to Golden-Brown Perfection
Place the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove it, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top, and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the edges are bubbly, and the top is beautifully golden brown.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole stand for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop and serve clean portions.
Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Stuffing Casserole
- Moisture is Key: If your leftover turkey seems dry, drizzle a little broth over it before adding the sauce.
- Stuffing Consistency: If your stuffing is very dry, moisten it with a splash of broth. If it’s very wet/mushy, the casserole will still taste great but may be less distinct in layers.
- Crispy Topping Lover? For extra crunch, mix a handful of crispy fried onions, crushed crackers, or buttered breadcrumbs with the final cheese layer.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Assemble the casserole completely (except for the final ½ cup of cheese), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the initial baking time since it will be cold. Add the final cheese in the last 10 minutes.
- Storage & Reheating: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Customize Your Casserole: Endless Variations
- Add Greens: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale with the vegetables.
- Cranberry Swirl: Add a layer of whole berry cranberry sauce between the turkey and the sauce for a sweet-tangy surprise.
- Different Grains: Substitute stuffing with cooked wild rice, quinoa, or cubed bread.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
Your New Go-To Leftover Solution
This Leftover Turkey & Stuffing Casserole is more than just a recipe it’s a tradition in the making. It honors the effort of your holiday meal by giving it a delicious and effortless second act. It’s creamy, comforting, and guaranteed to earn a permanent spot in your post-holiday routine. So, gather those leftovers, preheat your oven, and get ready to create the ultimate one-pan comfort meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t just eat your leftovers celebrate them all over again.
