Description
Leftover turkey casserole is the ultimate comfort food that transforms holiday leftovers into a hearty, satisfying meal. Imagine layers of tender turkey enveloped in a creamy sauce, combined with colorful vegetables and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile—you can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleaser that warms the heart and fills the belly. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and the familiar flavors of Thanksgiving, this casserole is a fantastic way to savor every last bite of turkey while creating new memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced: The star ingredient that makes this casserole a must-try.
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh): Options like peas, carrots, and corn add color and nutrition.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or homemade equivalent): This creates a creamy base for the casserole.
- 1 cup milk: Helps to thin out the sauce and adds creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds depth to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite): For that delicious cheesy goodness.
For the Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: Adds a crunchy texture on top.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra layer of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Helps to crisp up the topping.
Instructions
STEP 1: PREHEAT THE OVEN
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for ensuring that your casserole cooks evenly and develops a nice golden top.
STEP 2: PREPARE THE CASSEROLE MIXTURE
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture forms the base of your casserole, packed with flavor and nutrition.
STEP 3: ADD THE CHEESE
Fold in half of the shredded cheese into the turkey mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds creaminess to the casserole. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating a rich and gooey texture that everyone will love.
STEP 4: TRANSFER TO A BAKING DISH
Pour the turkey mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
STEP 5: MAKE THE TOPPING
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated. This mixture will create a crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
STEP 6: ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the turkey filling in the baking dish. Then, top with the remaining shredded cheese. This extra layer of cheese will create a delicious, melty top that adds to the overall appeal of the dish.
STEP 7: BAKE
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the topping is golden brown. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
STEP 8: LET IT REST
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to scoop out portions without losing the shape.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 28g