Ah, leftover turkey! It’s like a little gift after a big feast, isn’t it? I always find myself with more turkey than I know what to do with, especially after Thanksgiving or any family gathering. That’s where this comforting dish comes into play, turning those leftovers into something warm and delicious. I love using leftover turkey recipes that not only save time but also wrap you in that cozy feeling of home-cooked goodness.
This recipe is simple, and it comes together quickly, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy Sunday. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the smell of a warm, cheesy turkey bake wafting through the house! It’s a dish that brings everyone together, making it a wonderful option for sharing with family or friends. So grab your leftovers, and let’s create something delicious!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups shredded leftover turkey: This is the star of the dish! Make sure it’s cooked and cooled before shredding for easy handling.
- 1 cup turkey broth: If you don’t have turkey broth on hand, chicken broth works just as well. It adds moisture and flavor!
- 1 cup packed frozen mixed vegetables: I love using a mix of carrots, peas, and corn, but feel free to use whatever you have in your freezer. Fresh veggies can work too, just remember to chop them small!
- 1 cup cooked rice: You can use white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a nutty flavor. Just make sure it’s already cooked before adding it to the mix.
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup: This adds a creamy texture that ties everything together. If you want a lighter option, look for a low-fat version or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A little pinch of flavor that enhances the dish without being overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: This adds depth and complements the garlic perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season to your preference, but remember, you can always add more later!
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional): I love topping this with cheese for that melty goodness, but you can skip it if you’re going dairy-free or just want to keep it lighter.
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because you want your dish to bake evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded leftover turkey, turkey broth, frozen mixed vegetables, cooked rice, and cream of mushroom soup. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder, along with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are well combined. This is where the magic starts!
- Once everything is mixed, transfer the turkey mixture into a greased baking dish. I usually use a 9×13-inch dish, but any similar size will do just fine.
- If you’re opting for cheese, sprinkle it generously on top. I can’t resist a good cheesy crust, but remember, it’s completely optional!
- Now, pop that dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the edges are just starting to brown. The whole kitchen should smell amazing by now!
- Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps avoid any burnt tongues and allows everything to settle nicely.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this dish up in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food Appeal: This bake is like a warm hug on a plate, bringing all the cozy feels from childhood dinners.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in whatever veggies or grains you have on hand, making it adaptable to your pantry.
- Great for Leftovers: It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty dish, making it a win for family meals.
- Easy to Customize: Whether you want to add spices, different cheese, or even a crunchy topping, the options are endless!
Tips for Success
To ensure your turkey bake comes out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips to share!
- Mix Thoroughly: When combining your ingredients, make sure everything is mixed evenly. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor, and you won’t have any dry spots.
- Check Your Broth: If you’re using leftover turkey, the broth is key for moisture. If it seems too dry, add a little extra broth or even water. It’s better to have a bit more than not enough!
- Baking Time: Keep an eye on your dish as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so start checking around the 25-minute mark. You want the cheese to be bubbly and the edges slightly golden.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to use any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand. Broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers work beautifully, so get creative!
- Make It Your Own: You can swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce if you prefer. It’s all about what works for you and your taste buds!
- Let It Rest: After taking it out of the oven, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes. This helps everything set and makes serving much easier.
These little tips can make a big difference in your results. Happy cooking!
Variations
This turkey bake is so versatile, and I just love how you can switch things up to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to get those creative juices flowing!
- Veggie Swap: Instead of frozen mixed vegetables, try using fresh vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted zucchini, or even diced bell peppers. Just remember to chop them into small pieces so they blend nicely with the turkey.
- Different Cheeses: While I adore a good cheddar on top, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a stretchy texture, or feta for a tangy kick. You could even try a spicy pepper jack cheese if you’re in the mood for something with a bit of heat!
- Grain Alternatives: If you’re looking for a different base, swap out the rice for quinoa, couscous, or even barley. Each grain brings its unique flavor and texture, making the dish feel fresh and new.
- Herbs and Spices: Add a bit of flair with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. You can also toss in a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of warmth. These little touches can elevate the dish beautifully!
- Make It a Casserole: If you want to turn this into a full-blown casserole, layer it with some crispy breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for an added crunch.
- Dairy-Free Option: For those avoiding dairy, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free cream soup or a homemade sauce made from coconut milk and blended mushrooms.
With these variations, you can make this dish your own every time! Just remember to have fun and enjoy the cooking process. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious turkey bake, you might find yourselves with some leftovers. No worries! Proper storage is key to keeping that comforting flavor alive for another meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the turkey bake to cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make it soggy. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can also wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes beautifully! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Now, let’s talk about reheating. You want to bring back that lovely texture and flavor, and here’s how:
- Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey bake in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it’s warmed through. If you want that cheesy top to be extra bubbly, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of reheating.
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave! Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Just keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of your turkey bake again and again. It’s all about keeping it cozy and delicious, just like the first time you made it!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a hearty dish like this turkey bake, it’s nice to have an idea of what you’re serving up. Here’s a typical nutritional breakdown for one serving (about 1 cup) of this comforting recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 25g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and any modifications you make. If you decide to swap out ingredients or change portion sizes, just adjust these numbers accordingly. It’s always great to know what’s on your plate, but the most important thing is to enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! If you have leftover chicken on hand, it works just as well in this recipe. The flavors will still come together beautifully, so don’t hesitate to make that swap!
What other vegetables can I add?
You can get creative with your veggie choices! Broccoli, green beans, diced bell peppers, or even corn can make great additions. Just remember to chop them into small pieces for even cooking!
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Sure thing! You can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for added fiber. Also, opting for low-fat or dairy-free cream of mushroom soup can lighten things up a bit!
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, just ensure that your cream of mushroom soup is certified gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs on top if you want a crunchy finish!
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh!
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Your turkey bake is ready when the cheese is bubbly and the edges are starting to turn golden brown. You can also check by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out hot!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes wonderfully. Just allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer!
What’s the best way to reheat the leftovers?
For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just be sure to cover your dish to keep it moist!
Warm Leftover Turkey Recipes: 5 Cozy Dishes to Cherish
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting dish to use leftover turkey in a simple and delicious way.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
- 1 cup turkey broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, turkey broth, mixed vegetables, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- If using, sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth for turkey broth.
- Feel free to use any frozen vegetables you have on hand.
- Brown rice or quinoa can replace regular rice.
- For a dairy-free version, omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: leftover turkey recipes
