There’s something so comforting about a warm casserole, especially when it’s made with love and leftover turkey. I still remember the cozy family dinners around the table, where everyone dug into a hearty dish, sharing stories and laughter. It’s like a big, warm hug in a baking dish! This easy leftover turkey casserole is a delightful way to transform your holiday leftovers into a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Just imagine tender turkey, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables all mingling together in a creamy sauce, topped with melted cheese—yum! Plus, the best part? It’s incredibly simple to whip up, so you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen. Trust me, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this dish brings the warmth of home and the joy of family meals right to your table. Let’s dive into making this easy, delicious casserole together!

Ingredients for Leftover Turkey Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this comforting casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 3 cups leftover turkey, shredded: Make sure your turkey is cooked and cooled; it’s great if it’s from your holiday feast! Just shred it using your hands or a fork into bite-sized pieces.
• 2 cups cooked rice: You can use any type of cooked rice you have on hand—white, brown, or even leftover rice from takeout works wonderfully!
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: These add a pop of color and nutrition. You don’t need to thaw them—just toss them in frozen!
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup: This will give the casserole its creamy texture. If you prefer, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup for a different flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Who doesn’t love melty cheese on top? Feel free to switch it up with mozzarella or a cheese blend if you want!
• 1/2 cup milk: This helps to smooth everything out. You can use any milk you have—whole, skim, or even a non-dairy alternative.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you have fresh garlic, you can use that instead—just mince a clove or two!
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: This enhances the overall taste. If you prefer fresh onions, sauté them first until they’re soft, then add them in.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season it! Start with a pinch, and adjust to your preference.

Having these ingredients ready will make your casserole preparation a breeze, allowing you to enjoy the process and the delicious meal ahead!

How to Prepare Leftover Turkey Casserole

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started on making this delicious casserole! Don’t worry; it’s really straightforward, and I’ll guide you through each step.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C): This is an important first step! Preheating ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and comes out perfectly bubbly and golden.
2. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, take your shredded leftover turkey, cooked rice, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until well combined. It’s okay if the vegetables are still frozen—they’ll cook beautifully in the oven!
3. Transfer to a baking dish: Grease a baking dish (about 9×13 inches works well) with a little cooking spray or butter. Pour your turkey mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly so it bakes nicely.
4. Top with cheese: Here comes the best part! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the mixture. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it’s what makes everything extra comforting and delicious!
5. Bake your casserole: Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s irresistible!
6. Let it cool a bit: Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help everything set a little, making it easier to scoop out portions.

And there you have it! A hearty leftover turkey casserole that’s not only easy to make but also a delightful family meal. I can already taste the comfort in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up this casserole in no time. Perfect for busy days!
• Comforting nature: There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy casserole to wrap you in comfort. It’s like a cozy blanket for your belly!
• Perfect use of leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to transform leftover turkey into something new and delicious, minimizing food waste and maximizing flavor.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will love this dish, from kids to grandparents. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together at the dinner table.
• Versatile and forgiving: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
• Hearty and filling: Packed with protein and carbs, this casserole is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites, keeping everyone happy and full.

Tips for Success

To make sure your leftover turkey casserole turns out just right, I’ve got a few handy tips that will help you along the way. With these suggestions, you’ll feel like a casserole pro in no time!

• Don’t rush the preheating: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before popping the casserole in. This ensures even cooking and that lovely bubbly cheese we all crave.
• Adjust for size: If you have more turkey or rice, feel free to increase the quantities! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time slightly, checking for doneness as you go.
• Cheese choices: While cheddar is a classic, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try a blend of cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a little kick. Yum!
• Vegetable variations: If you have leftover vegetables from your holiday feast, toss them in! Green beans, corn, or even spinach can add great flavor and nutrition.
• Make it lighter: For a healthier version, you can use low-fat cream soups and reduced-fat cheese. And for those watching carbs, substituting rice with cauliflower rice works wonders!
• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If it’s not bubbly and golden after 30 minutes, give it a few extra minutes—but keep a close watch!
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps everything settle, making it easier to serve. Plus, it’ll be less likely to burn your tongue!

With these tips, you’ll create a casserole that’s not just tasty, but also a true comfort food delight. Enjoy the process and have fun making it your own!

Variations on Leftover Turkey Recipes Easy

One of the best things about this leftover turkey casserole is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas to enhance the flavor and make it your own:

• Vegetable Medley: Feel free to swap in different frozen vegetables based on your favorites. Broccoli, peas, or even chopped bell peppers can add great color and nutrition!
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy twist. A dash of paprika can also add a lovely smoky flavor.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the dish beautifully. Just a teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning can bring a lovely aroma and taste.
• Cheesy Goodness: Try mixing different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. A blend of gouda and mozzarella will create a wonderfully creamy texture, or throw in some feta for a tangy kick!
• Grain Variations: Instead of rice, you can use quinoa or even couscous for a different texture and taste. Both add a nice nutty flavor that pairs well with turkey.
• Mushroom Lovers: If you enjoy mushrooms, consider adding sautéed fresh mushrooms or using a combination of cream of mushroom and cream of celery soup for a richer taste.
• Leftover Stuffing: If you have leftover stuffing from your holiday meal, mix it into the casserole for added flavor and a delightful twist. It brings a whole new level of comfort!

These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to make the casserole fit your family’s preferences. So don’t be shy—experiment and find your perfect combination!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve created a delicious leftover turkey casserole, let’s talk about how to store those tasty leftovers properly. I always like to make sure my food stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible!

To store your casserole, let it cool down completely first. This helps prevent condensation from forming in your storage container. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can also cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap if you prefer to keep it in the same dish. It should stay good in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.

If you want to save some for later, this casserole freezes beautifully! Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. When properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months. Just be sure to label it with the date so you know when you made it!

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is super simple. If you’re reheating from the fridge, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep it moist, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated all the way through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just cover with a microwave-safe lid and heat for a couple of minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

If you’ve frozen the casserole, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This way, it heats evenly and tastes just as good as when you first made it. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Nutritional Information

As you enjoy this comforting leftover turkey casserole, it’s always nice to know what you’re feeding your family! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 cup). Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 25g

These values give you a good idea of the hearty, filling nature of this dish, packed with protein from the turkey and a lovely balance of carbohydrates. Remember, you can always adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, so feel free to experiment! Enjoy this delicious meal knowing it’s both comforting and nourishing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?
Absolutely! While this recipe is perfect for leftover turkey, you can easily substitute it with shredded chicken or even ham. Just adjust the seasonings slightly to match the flavor of the meat you’re using.

How should I store leftovers?
Let your casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze it for up to 2 to 3 months. Just be sure to label it with the date!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance! Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious!

How do I know when the casserole is done?
Your casserole is ready when the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The edges should be just starting to brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out hot. Trust me, you’ll smell it too—it’s hard to resist!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Of course! Brown rice is a great substitute and adds a nice nutty flavor. Just be aware that it might require a bit more liquid and a longer cooking time if you’re using uncooked brown rice.

Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this casserole can be made gluten-free! Just ensure you’re using gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check the labels on your other ingredients. Enjoy without worry!

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in any leftover veggies you have on hand. Corn, green beans, or even spinach can be wonderful additions. They’ll bring more color and nutrition to your casserole!

Leftover Turkey Recipes Easy: Comforting Casserole Delight

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This easy leftover turkey casserole is a comforting dish that makes use of your leftover turkey. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a family meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups leftover turkey, shredded
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cooked rice, mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.

Notes

• You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
• For a healthier option, use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.
• Add any leftover vegetables you have on hand for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: leftover turkey recipes easy, turkey casserole, easy turkey recipes