This Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole is a cozy mix of turkey, stuffing, and all your favorite sides. It’s like a warm hug from your fridge after the big feast!
What I love most is how easy it is to throw together. Just layer everything in a dish, bake, and enjoy! Who said leftovers can’t be exciting? 🦃✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Stuffing or Cornbread: Use whichever you have on hand! Cornbread adds a sweet touch, while traditional stuffing brings more savory flavors. You can even mix both if you’re feeling adventurous.
Turkey: Leftover turkey is ideal, but rotisserie chicken works too! If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or a meat substitute like tempeh for protein.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tangy flavor, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used too. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese alternatives.
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness and color. You could swap in raisins, chopped apples, or even pomegranate seeds for a fresh twist.
Walnuts or Pecans: These add crunch and nuttiness. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be great substitutes.
How Do I Ensure the Casserole is Perfectly Moist?
Keeping your casserole moist is key! Here are some tips:
- Use enough gravy—don’t be afraid to add more if the mixture looks dry.
- Mix gently to prevent breaking up your ingredients too much.
- If using dry stuffing, consider adding a splash of chicken broth for extra moisture.
- Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking to trap steam, then remove it to allow the top to brown.
With these tips, your casserole will be deliciously moist and packed with flavor! Enjoy repurposing your Thanksgiving feast. 🌟
Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole
Ingredients:
- 3 cups leftover cornbread or stuffing, crumbled
- 2 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cooked sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans, toasted
- 1/2 cup cooked green beans or mixed veggies (optional)
- 3/4 cup turkey gravy (or cream of mushroom soup as a substitute)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Butter or cooking spray for greasing the dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes for baking. So, in total, plan for about 45 minutes before you can enjoy this comforting casserole!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×9 inch baking dish or any casserole dish you have available. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the crumbled cornbread or stuffing, diced turkey, sweet potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, dried cranberries, nuts, and green beans if you’re including them. Gently stir to combine everything, being careful not to turn it into mush!
3. Add the Gravy:
Pour the turkey gravy over your mixture and gently fold it in so that everything gets coated nicely. If it seems a bit dry, just drizzle in a little more gravy or some cream of mushroom soup to keep it moist and delicious.
4. Prep for Baking:
Transfer the mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese on top to give it a nice melty finish once it’s baked.
5. Bake the Casserole:
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want it heated through and the top to be golden and bubbly. The smell will be irresistible!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a bright touch. Let it cool slightly before serving so you don’t burn your tongue on that warm, yummy goodness!
7. Enjoy!
Dig in and savor this wonderful way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers! It’s a warm, comforting meal that brings all your favorite flavors together. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Any Leftover Meat for This Casserole?
Absolutely! While turkey is traditional, you can use any leftover meat you have, like chicken or ham. Just ensure it’s cooked and seasoned to your taste!
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Add a splash of gravy if it seems a bit dry!
What Can I Substitute for Gravy?
If you don’t have gravy, cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce can work well. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter option!
