Let’s be honest, after the Thanksgiving feast, facing a fridge packed with leftovers can feel a tad overwhelming, right? But what if those precious bits of turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing could be transformed into something even more delicious? Enter my Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole, a warm, comforting dish that breathes new life into your holiday favorites. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, and a great way to avoid food waste. Who needs another turkey sandwich anyway?
Top Reasons To Make It
This isn’t your average leftover dish. This Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole is a celebration in itself! Here are the top 3 reasons why you’ll want to make it:
- It’s quick and easy: Transform those leftovers into a delicious meal in minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s customizable: Feel free to use whatever Thanksgiving leftovers you have on hand. Get creative!
- It’s comforting and flavorful: Warm, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of Thanksgiving. So good.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting casserole. You will find the exact measurements below in the recipe card.
- Cooked turkey: For that classic Thanksgiving flavor.
- Stuffing: Because what’s Thanksgiving without it?
- Cranberry sauce: Adds a touch of sweetness and tartness.
- Gravy: The glue that holds it all together, literally.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Adds richness and creaminess.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Because cheese makes everything better.
- French fried onions: For a crispy, crunchy topping.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly, and cheese is golden brown and melted.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
This recipe is super versatile! Try these ideas: Swap the cheddar for Gruyère or Swiss. Add a layer of mashed sweet potatoes for extra sweetness. Honestly, if you hate cranberry, feel free to leave it out! For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream of mushroom soup and your favorite dairy-free cheese.
Oven Temperatures
For conventional ovens, bake at 350°F (175°C). For convection ovens, reduce the temperature by 25°F and bake at 325°F (165°C).
Serving Ideas & Pairings
This Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole is a wonderful stand-alone dish. But, you could pair it with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or green beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Please be sure to refrigerate leftovers promptly after the meal to prevent the growth of bacteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover Thanksgiving casserole recipes for other holidays? Absolutely! This casserole’s concept works beautifully with roasted chicken or other holiday roasts.
Are there Thanksgiving leftover recipes casserole variations suitable for vegetarians? You bet! Simply omit the turkey and add roasted vegetables.
This Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole is one of my favorite ways to enjoy those holiday flavors again. With its warm, comforting flavors and simple preparation, there’s no reason to let those precious leftovers go to waste! I swear this may be the most used of my Thanksgiving leftover casserole recipes.