Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This leftover turkey casserole is a comforting and easy way to transform your holiday turkey into a hearty, cheesy dish. Packed with vegetables, cornbread, and creamy turkey gravy, it’s perfect for a family meal that feels both cozy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1 cup turkey gravy
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 3 cups cornbread, cut into 1-inch chunks
• 3 cups chopped cooked turkey meat
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped frozen green beans

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add the turkey gravy, milk, and shredded mozzarella, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
3. Step 3: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cornbread chunks, chopped turkey, peas, carrots, and green beans. Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the top and gently stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of dried thyme or sage to the gravy mixture before baking.
• Swapping mozzarella for sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack gives a different cheesy twist.
• Use fresh vegetables instead of frozen for a crispier texture; just steam them slightly before adding.
• Leftover mashed potatoes can be layered on top before baking for a casserole-potato bake hybrid.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover turkey broth instead of turkey gravy?

Yes, you can substitute turkey broth for gravy, but you may want to thicken it with a bit more flour or cornstarch to achieve a creamy consistency.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the turkey with cooked mushrooms or a plant-based protein, and use vegetable broth and cheese to keep the same creamy texture and flavor.

Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 81 reviews

This comforting Leftover Turkey Casserole is a perfect way to repurpose your cooked turkey and vegetables into a creamy, cheesy dish. Packed with hearty cornbread chunks, tender turkey, and mixed vegetables all baked in a rich mozzarella and gravy sauce, it’s an ideal family-friendly meal to enjoy any time of the year.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Sauce Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
• 1 cup turkey gravy
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups cornbread, cut into 1 inch chunks
• 3 cups chopped cooked turkey meat
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped frozen green beans

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Melt the butter and make roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add 1/4 cup flour and whisk continuously for 1 minute to create a smooth roux base for the sauce.
3. Add liquids and cheese: Slowly whisk in 1 cup turkey gravy, 1 cup whole milk, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy without lumps.
4. Assemble the casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine 3 cups of cornbread chunks, 3 cups chopped cooked turkey, 1/2 cup frozen peas, 1 cup chopped carrots, and 1 cup chopped frozen green beans evenly. Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the ingredients, making sure everything is coated well.
5. Bake covered: Cover the casserole dish with foil or a lid and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the casserole to heat through.
6. Bake uncovered: Remove the covering and bake for an additional 10 minutes to brown the top and achieve a slightly crispy texture on the surface.

Notes

• Ensure the turkey is pre-cooked and chopped for easy assembly.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the milk slightly or add more flour to the roux.
• Frozen vegetables can be substituted with fresh vegetables, but adjust baking time as needed.
• Leftover cornbread works perfectly in this recipe, saving time and adding great texture.
• Covering the casserole during the majority of baking keeps the moisture in, preventing dryness.

Keywords: leftover turkey, casserole, turkey recipe, cornbread casserole, baked casserole, comfort food, Thanksgiving leftovers