Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting, but what do you do with all those leftovers? Enter the Turkey and Stuffing Casserole—a comforting, easy-to-make dish that transforms your holiday remnants into a delectable meal. Perfect for home cooks, Thanksgiving enthusiasts, and casserole lovers alike, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked turkey, chopped
- 3 cups stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn), thawed if frozen
- 1 cup turkey gravy (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
Optional Sauce:
- 1 cup turkey gravy
- 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Preparation
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.
- Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces.
- Thaw frozen mixed vegetables or use fresh ones if preferred.
- In a large bowl, combine the turkey, mixed vegetables, shredded cheddar cheese, and stuffing.
- Mix the Seasoning
In a separate bowl, whisk together the turkey gravy, milk, melted butter, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
- Combine
Pour the seasoning mixture over the turkey, vegetables, and stuffing. Mix until everything is well-coated.
Layering
- First Layer
Spread half of the turkey and stuffing mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Second Layer
Add a layer of shredded cheddar cheese for an extra creamy texture.
- Final Layer
Spread the remaining turkey and stuffing mixture on top, ensuring even distribution for a balanced dish.
Baking
- Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Optional Sauce
- Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine the turkey gravy, cranberry sauce, and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Heat and Serve
Heat over medium-low heat until warm. Serve drizzled over individual portions of the casserole for an extra burst of flavor.
Serving and Storing
Serving:
- Side Dishes: Pair your Turkey and Stuffing Casserole with a fresh green salad, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or a pinch of paprika for a touch of color and added flavor.
Storing:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Turkey and Stuffing Casserole as much as we do! It's an excellent way to make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers while enjoying a comforting, hearty meal. Don't forget to share your experiences and any variations you try—we'd love to hear from you!
Happy cooking!
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