Ah, the post-holiday dilemma: what to do with all that leftover turkey? It stares you down from the fridge, daring you to get creative—or not.
This Simple and Healthy Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe is like a warm hug for those chilly November nights. Quick to assemble, it’s a comforting dish that turns yesterday’s feast into today’s cozy dinner.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and apply a non-stick spray to a 9×13 baking dish. Spread the cooked turkey pieces evenly on the bottom of the dish.
- Crumble the pre-made bread stuffing over the turkey, ensuring it covers the meat completely. Combine the cream of chicken soup with milk until smooth and then pour this mixture over the turkey and stuffing layers.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 60 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
Ingredients
- 6 cups cooked turkey, cubed or shredded
- 4 cups pre-made bread stuffing
- 2 cans of low sodium cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk (skim milk was used, but any type is fine)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 369kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 63mg | Sodium: 1111mg | Potassium: 319mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 543IU | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 3mg
FAQ
- How long can leftover turkey be safely stored?
- Leftover turkey should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It can be kept in the fridge for three to four days. If you have more than you can consume in that time, freeze it within two hours of cooking and use it within 1 to 2 months.
- Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this casserole recipe?
- Yes, this recipe works well with cooked chicken too. You can use baked chicken or a rotisserie chicken from the store as a substitute for turkey.
- What are some suggested side dishes to serve with Leftover Turkey Casserole?
- Consider serving it with leftover cranberry sauce, homemade apple pie filling, pineapple cherry fluff, tropical fruit cocktail salad, or frozen cranberry salad for a complementary meal.
- What variations can be made to the Turkey Casserole recipe?
- You can use different soups like cream of mushroom or celery instead of cream of chicken. Adding vegetables such as frozen corn, peas, or green beans is also a great option. If you don’t have leftover stuffing, a small box of Stove Top Dressing can be used.
- What are some other recipe ideas for using leftover turkey?
- Leftover turkey can be used in recipes like Turkey a la King, Turkey Chowder with Corn, Homemade Turkey Pot Pie, Turkey Salad Sliders, or Turkey Tetrazzini.
Tips
- Ensure the milk is at room temperature before blending it with the canned soup, as this helps achieve a smoother mixture.
- Consider substituting turkey with chicken or using cream of mushroom or celery soup if you prefer or if that’s what you have available.
- Incorporate vegetables like frozen corn, peas, or green beans, or pre-cook them slightly before adding to the casserole for an added nutritional boost.
- If you have limited leftovers, adjust the recipe by using a smaller dish and one can of soup, or prepare the dish in two containers so you can enjoy one now and freeze the other for later.
Equipment
- Instant Read Thermometer – Useful for ensuring the internal temperature of the casserole reaches a safe level.
- Baking Dish with Lid – A 9×13 baking dish is recommended for this recipe, and having one with a lid is convenient for storing leftovers.
