When the last bite of Thanksgiving turkey has disappeared, what do you do with the mountains of leftover stuffing and mashed potatoes? If you’re like me, you want to transform those remnants into something exciting rather than let them sit in the fridge until they’re somehow forgotten. Enter the Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole!
This dish is a delightful mash-up of all your holiday favorites, layered together for a comforting one-dish wonder that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Imagine the satisfying crunch of stuffing on top, revealing a creamy layer of turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and cheesy mashed potatoes underneath.
After a hectic holiday, you’ll appreciate how quickly this casserole comes together — it’s ready to pop in the oven in just a few minutes! Not only is it a time-saver, but it also transforms those holiday leftovers into a new family favorite that everyone will love. So, let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that puts a new spin on your Thanksgiving feast!
Why will you love this Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole?
Simplicity: This casserole comes together in just 25 minutes, making cleanup quick and hassle-free after a busy holiday.
Bold flavors: The tangy cranberry sauce and rich cheddar cheese bring a fresh twist to classic leftovers.
One-dish wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans—everything bakes beautifully in one dish!
Versatility: You can easily adapt this recipe with other leftover vegetables or proteins, so the possibilities are endless.
Crowd-pleaser: Your family and friends will rave about this comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
For more creative uses of your leftovers, don’t miss my post on delicious Leftover Turkey Recipes!
Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole Ingredients
• Get ready to transform your leftovers into something amazing!
For the Casserole
- Stuffing – 4 cups, divided – This classic component adds a delightful texture to your Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole.
- Turkey – 4 cups, about 1 pound – Shredded or cubed turkey works perfectly, bringing in that familiar holiday flavor.
- Mayonnaise – ¾ cup, divided – Helps create a creamy base that holds everything together beautifully.
- Cranberry sauce – ¼ cup – Adds a lovely tang that balances the richness of the casserole.
- Mashed potatoes – 2 cups, leftovers – Perfect for layering, they create a creamy underbelly that everyone will love.
- Cheddar cheese – 1 ½ cups, shredded – Adds a melty, gooey goodness that ties all the flavors together.
For Topping
- Remaining stuffing – The last bit of stuffing adds a golden, crispy topping that’s irresistible!
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 375°F and generously spray an 8-inch baking dish with no-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step ensures your casserole comes out perfectly partway through baking!
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Layer half of the stuffing in the prepared dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom to form a savory base. This will provide a wonderful texture as it bakes alongside the other ingredients.
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Top the stuffing with all of your turkey, spreading it out gently. This layer adds that familiar Thanksgiving flavor to every bite, making it the star of this casserole.
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Mix ¼ cup of mayonnaise with the cranberry sauce in a small bowl, then spread this mixture evenly over the turkey. The blend of creamy mayo and tangy cranberry brings new life to your leftovers!
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Combine the remaining ½ cup of mayo with the mashed potatoes and shredded cheese in another bowl, then spread this delightful mixture over the cranberry sauce layer, creating a hearty layer that everyone will love.
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Finish by topping with the remaining stuffing, sprinkling it evenly to create a beautiful, crispy upper layer that will be golden when baked.
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Bake the casserole for 25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the top is golden brown and crisp. This is when the magic really happens!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for an aromatic touch before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the flavors and prevents drying out.
Freezer: You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or transfer to a freezer-safe container for best results.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake in a 350°F oven until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the casserole out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole Variations
Feel free to make this casserole uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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Vegetarian Twist: Substitute turkey with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty veggie-filled version that everyone will adore.
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Spicy Option: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mayo and cranberry mixture for a fiery kick that awakens the taste buds.
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Herbed Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the stuffing for an aromatic infusion of flavors that elevate the entire dish.
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Cream Cheese Add-in: Swap out half of the mayonnaise for cream cheese, which will create an extra creamy layer that melts in every bite.
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Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed French fried onions or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking for an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
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Sweet Potato Variation: Replace mashed potatoes with sweet potatoes for a delightful, slightly sweet embrace that pairs beautifully with the turkey and cranberry.
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Italian Flair: Incorporate a layer of marinara sauce between the turkey and the mayo mixture for a comforting lasagna-inspired twist that’s sure to surprise!
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Breakfast Casserole: Use leftover holiday stuffing and turkey as a base for a brunch version—add scrambled eggs and bake until set for a delightful morning feast!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole?
To create a wholesome dining experience, complement your casserole with a variety of sides and drinks that enhance its flavors.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the casserole. The vibrant colors will brighten your plate!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These tender yet slightly caramelized sprouts bring a delicious earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory notes in the casserole. Sprinkling them with a bit of balsamic glaze takes them to the next level.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks add a comforting touch and are perfect for mopping up every last bit of that cheesy goodness. Plus, who can resist garlic-infused bread!
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Cranberry-Apple Relish: This fruity, tangy condiment elevates the dish with an extra layer of flavor, marrying perfectly with the casserole’s texture. It’s like a mini celebration on your plate!
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Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy slaw brings a delightful crunch to the table, offering a nice contrast to the warm casserole. The sweetness of the slaw complements the tang of the cranberry sauce.
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White Wine or Sparkling Cider: For beverages, a chilled white wine or sparkling cider enhances the meal’s festive vibe while refreshing your palate between bites. These choices add a sophisticated touch without overwhelming the flavors.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a classic pumpkin pie is a sweet finish that echoes the flavors of Thanksgiving, wrapping up your meal on a delightful note. The spices will have everyone reminiscing about the holiday!
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole
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Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, good-quality leftovers for the best results. Stale stuffing or old turkey can lead to unappetizing flavors.
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Layering Matters: Ensure even layering of ingredients to create a harmonious blend of flavors. This way, every bite has a bit of everything.
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Moisture Check: If your turkey is on the dry side, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
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Crispy Top: For an ultra-crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes for a delightful crunch without drying it out.
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Serving Tips: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving; it helps everything set up and makes slicing easier.
Don’t forget, with the right adjustments, your Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole can be a fresh and exciting meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. Simply layer the stuffing, turkey, mayo with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and cheese as directed. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it into the oven. This will ensure it heats evenly and tastes just as delicious as when freshly made! Enjoy restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort, all while making your meal planning smoother.
Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole Recipe FAQs
What type of stuffing should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! You can use any stuffing you have on hand, whether it’s homemade or store-bought. Just make sure it’s not too dry, as it’s meant to provide a base that complements the turkey and other ingredients. If your stuffing is stale, you might want to freshen it up with a sprinkle of chicken broth before layering.
How long can I store the Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole?
This casserole will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Ensure it’s cooled down to room temperature before sealing to maintain the best flavors. To keep it fresh and safe, it’s crucial to store it properly!
Can I freeze leftover casserole?
Certainly! You can freeze your Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole for up to 3 months. To do this effectively, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Be sure to label it with the date so you won’t forget about it in your freezer!
What’s the best way to reheat the casserole after freezing?
To reheat, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy it, preheat your oven to 350°F and place the casserole in a baking dish. Cover it with foil to prevent drying and bake until heated through, usually about 25-30 minutes. If it seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth before reheating for added moisture.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian-friendly?
Very much! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the turkey and replace it with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. You can also add some chickpeas for added protein. Just keep in mind that if you use vegetarian stuffing, double-check the ingredients to ensure they align with your dietary preferences.
What if my leftovers are starting to smell or look off?
Great question! If you notice any off-putting odors or visual signs like dark spots or mold, it’s best to err on the side of caution—simply discard the leftovers. Always trust your senses; fresh ingredients make for the best comfort foods!
Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole: Comfort Food in 25 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and generously spray an 8-inch baking dish with no-stick cooking spray.
- Layer half of the stuffing in the prepared dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Top the stuffing with all of your turkey, spreading it out gently.
- Mix ¼ cup of mayonnaise with the cranberry sauce in a small bowl, then spread this mixture evenly over the turkey.
- Combine the remaining ½ cup of mayo with the mashed potatoes and shredded cheese, then spread this delightful mixture over the cranberry sauce layer.
- Finish by topping with the remaining stuffing, sprinkling it evenly.
- Bake the casserole for 25 minutes, or until it's heated through and the top is golden brown and crisp.