When the last of the Thanksgiving turkey is sliding off the platter, I often find myself with an abundance of leftovers but no clear plan on how to use them. That’s when inspiration strikes! Imagine transforming a hodgepodge of holiday favorites into a comforting Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole. This dish is not just a way to clean out the fridge; it’s a delicious celebration of flavors and traditions all baked into one cozy dish.
The first time I made this casserole, I was pleasantly surprised by how effortless and quick it was, taking just 35 minutes to create something that tasted gourmet. Layered with juicy turkey, fluffy mashed potatoes, and zesty cranberry sauce, each bite is a perfect blend of savory and sweet. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate whatever leftovers you have lying around—be it green beans, stuffing, or even those last remnants of gravy. So, if you’re tired of the same old fast-food routine and are looking for a way to relish those holiday flavors, join me in the kitchen to whip up this easy and comforting dish that guarantees to impress family and friends alike!
Why is this Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole a must-try?
Unique Flavors: This casserole brilliantly combines all your Thanksgiving favorites, resulting in a unique, comforting dish that everyone will adore.
Effortless Preparation: With a simple assembly, this recipe is a breeze even for busy home cooks.
Versatile Ingredients: Use any leftover veggies or meats you have, making it a flexible option for your fridge cleanout.
Time-Saving: In just 35 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it’s guaranteed to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!
For more creative ways to utilize your holiday leftovers, check out our easy leftover recipes.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole Ingredients
Transform your holiday leftovers into a delightful meal!
For the Casserole
• Cooked turkey – 2 cups, shredded or diced for a hearty base.
• Stuffing or dressing – 2 cups, adding that comforting holiday flavor.
• Mashed potatoes – 1 1/2 cups, creating a creamy layer to soak up the goodness.
• Green beans (or any leftover vegetables) – 1 cup, introducing a pop of color and nutrition.
For the Toppings
• Cranberry sauce – 1 cup, for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory layers in your Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole.
• Gravy – 1/2 cup, drizzled for moisture and richness throughout the dish.
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) – 1/2 cup, offering a melty, decadent finish to your casserole.
• Crispy fried onions – 1/4 cup, sprinkled on top for an irresistible crunch.
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole turns out beautifully without sticking.
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Spread the stuffing evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This acts as the cozy foundation of your casserole, providing that classic, comforting flavor we all love.
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Add shredded turkey over the stuffing. This will be the heart of your Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole, transforming ordinary leftovers into a sumptuous meal.
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Spread mashed potatoes as the next layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. Aim for a nice, even layer that will meld perfectly with the turkey and stuffing underneath.
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Top with green beans or any leftover vegetables on top of the mashed potatoes. This adds a burst of color and nutrition, balancing the flavors wonderfully.
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Drizzle gravy over the entire dish to keep it moist. This luxurious layer ensures that every bite is juicy and rich, reminiscent of holiday feasts.
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Dollop cranberry sauce on top for a sweet and tangy kick. This zingy topping will complement the savory elements beautifully!
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Sprinkle shredded cheese and crispy fried onions for extra flavor and crunch. This final touch creates a delightful melt and a bit of texture on top of your casserole.
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Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps steam the layers below, ensuring everything heats evenly and deliciously.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly golden. This gives your casserole a gorgeous, appetizing look that beckons everyone to the table.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole
Fridge: Store leftover Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months without losing taste.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Avoid Moisture: Ensure the casserole is completely cooled before storing; this helps prevent excess moisture that can make it soggy once reheated.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole Variations
Feel free to explore these fun twists and substitutions to make this casserole truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free stuffing and gravy to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace turkey with sautéed mushrooms or diced butternut squash for an earthy, hearty option that’s sure to satisfy.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an unexpected heat that perfectly contrasts with the creamy elements.
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Creamy Dream: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or sour cream with the mashed potatoes for a richer, velvety texture.
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Cheesy Overload: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles that bring a gourmet touch to your casserole.
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Herb Infusions: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme between layers for a fragrant boost that complements the holiday flavors beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Top with crushed pecans or walnuts instead of crispy fried onions to add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor.
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Fruit Fusion: Add chopped apples or pears to the layers for a sweet surprise that pairs wonderfully with the savory ingredients.
Expert Tips for Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole
• Proper Layering: Ensure each layer is smooth and even; correct layering prevents the casserole from being overly dry or unevenly cooked.
• Use Fresh Leftovers: For the best results, use fresh Thanksgiving leftovers. Older leftovers may not provide the same flavor or texture in your casserole.
• Moisture Control: Drizzle enough gravy throughout; it keeps the Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole moist and prevents it from drying out during baking.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor and a unique twist.
• Crispy Finish: Don’t skip the crispy fried onions; they add necessary crunch and elevate your casserole to a whole new level!
Make Ahead Options
These Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance by assembling all the layers—stuffing, turkey, mashed potatoes, veggies, gravy, cranberry sauce, cheese, and crispy onions—then cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. To maintain quality, avoid adding the crispy fried onions until just before baking to keep them crunchy. When ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole (uncovered) for about 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden. This approach allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without the last-minute stress!
What to Serve with Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole?
Imagine gathering around the table, savoring comforting flavors that remind you of family and togetherness.
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Crispy Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole, balancing the meal perfectly.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, soft breadsticks add a delightful texture and make for excellent dipping into any extra gravy.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slight bitterness of Brussels sprouts beautifully complements the richness of the casserole and adds vibrant color to your plate.
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Sweet Potato Casserole: This sweet counterpart enhances the flavor profile, with its brown sugar and pecan topping bringing out festive holiday vibes.
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Homemade Applesauce: A light, fruity side that’s not only refreshing but also adds a tart sweetness, enhancing the savory elements of your dish.
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Pumpkin Pie: End the meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert, offering a spiced finish that feels like a cozy hug after dinner.
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Cranberry Spritzer: This bubbly, fruity drink adds a festive sparkle while echoing the flavors of the casserole, making every sip feel celebratory.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best turkey for my casserole?
Absolutely! For the tastiest Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole, opt for moist, tender turkey that’s been cooked and seasoned well. Leftover turkey from your holiday feast is perfect! Look for meat that’s not dry or overly seasoned, as it will blend better with the other ingredients in the casserole.
How should I store leftover casserole?
You can store any leftover Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it nice and fresh! Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up to avoid trapping moisture and causing sogginess.
Can I freeze Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole?
Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap your casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) covered for about 20-25 minutes until it’s heated through.
What if my casserole is too dry?
Very commonly, if your casserole comes out dry, it might be due to insufficient gravy or moisture content. To fix this, try drizzling more gravy over the top before reheating, or cover it with foil while baking to help retain moisture. If you find it dry after baking, a simple sauce or extra gravy can help revive it!
Can I use other vegetables instead of green beans?
The more the merrier! You can absolutely switch out the green beans for other leftover veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or even squash. Just ensure they are cooked prior to layering for the best texture in your Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole!
Is this casserole suitable for pets?
While the casserole is delicious for humans, it’s best to keep it out of reach from your pets. Ingredients like onions (found in crispy fried onions) and gravy can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’re looking for a pet-friendly meal, consider making a separate dish with just the turkey and vegetables that are safe for them.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole: A Cozy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the stuffing evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Add shredded turkey over the stuffing.
- Spread mashed potatoes as the next layer.
- Top with green beans or any leftover vegetables.
- Drizzle gravy over the entire dish.
- Dollop cranberry sauce on top.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese and crispy fried onions on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly golden.