Leftover Holiday Turkey Casserole

When the big feast is over and your fridge is filled with leftover turkey, there’s no better way to bring it all together than this Leftover Holiday Turkey Casserole. It’s cozy, creamy, and the kind of comforting dish that makes the most of your holiday favorites — all baked together in one delicious pan.

This recipe turns your leftovers into a hearty, homestyle meal that’s perfect for family dinners, lazy weekends, or those chilly post-holiday evenings when you want something warm and satisfying without much fuss.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 2 cups cooked vegetables (like green beans, peas, or carrots)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 cup cooked stuffing or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the dish)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix the base:
   In a large bowl, combine the soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the turkey and veggies:
   Stir in the cooked turkey and vegetables. Add ¾ cup of shredded cheese and mix until everything is well coated.
4. Assemble the casserole:
   Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Top with remaining cheese and, if desired, a layer of stuffing or breadcrumbs for that golden, crispy finish.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
6. Serve:
   Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Scoop into generous portions and enjoy the cozy comfort of holiday leftovers made new.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• No soup? Make your own quick sauce with butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth.
• Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake the next day.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Texture tip: Add a handful of crushed crackers or fried onions on top for extra crunch.

Recipe Variations

• Turkey swap: Use cooked chicken ,or even rotisserie chicken.
• Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and low-fat cheese.
• Veggie lovers: Add spinach, mushrooms, or corn for extra color and flavor.
• Spice it up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for a little holiday heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts for balance.
• Pair it with cranberry sauce on the side for that nostalgic holiday flavor.
• Add a slice of crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up the creamy goodness.

Conclusion

This Leftover Holiday Turkey Casserole is proof that leftovers can be just as special as the main feast. With creamy sauce, melted cheese, and tender turkey, it’s the ultimate comfort food to enjoy with family by the fire — one last taste of the holidays before moving into a cozy new season.