As the holidays come to a close, many of us are left with a surplus of leftover turkey. While it’s delicious on its own or in sandwiches, there’s only so much you can eat before you start to crave something new and exciting. That’s where creative casseroles come in! With a little bit of creativity and some staple pantry ingredients, you can turn last week’s dinner into this week’s masterpiece.
From classic combinations like turkey and stuffing to more adventurous pairings like turkey and sweet potato, we’ve rounded up 17 mouth-watering leftover turkey casserole recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a quick and easy solution for a weeknight dinner, these casseroles have got you covered.
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of turkey with the creaminess of cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy rice.
Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 1 pound cooked turkey, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 3 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add the diced turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, turkey mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole: A Twist on Classic Comfort Food
This creamy, cheesy casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey, mushrooms, and spinach to create a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and flour in butter until golden.
3. Add turkey, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and spinach. Stir until combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southwestern Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
Southwestern Turkey and Cornbread Casserole: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish
This casserole combines the comforting flavors of turkey, cornbread, and spices with the bold tastes of Southwestern cuisine. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook turkey, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the turkey is fully cooked.
3. Add corn kernels, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions and press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spoon the turkey mixture over the cornbread and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey with savory stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups homemade stuffing mix (or store-bought)
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen green beans, thawed
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, stuffing mix, mashed potatoes, melted butter, green beans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese (if using) on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender turkey, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy sauce with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground turkey in a skillet until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. In a separate pan, sauté mushrooms and onion until tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked turkey, mushroom mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and thyme in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs. Dot with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and savory spices, making it a perfect dish for a cold winter’s night. With its comforting aroma and delicious taste, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the sliced sweet potatoes and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Combine the cooked turkey, peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer the sweet potato mixture, turkey mixture, and shredded cheese in the prepared dish.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the flavors of turkey, broccoli, and alfredo sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups steamed broccoli florets
– 1 cup alfredo sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey, broccoli, alfredo sauce, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of turkey, wild rice, and vegetables in a creamy sauce, perfect for a chilly evening or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, wild rice, peas and carrots, onion, and garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk, and thyme. Pour over turkey mixture; stir until combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Green Bean Casserole
This classic casserole combines the flavors of turkey, green beans, and creamy sauce, making it a perfect comfort food dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey, diced
– 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup French-fried onions
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked turkey, green bean mixture, and soup mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle French-fried onions and cheddar cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Biscuit Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch. This recipe combines the warmth of turkey, biscuits, and vegetables in a satisfying one-dish meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 can of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups biscuit mix
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, mixed vegetables, milk, butter, cream of chicken soup, and thyme.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle biscuit mix evenly over the top.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the biscuits.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Casserole
This savory and sweet casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey with tart cranberries, creamy mashed potatoes, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a cozy Thanksgiving dinner or a delicious leftover meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced turkey, cranberries, mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, and parsley.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of turkey, spinach, and lasagna noodles for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lasagna noodles, turkey mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Macaroni Casserole
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey, pasta, and cheese for a satisfying casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its creamy sauce and crunchy topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and corn)
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine turkey, mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the skillet and stir until coated with the turkey mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Corn Casserole
This classic casserole combines the flavors of turkey, corn, and creamy sauce for a satisfying and easy-to-make side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers or croutons (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, corn, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Add melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir until combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with crushed crackers or croutons (if using).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Potato Casserole
This classic casserole combines tender turkey, fluffy potatoes, and creamy sauce for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook turkey in a skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey, chopped onion, garlic, cream of chicken soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of potatoes, followed by the turkey mixture, and top with shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Pea Casserole
This comforting casserole is a delicious way to use up leftover turkey or roast a fresh one just for the occasion. A blend of savory turkey, tender peas, and creamy sauce makes it a satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add turkey, peas, milk, soup, and thyme. Stir until heated through.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Carrot Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this Turkey and Carrot Casserole is a twist on the classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey and chopped onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Stir in grated carrots, frozen peas and carrots, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Conclusion
Get creative with your leftover turkey and transform it into 17 delicious casserole dishes. From classic comfort food to international-inspired twists, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try making a Cheesy Turkey and Rice Casserole or a Southwestern Turkey and Cornbread Casserole for a flavorful fusion of flavors. Or go traditional with a Turkey and Stuffing Casserole or a Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Casserole. Whatever your taste, there’s a leftover turkey casserole recipe to match.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
