Thanksgiving Casserole Leftovers: 5 Cozy Comforts Await

Name: Thanksgiving Casserole Leftovers: 5 Cozy Comforts Await
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1 cup corn, frozen or canned; 2 cups mashed potatoes; 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

novembre 10, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh, let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the magic of transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into a cozy casserole! After a day filled with turkey and all the trimmings, I love to take what’s left and whip up something new and exciting. Seriously, it’s like giving those leftovers a second chance at glory! This casserole is such a comforting dish, packed with shredded turkey, colorful veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes all baked to perfection. You won’t believe how easy it is to throw together, and it’ll make your kitchen smell divine! Plus, it’s the ultimate way to keep the holiday spirit alive long after the feasting is over. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you as you dig into this delicious creation!

Ingredients for Thanksgiving Casserole Leftovers

Gathering the ingredients for this cozy casserole is half the fun! Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this delicious dish to life:

2 cups cooked turkey, shredded: Any leftover turkey works perfectly here. If you have more, don’t hesitate to toss it in!
1 cup green beans, chopped: Fresh, frozen, or even canned—whatever you have on hand will do just fine. They add a nice crunch!
1 cup corn, frozen or canned: Sweet corn brings a lovely burst of flavor to the mix. If using frozen, just make sure to thaw it first.
2 cups mashed potatoes: Leftover mashed potatoes are best, but if you need to whip up a quick batch, go for it! Creamy potatoes are the star of the show.
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: I love a good sharp cheddar for that extra flavor kick, but feel free to use your favorite cheese!
1 cup cream of mushroom soup: This is the magic glue that holds everything together, adding creaminess and flavor. You can use homemade or store-bought.
1/2 cup milk: Just regular milk is perfect here to thin out the soup a bit. You can also use chicken broth if you want more flavor!
1 teaspoon garlic powder: For that aromatic goodness! You can adjust this if you like it garlicky.
1 teaspoon onion powder: It pairs so well with the turkey and veggies—don’t skip it!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste your mixture before baking! A little seasoning goes a long way.

And there you have it! Simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to make one fantastic casserole. You’ll want to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start mixing, so let’s get to it!

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Casserole Leftovers

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s as easy as pie—well, easier, actually! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a warm, delicious casserole in no time.

Preheat Your Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because you want that casserole to start cooking evenly right from the get-go! Trust me, a well-preheated oven makes all the difference—nobody likes a soggy casserole!

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, chopped green beans, corn, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Oh, and don’t forget the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper! I love using my hands (clean, of course!) to really get in there and mix everything well. You want every bite to be packed with flavor, so make sure it’s all combined nicely!

Prepare the Baking Dish

Now, grab your favorite baking dish—something around 9×13 inches works great! Lightly grease it with a bit of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Then, spread your turkey and veggie mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish. Just make sure it’s nice and flat so it cooks evenly. This is where you’ll see all your hard work starting to pay off!

Layer the Mashed Potatoes

Next up, it’s time to layer those creamy mashed potatoes on top! Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread them out evenly over the turkey mixture. You want a nice, even layer so every scoop gets that delicious potato goodness. Don’t stress if it’s not perfect—rustic is totally in!

Add Cheese and Bake

Last but not least, sprinkle that lovely cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes. I like to add a little extra for good measure because who doesn’t love ooey-gooey cheese? Now, pop the dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden, and your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly! Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in—trust me, your mouth will thank you for that!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this casserole in no time—perfect for those busy days after Thanksgiving!
Utilizes Leftovers: This recipe gives your holiday leftovers a delicious new life, turning what might go to waste into something extraordinary!
Comforting and Satisfying: There’s something so warm and inviting about a cozy casserole, especially when it’s packed with all those familiar holiday flavors.
Customizable: Feel free to throw in any leftover veggies you have—this dish is all about using what you’ve got to create something special!

Tips for Success

Want to take your Thanksgiving casserole leftovers to the next level? I’ve got some tips that’ll help you nail this dish every time! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference in flavor and presentation.

Get Creative with Veggies: Don’t hesitate to swap in any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Brussels sprouts, peas, or even roasted carrots can add a delightful twist!
Cheese Lovers Unite: If you’re a cheese fanatic like me, feel free to mix different types of cheese! A blend of mozzarella and gouda can create a wonderful melty texture.
Herbs and Spices: For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle in some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley before baking. They add a pop of freshness that complements the richness of the casserole.
Make it Ahead: If you want to save time, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge!
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier casserole, add an extra splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream to the turkey mixture. It’ll make each bite even more luscious!
Leftover Gravy: If you have any leftover gravy from Thanksgiving, drizzle a bit over the turkey mixture before adding the mashed potatoes for added flavor and moisture.

With these tips, you’ll be creating a Thanksgiving casserole that’s not only delicious but also uniquely yours. Have fun experimenting, and enjoy every bite of this comforting dish!

Nutritional Information

This section provides estimated nutritional values based on the typical ingredients used in this Thanksgiving casserole leftovers recipe. As with any dish, the actual numbers may vary slightly depending on specific brands and preparation methods. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (1 cup):

Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg

So, not only is this casserole a comforting crowd-pleaser, but it’s also packed with protein and a good balance of nutrients. Enjoy this delicious way to fuel your holiday spirit while savoring those tasty leftovers!

FAQ Section

Got questions about Thanksgiving casserole leftovers? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get, along with my go-to answers:

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes wonderfully. Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I reheat leftovers?

To reheat, simply Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the casserole with foil, and warm it for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you like a crispy top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes. You can also use the microwave, but the oven gives a better texture!

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

No problem! If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or even make a homemade white sauce. Just combine butter, flour, and milk in a saucepan until thick, and voila! You’ve got a perfect replacement.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Definitely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack can add a fun twist to the flavor. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently, so choose what you love best!

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?

You can store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before enjoying it again!

There you go! I hope these answers help make your Thanksgiving casserole leftovers experience even better. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need tips!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve whipped up this delicious Thanksgiving casserole leftovers, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal! I love pairing it with a few simple sides that complement the rich, comforting flavors of the casserole.

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole. The crunch and acidity really balance things out!
Cranberry Sauce: Don’t forget about that tangy cranberry sauce! Whether it’s homemade or from a can, it brings a burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies—like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes—adds color and nutrients to your plate. Plus, the caramelization makes them extra delicious!
Garlic Bread: For a cozy touch, serve some warm garlic bread on the side. The buttery, garlicky goodness is perfect for scooping up every last bit of that cheesy casserole!
Stuffing: If you’ve got some leftover stuffing, it’s a fantastic sidekick! The flavors meld beautifully, and who can resist stuffing, right?

These sides not only enhance the meal but also keep that Thanksgiving spirit alive. Enjoy the cozy vibes, and let the leftovers shine in all their glory!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.