Thanksgiving is all about gathering with loved ones and sharing memorable dishes, and that’s where potluck Thanksgiving meals really shine! I remember my family’s annual Thanksgiving potluck, where everyone would bring their favorite dish, and the table would overflow with flavors and aromas. One dish that always steals the show is this savory turkey casserole. It’s packed with tender turkey, fresh green beans, and creamy goodness, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday spread. Trust me, this casserole not only warms the heart but also makes for easy serving and happy faces around the table. So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this potluck Thanksgiving dish is sure to impress and become a beloved staple in your holiday traditions!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded (leftover turkey works best!)
- 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen will do)
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (don’t skimp on the creaminess!)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to use sharp for more flavor)
- 1 cup packed breadcrumbs (for that perfect golden topping)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (because garlic makes everything better)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (adds a nice depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t forget to season it well!)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that golden, bubbly top!
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, chopped green beans, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is mixed well! You want every bite to be packed with flavor.
- Once your mixture is nice and combined, transfer it into a baking dish. I like to use a 9×13 inch dish for this, but anything similar will work just fine.
- Now for the fun part—top your turkey mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese and then sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese. This will give you that delicious crispy layer that everyone loves!
- Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Just try to resist peeking too much—it smells divine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can get this dish ready to pop in the oven, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This savory turkey casserole is always a hit at potluck Thanksgiving gatherings—everyone loves a hearty, comforting dish!
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole in advance, saving you stress on the big day. Just reheat it, and you’re good to go!
- Versatile: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or swap out the cheese—it’s adaptable to suit any taste!
- Leftover Friendly: A fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, this casserole ensures nothing goes to waste while still tasting amazing.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my best tips to ensure your savory turkey casserole turns out absolutely perfect for your potluck Thanksgiving!
- Use Leftover Turkey: Trust me, using leftover turkey not only enhances the flavor but also makes this dish feel extra special. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid food waste!
- Vegetable Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix it up! You can add in other veggies like corn, peas, or even diced carrots for extra color and nutrients. Just make sure they’re chopped small for even cooking.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyère or mozzarella could add a delightful twist to the flavor profile.
- Breadcrumb Tips: For an extra crunchy topping, mix some melted butter into your breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on top. It adds a lovely richness that everyone will love!
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your casserole in the oven! Overbaking can dry it out. Aim for that golden brown top and bubbly edges for the best results.
With these tips in mind, you’re all set to wow your friends and family with this delicious dish! Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this savory turkey casserole is how easily it can be customized! Here are a few fun variations to inspire your creativity:
- Veggie Medley: Swap out the green beans for other veggies like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers. Just chop them up and mix them in—it’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrition!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the turkey mixture. It’ll add a delightful zing that will surprise your guests!
- Herbed Delight: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley. Just a tablespoon or two can elevate the dish to a whole new level.
- Cheese Swap: While cheddar is a classic, try using a mix of cheeses like pepper jack for a little spice, or even a creamy goat cheese for a rich twist. The cheesier, the better, right?
- Grain Boost: For a heartier version, consider adding cooked quinoa or rice into the mix. It’ll make the casserole even more filling and add a lovely texture!
Feel free to get creative with your additions based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love. The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about making it your own!
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the deliciousness, just a little heads up: nutritional values can vary based on the brands and exact ingredients you use, so consider these figures as estimates. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect per serving (1 cup) of this savory turkey casserole:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 15g
This casserole not only provides a comforting meal but also packs a good amount of protein while keeping things relatively low in fat! Enjoy it guilt-free as part of your potluck Thanksgiving feast!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this savory turkey casserole at your potluck Thanksgiving, it’s all about creating a well-rounded feast that delights everyone’s taste buds! Here are some perfect pairings to elevate your dining experience:
- Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce perfectly complements the richness of the casserole, adding a burst of flavor that brightens the plate.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are always a hit and they make a comforting side that your guests will love alongside the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes not only adds color but also brings a delicious sweetness that balances the savory dish.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast and help cut through the richness of the casserole.
- Stuffing: You can’t go wrong with classic stuffing! It’s another Thanksgiving staple that pairs beautifully with the turkey casserole.
These sides not only enhance the meal but also create a festive atmosphere, making your potluck Thanksgiving gathering even more memorable. Enjoy the flavors and the company!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers of your savory turkey casserole just as tasty as when it first came out of the oven! Proper storage and reheating can make all the difference.
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days—perfect for those post-Thanksgiving cravings!
- Freezing: If you want to enjoy it later, this casserole freezes beautifully! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil to keep it moist, and heat for about 20-25 minutes. If it’s frozen, you may need to add a bit more time, so keep an eye on it. The goal is for it to be heated through and bubbly!
- Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it (to prevent splatters), and heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be cautious, as it can get hot quickly!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your savory turkey casserole long after the potluck Thanksgiving is over. Happy feasting!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! If you don’t have turkey on hand, shredded chicken works just as well. It’ll still give you that hearty feel for your potluck Thanksgiving dish.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and chicken broth. It’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, for a vegetarian version, just skip the turkey and add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or even some tofu for protein. The cream of mushroom soup will still keep it creamy and satisfying!
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know your casserole is ready when it’s golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges. If you insert a knife in the center, it should come out hot!
Can I prepare this dish a day in advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the day before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve. It’s a great way to save time on the big day!
Potluck Thanksgiving: 5 Heartwarming Casserole Recipes
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 8 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Gras
Description
A savory dish perfect for Thanksgiving potlucks.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix turkey, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey for best flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- Can be made ahead and reheated.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 450mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 4g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 6g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 30g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 15g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 60mg
Mots-clés: potluck thanksgiving, turkey casserole, holiday dish
