I’m so glad you’re here to try out my leftover turkey casserole recipe! It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to repurpose their Thanksgiving or holiday meal leftovers.
I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The combination of tender turkey, creamy sauce, and crunchy vegetables is just perfect.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to your liking with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. I like to think of it as a comforting hug in a casserole dish.
My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen. We always have so much fun making this recipe together as a family.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this leftover turkey casserole is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part?
It’s healthier than you might think, thanks to all the veggies and lean protein from the turkey. So go ahead, give it a try, and see why this recipe has become a staple in our household.
Creamy Turkey and Rice Casserole
4.8 from 1672 votes
A comforting casserole that transforms leftover turkey into a creamy, satisfying meal. Layers of tender turkey, fluffy rice, and a savory sauce are baked until golden and bubbly.
2Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
3In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the diced onion for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
4Remove from heat and set aside.
5In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, thawed peas and carrots, cooked onion, garlic powder, thyme, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
6Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
8Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
9In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until well coated.
10Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
11Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the filling is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
For a lighter version, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese. You can also substitute leftover cooked chicken if you don’t have turkey.
This leftover turkey casserole is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special holiday gathering. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
I like to store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months. When reheating, I simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
My family loves serving this dish with some crusty bread on the side – perfect for sopping up all that delicious sauce!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Turkey and Rice Casserole
Q: What type of turkey should I use for this recipe?
A: You can use any type of turkey you like, whether it’s white meat, dark meat, or a combination of both. Just be sure to shred or chop it up into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the casserole.
Q: Can I use store-bought gravy instead of making my own?
A: While store-bought gravy will do in a pinch, I highly recommend taking the time to make your own homemade gravy from scratch. It’s worth the extra effort, trust me!
Q: How long does this casserole stay fresh in the fridge?
A: This casserole will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer. Just be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Q: Can I make this recipe without using cream of chicken soup?
A: Yes, you can substitute cream of chicken soup with an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
A: Unfortunately not – the original recipe includes chicken broth and shredded cheddar cheese which are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
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