turkey and dressing casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best turkey and dressing casserole recipe

I’ve been making this turkey and dressing casserole recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish originated from traditional Southern American cuisine, where it was known as ‘dressing’ or ‘stuffing.’

It’s a comforting, homey recipe that warms the heart and fills the belly. The combination of tender turkey, savory herbs, and flaky bread is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

I love how this recipe brings people together, whether it’s for a holiday meal or a casual weeknight dinner. My kids adore it when I serve it with their favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or green beans.

This casserole is also incredibly versatile – you can customize it to suit your tastes by adding or substituting different ingredients. One of the best things about this recipe is its ease of preparation: simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish and let the oven do the rest.

I often make this recipe ahead of time, so I can enjoy a stress-free holiday gathering with my loved ones. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat bread and lean turkey breast.

Turkey and Dressing Casserole

4.6 from 1708 votes

A comforting one-dish meal that combines leftover turkey with savory herb dressing and a creamy sauce. Perfect for using up holiday leftovers or for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
4 cups cubed day-old bread (or cornbread)
1 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup onion, diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg, beaten

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
3In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter.
4Add the celery and onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
5In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, cooked turkey, sautéed celery and onion, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
7In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, sour cream, remaining melted butter, and the beaten egg until smooth and well combined.
8Pour the liquid mixture over the bread and turkey mixture.
9Stir gently until all the bread cubes are coated and the mixture is evenly moistened.
10Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
11Press down lightly with a spatula to compact it slightly.
12Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center.
13A knife inserted into the middle should come out clean.
14Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
15This allows it to firm up and makes serving easier.

🔧Equipment

9×13-inch baking dish
Large mixing bowl
Medium skillet
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

Tips: Use stale or toasted bread for better texture. You can add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or chopped pecans for extra flavor. If you don’t have leftover turkey, rotisserie chicken works well. For a crispier top, broil for the last 2 minutes.

Watch Video Of How Turkey and Dressing Casserole Works

This turkey and dressing casserole recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just need a comforting meal after a long day.

My family loves how versatile this recipe is; we can easily serve it at home or take it to potlucks and gatherings.

One of my favorite things about this dish is how easy it is to reheat – simply pop it in the oven until warm and steaming hot, then serve alongside your favorite sides.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey and Dressing Casserole

Q: What type of bread works best for this casserole?

A: You can use any type of bread you like, but traditional Southern recipes call for cornbread or white bread. For a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free bread or even crackers! Some people also prefer to use leftover dinner rolls or biscuits for added texture.

Q: Can I make this casserole without using any pork products?

A: Absolutely! Simply replace the sausage with an equal amount of ground turkey or beef. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, omit the sausage altogether and add extra herbs and spices for flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover casserole?

A: Cool the casserole completely before refrigerating or freezing it. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to two months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and steaming hot.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes! Prepare the ingredients up to a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready. This allows you to enjoy a stress-free holiday meal without last-minute cooking.

Q: What are some variations on this recipe?

A: Feel free to get creative! Add diced apples or pears for sweetness, or chopped celery for extra crunch. Some people also prefer to use turkey thighs instead of breast meat for added flavor.

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