Ingredients

• Cooking spray (for greasing the pan)
• 3 cups leftover stuffing
• 4 cups chopped leftover roasted turkey
• 2 cups leftover cooked vegetables (e.g., carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts)
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• ⅛ teaspoon ground paprika

Steps to Make It

Preparation:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick during baking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, chopped turkey, and leftover cooked vegetables. Add in the mayonnaise and stir until all the ingredients are well coated and mixed together. The mayonnaise helps to bind everything and adds a creamy texture to the casserole.
3. Layer the Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the turkey mixture in the baking dish. Smooth the potatoes into an even layer with a spatula. The mashed potatoes will serve as a delicious, creamy layer on top of the casserole.
4. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes. This will melt and create a cheesy, golden top during baking.
5. Season and Bake: Sprinkle the paprika over the cheese to add a touch of color and a hint of smokiness. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the casserole is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and enjoy your easy, comforting meal made entirely from leftovers!

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

35 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

Servings:

6-8 servings

Calories Per Serving:

Approximately 350-400 kcal per serving (depending on the amount of mayonnaise and cheese used)

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole is a perfect example of how resourceful cooking can turn simple leftovers into a whole new meal. After a large feast like Thanksgiving, many people find themselves with an abundance of leftover food, and rather than throwing it away or eating the same meal again and again, this casserole offers an easy, creative way to reinvent your leftovers.

This dish brings together all the classic flavors that make Thanksgiving so special—savory turkey, flavorful stuffing, mashed potatoes, and a variety of vegetables—into one easy-to-make casserole. By layering these ingredients, you create a meal that captures the essence of Thanksgiving while adding a comforting, cheesy twist. The result is a dish that feels like a fresh, new creation even though it’s made from yesterday’s leftovers.

What makes this recipe timeless is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have left over in your fridge—whether it’s extra cranberry sauce, more vegetables, or a different kind of cheese. This flexibility makes it a dish that works well beyond Thanksgiving, providing a great option for other holiday feasts, family gatherings, or any time you need a quick, hearty meal using what you already have. It’s also an ideal dish for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and can be enjoyed over multiple days.

Not only does this casserole help you avoid food waste, but it also creates a warm, comforting meal that will satisfy your entire family. Plus, it’s a dish that’s easy to assemble and requires minimal cooking effort—perfect for when you’re craving something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s the day after Thanksgiving or a random winter evening, this casserole will bring comfort and joy to your table.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fiber: 4 g

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked turkey in this casserole. Simply cook the turkey first (roasted, grilled, or sautéed) and chop it into small pieces. This recipe is flexible and can accommodate freshly prepared turkey just as well as leftovers.

2. What other vegetables can I use?
You can use any leftover vegetables you have on hand. Some great options include green beans, peas, corn, Brussels sprouts, or even sweet potatoes. Feel free to get creative based on what’s in your fridge!

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven. It may require an extra few minutes of baking if it’s cold from the fridge, so keep an eye on it.

4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling it, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, or you can bake it from frozen, though it will take a bit longer.

Tips for Success

1. Adjust the seasoning: Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning of the casserole as you go. Depending on how seasoned your leftovers are, you might need to add extra salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavor.
2. Customize the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar is the classic choice, but you could also use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
3. Make it a one-pan meal: This casserole is already a well-rounded meal, but if you’d like to make it even heartier, you could add some cooked quinoa, rice, or even a handful of leafy greens to boost the nutrition.
4. For extra crispy topping: If you like your cheese topping extra crispy, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Be sure to keep an eye on it, as broiling can cause it to burn quickly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
• Freezing: For longer storage, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.

Conclusion

The Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your holiday leftovers while creating a satisfying, hearty meal for the whole family. Whether you’re dealing with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, or vegetables, this casserole combines them into a flavorful dish that’s both comforting and versatile. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something easy yet delicious, and it makes a great meal prep option for the days following a big holiday feast. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to reduce food waste and make sure that none of your Thanksgiving bounty goes to waste.

Not only is this casserole a great way to use leftovers, but it’s also a timeless dish that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food any time of year. The layers of turkey, vegetables, mashed potatoes, and melted cheese come together in a deliciously creamy, cheesy dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Try it next time you have leftovers, or make it a tradition to enjoy after every holiday meal—either way, it’s a recipe that’s sure to stand the test of time.