Transform Your Thanksgiving Leftovers with Our Delicious Leftovers Casserole Recipe
Are you tired of eating the same old Thanksgiving leftovers day after day? Say goodbye to boring turkey sandwiches and hello to our mouthwatering Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole! This hearty and flavorful dish is the perfect way to reinvent your leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables into a brand-new meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re hosting family and friends for a post-Thanksgiving feast or simply looking for a creative way to use up your leftovers, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Join us as we share our recipe, along with some helpful tips, variations, and keto-friendly options to suit your dietary preferences.
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 4 cups Roasted turkey (leftover)
Produce:
- 3 cups Mashed potatoes (leftover)
- 2 cups Cooked vegetables (such as green beans, carrots, or corn)
Canned Goods:
- 3 cups Stuffing (leftover)
Condiments:
- 3/4 cup Mayonnaise
Baking & Spices:
- 1/8 tsp Ground paprika
Oils & Vinegars:
- Cooking spray
Dairy:
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread the leftover mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth layer.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Arrange the cooked vegetables over the mashed potatoes, covering them evenly.
- Top with Turkey:
- Layer the leftover roasted turkey on top of the vegetables, distributing it evenly across the dish.
- Spread the Stuffing:
- Spoon the leftover stuffing over the turkey, covering it completely.
- Season with Paprika:
- Sprinkle the ground paprika over the top of the casserole for added flavor and color.
- Spread Mayonnaise:
- Evenly spread the mayonnaise over the top of the casserole, using a spatula to smooth it out.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mayonnaise layer, covering the entire surface.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve Warm:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving leftovers creation!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize with Your Favorite Vegetables: Feel free to use any leftover cooked vegetables you have on hand, such as green beans, carrots, peas, or corn.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: For a touch of sweetness, serve the casserole with a dollop of leftover cranberry sauce on the side.
- Make it Spicy: Add a kick of heat by mixing some hot sauce or diced jalapenos into the mayonnaise layer before baking.
- Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Swiss, mozzarella, or pepper jack, for unique flavor variations.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and follow the baking instructions as directed.
Q: Can I make a keto-friendly version of this casserole?
A: Absolutely! To make a keto-friendly version, omit the mashed potatoes and stuffing layers, and replace them with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower mash and keto-friendly bread cubes. You can also use a keto-friendly mayonnaise and cheese.
Q: Can I add gravy to this casserole?
A: Yes, you can drizzle leftover gravy over the casserole before serving or serve it on the side for dipping.
Say goodbye to boring Thanksgiving leftovers with our delicious Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole recipe! This hearty and comforting dish is a fantastic way to transform your leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and vegetables into a whole new meal that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. So gather up those leftovers and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying!