Turkey & Stuffing Casserole (Thanksgiving-Inspired)

This Thanksgiving-inspired casserole brings together tender turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy layers for a comforting one-dish meal. It’s perfect for using up leftover turkey or creating a cozy holiday-inspired dinner without the stress of a full roast. Warm, hearty, and full of flavor, it’s a dish that combines all the best parts of Thanksgiving in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole captures the essence of Thanksgiving in a simple, easy-to-make dish. It’s perfect for families, busy weeknights, or potluck gatherings. You get all the classic flavors herbed turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s comforting, filling, and versatile enough to please kids and adults alike.

• One-dish convenience with minimal cleanup.
• Great for using leftover turkey.
• Packed with classic Thanksgiving flavors.
• Kid-friendly and family-approved.

Nutritional Information

Though indulgent, this casserole can be made balanced and wholesome. Turkey provides lean protein, stuffing adds fiber-rich bread and veggies, and any added vegetables boost nutrients. Portion-controlled servings make it satisfying without being overly heavy.

• Calories: ~350 per serving
• Protein: 28g
• Carbs: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Vitamins: Good source of vitamin A and iron

Time Breakdown

Despite containing multiple components, this casserole is efficient to prepare. With simple assembly and a single baking step, you can have a full, comforting meal in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, leftover turkey, or any occasion when you want a stress-free, hearty dinner.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Total Time: 55–60 minutes

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity just a handful of common ingredients come together to create a flavorful, festive dish. Turkey, stuffing, vegetables, gravy, and cheese (optional) combine to deliver classic holiday flavors. Most items can be store-bought or homemade, making this recipe flexible and approachable for any cook.

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
• 3 cups prepared stuffing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or corn)
• 1 cup chicken or turkey gravy
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish

Condensed Grocery Checklist

Shopping for this casserole is simple because it relies on basic, easy-to-find ingredients. A few staple proteins, vegetables, and pantry items are all you need. Optional cheese and fresh herbs can enhance flavor and presentation, but the core ingredients alone make a delicious, comforting dish.

• Turkey (cooked or leftover)
• Stuffing
• Mixed vegetables
• Gravy
• Cheese
• Butter
• Herbs and seasonings

How to Make – Step by Step

Making this casserole is straightforward and approachable for cooks of all skill levels. It’s a matter of layering the turkey, vegetables, and stuffing, then baking with gravy for a warm, cohesive meal. Even with multiple components, the steps are simple, ensuring a delicious dish every time with minimal stress.

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer shredded turkey evenly in the dish.
3. Spread mixed vegetables over the turkey.
4. Pour prepared stuffing on top, pressing gently.
5. Drizzle gravy evenly over the stuffing.
6. Sprinkle cheese on top and drizzle melted butter.
7. Bake for 35–40 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted and golden.
8. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

This casserole is flexible enough to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences. You can use leftover chicken instead of turkey, swap in gluten-free stuffing, or add other seasonal vegetables for variety. Optional toppings like cheese or cranberries allow you to personalize the dish while keeping it festive and flavorful.

• Use leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of turkey.
• Add cranberries or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Substitute gluten-free stuffing for a GF version.
• Mix in mashed sweet potatoes for a creamy layer.

Serving Suggestions

Turkey & Stuffing Casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or cranberry sauce for a complete meal. It’s also great in individual portions for gatherings, making it a versatile dish for both casual and festive occasions.

• Serve with a green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Add cranberry sauce or gravy on the side.
• Offer dinner rolls for extra comfort.
• Make mini individual portions for parties or potlucks.

Storing Tips

Leftovers from this casserole are easy to store and reheat. It keeps well in the fridge for a few days and can be reheated in the oven for a fresh, comforting meal. Freezing is also an option, though cheese toppings should be added after thawing. Proper storage ensures flavor and texture remain intact for multiple servings.

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
• Freeze in portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before baking.
• Cover casserole while reheating to maintain moisture.

Chef’s Special Tips

A few simple techniques elevate this dish from basic to exceptional. Searing the turkey beforehand adds depth of flavor, while allowing the casserole to rest after baking makes it easier to serve. Don’t overpack the stuffing, and garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant, professional presentation. These small touches make a big difference in taste and appearance.

• Use high-quality gravy or make your own for the best flavor.
• Don’t overpack the stuffing; it expands slightly while baking.
• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
• Garnish with fresh herbs to add color and brightness.

Conclusion

Turkey & Stuffing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for Thanksgiving or any cozy dinner. It’s hearty, flavorful, and captures all the classic holiday flavors in one easy dish. Perfect for using leftovers, feeding a crowd, or enjoying as a family meal, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Bake it, serve it, and enjoy a slice of Thanksgiving comfort any time of year.

FAQs