Caffeinated Crunchy Christian Moms

Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole

Here’s a cozy and creative recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers: Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole. It’s the perfect way to repurpose your turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and more into a delicious comfort dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• 2 cups stuffing (dressing)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce or cranberries
• 1 cup green bean casserole (or steamed green beans)
• 1/2 cup gravy (or more, for serving)
• 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for topping. Emit for a dairy-free recipe)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for greasing the casserole dish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare your casserole dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
3. Layer the base:
   • Start by spreading the mashed potatoes in the bottom of the dish to create a creamy base layer.
4. Add the turkey:
   • Evenly distribute the shredded turkey over the mashed potatoes. You can add a bit of salt and pepper to season if desired.
5. Layer the stuffing:
   • Spoon the stuffing over the turkey layer, pressing it down gently so it holds together. The stuffing adds a savory, slightly crispy texture when baked.
6. Top with green beans:
   • Add the green bean casserole (or just steamed green beans if you don’t have the casserole). Spread them evenly over the stuffing layer.
7. Cranberry sauce:
   • Spoon small dollops of cranberry sauce or cranberries over the green beans or smear it gently across the top. The tartness adds a nice contrast to the richness of the casserole.
8. Add gravy:
   • Pour gravy evenly over the casserole, making sure it soaks into the layers. You can add extra gravy for more moisture, if desired.
9. Optional cheese topping:
   • Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese (or any cheese you like) over the top of the casserole. It will melt and create a golden, cheesy crust. Emit this step if you are making the casserole dairy-free. You could use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor.
10. Bake:
    • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown. If you added cheese, it should be melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish:
    • Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
12. Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon it onto plates, drizzle with extra gravy if desired, and enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers in a whole new way!

Tips:

• Feel free to mix and match leftovers—sweet potatoes, mac and cheese, or even a bit of Brussels sprouts would work well in this casserole.
• You can make this casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready to serve.
• For a lighter version, swap out the mashed potatoes for mashed cauliflower or butternut squash.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers in this tasty new form!

Maria Wilcoxon