Thanksgiving brings together family, gratitude, and a generous spread of food — but it also leaves behind a fridge packed with leftovers. Instead of reheating plate after plate, turn those extra portions into a cozy Turkey Stuffing Casserole that captures all the holiday flavor in a single dish. This Thanksgiving casserole is the ultimate way to repurpose leftover turkey, stuffing, and gravy into something warm, comforting, and utterly satisfying. Not only does it reduce food waste, but it also makes an easy, hearty meal that feels festive all over again. Get ready for simple prep and delicious post-holiday comfort.
A Family Tradition That Started with One Pan
It all began on a chilly Friday after Thanksgiving — the kind of morning when everyone craves a cozy bite but doesn’t want to cook from scratch. The fridge was overflowing with turkey, gravy, and stuffing, and the thought of assembling yet another sandwich just didn’t appeal. That’s when the idea for Turkey Stuffing Casserole came to life.
I remember gathering everything into one big casserole dish, layering the savory turkey with creamy gravy and fluffy stuffing before sliding it into the oven. What emerged was bubbling, golden perfection — the aroma alone drew everyone to the kitchen. That single experiment quickly became a beloved Thanksgiving casserole tradition in my family. Each year now, after the big feast, we turn our leftover turkey recipes into a new celebration of flavor — one that’s simple, satisfying, and irresistibly comforting.
What makes Turkey Stuffing Casserole stand out among other leftover turkey recipes is how perfectly it combines the familiar flavors of Thanksgiving into one comforting bite. The layers of tender turkey and creamy gravy meld beautifully beneath a buttery stuffing crust that crisps up in the oven. Each spoonful delivers that balance of savory, rich, and slightly herby comfort that feels like wrapping yourself in a blanket of nostalgia.
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Turkey Stuffing Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Turn Thanksgiving leftovers into a warm, comforting casserole combining turkey, stuffing, and gravy baked to golden perfection. This easy recipe reduces waste and delivers nostalgic holiday flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
3. Spread the turkey evenly in the bottom of the dish.
4. Scatter the mixed vegetables over the turkey layer.
5. In a bowl, whisk together gravy, cream of chicken soup, and milk until smooth.
6. Pour the creamy mixture over the turkey and vegetables.
7. Spoon the stuffing evenly over the top and press lightly to cover.
8. Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing layer.
9. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
10. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the stuffing is golden and crisp.
11. Let rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 25
- Cholesterol: 70
Keywords: turkey stuffing casserole, thanksgiving casserole, leftover turkey recipes, stuffing casserole, baked turkey casserole, post-holiday, comfort food, easy casserole, thanksgiving leftovers, family recipe
Compared to leftover sandwiches or soups, this Thanksgiving casserole is far more indulgent and satisfying. It’s hot, hearty, and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for post-holiday lunches or easy weeknight dinners when you want something delicious without the fuss. With every bite, you’ll rediscover why Thanksgiving flavors are cherished — transformed here into a Turkey Stuffing Casserole that brings warmth, convenience, and that classic holiday magic back to your table.
What You’ll Need for the Perfect Turkey Casserole
Simple Ingredients for Big Flavor
The best part about making a Turkey Stuffing Casserole is that you’re mostly using what’s already in your fridge. It’s a truly resourceful Thanksgiving casserole that combines familiar leftovers with a few pantry staples to create something warm and satisfying. Below is a simple, scannable ingredient list to help you get started.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes / Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked turkey (shredded or cubed) | 3 cups | Use white, dark, or a mix. Substitute with cooked chicken for a similar turkey casserole recipe. |
| Leftover stuffing | 3–4 cups | Any variety works—herb, cornbread, or sausage stuffing. For less, mix in breadcrumbs or croutons. |
| Gravy | 1 ½ cups | Use homemade or store-bought. Replace with cream of chicken soup for a richer texture. |
| Cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Optional if enough gravy is available. Cream of mushroom or celery soup also works. |
| Mixed vegetables | 2 cups | Use frozen peas and carrots, green beans, or leftover roasted veggies. |
| Butter (melted) | 3 tablespoons | Adds golden crispness to the stuffing casserole topping. Olive oil works too. |
| Milk (optional) | ¼ cup | To thin the sauce if too thick. |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Season lightly if leftovers are already well-seasoned. |
| Fresh herbs (optional) | 1–2 tablespoons | Parsley, thyme, or sage enhance that classic Thanksgiving aroma. |
Pantry-friendly swaps: If you’re short on stuffing, try using mashed potatoes as a topping for a twist on a classic turkey casserole recipe. Layer green beans or leftover roasted Brussels sprouts for added color and nutrition. This recipe is all about versatility—use what you have and make it your own.
Essential Tools to Make Cooking Easy
- 9×13-inch casserole dish: The perfect size for baking evenly and serving a family.
- Large mixing bowl: To combine turkey, gravy, soup, and vegetables before layering.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Ideal for smooth stirring and layering in the dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure your gravy-to-stuffing ratio is just right.
- Aluminum foil: Helps prevent over-browning during baking.
- Cooking spray or butter: Grease the dish lightly to keep the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easy.
Quick tip: Always grease your baking dish well before adding the first layer. It prevents sticking, keeps edges golden rather than burnt, and helps each portion scoop out neatly. When assembled with care and baked to perfection, this Turkey Stuffing Casserole serves up homestyle comfort with minimal effort—proof that post-holiday meals can be just as joyful as the feast itself.
How to Make Turkey Stuffing Casserole Perfectly Every Time
Layering for Flavor and Texture
The secret to a perfect Turkey Stuffing Casserole lies in how you build it. Each layer should complement the next — blending textures while keeping those signature Thanksgiving flavors intact. Follow these simple steps to create a baked turkey stuffing casserole that’s golden, creamy, and full of cozy comfort.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) for even baking and a crisp topping.
- Prepare the base: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer the turkey: Spread shredded or cubed turkey evenly along the bottom — the hearty foundation of your Thanksgiving leftover casserole.
- Add the vegetables: Scatter mixed or roasted veggies over the turkey for color and balance.
- Mix the creamy layer: In a large bowl, combine gravy, cream soup, and milk into a smooth sauce. Pour over turkey and vegetables.
- Top with stuffing: Spoon stuffing evenly on top, gently pressing it down without compacting it.
- Add butter for crispness: Drizzle melted butter over the stuffing to enhance flavor and crispness.
When assembled, your turkey casserole recipe should have four distinct layers — moist turkey, creamy filling, and golden stuffing on top. Baking merges flavors into an irresistible baked turkey stuffing casserole that captures the essence of Thanksgiving all over again.
Baking, Serving, and Storage Tips
Baking instructions: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes to heat through the creamy layers. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, or until the stuffing is crisp and golden brown. The edges should bubble slightly, filling your kitchen with pure comfort.
Serving suggestions: Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier slicing. Pair with cranberry sauce or a simple salad. Drizzle leftover gravy over the top for extra richness.
Storage tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze the entire casserole (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Meal prep tip: Divide into single portions before freezing for convenient leftover turkey recipes any night of the week.
This baked turkey stuffing casserole not only tastes amazing fresh but also reheats beautifully — proof that even leftovers can feel like a new celebration.
Extra Tips, FAQ, and Conclusion
FAQ
Can I make Turkey Stuffing Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake straight from the fridge at 375°F, adding about 10 extra minutes.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Once cooled, transfer any Thanksgiving casserole leftovers to airtight containers or cover the baking dish. Store in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely. Swap in roast chicken for any turkey casserole recipe year-round. The flavor combination works beautifully anytime.
How can I make it dairy-free or lighter?
Replace butter with olive oil and cream soup with a dairy-free milk-and-cornstarch mixture or a light broth sauce for a healthier stuffing casserole.
How long can Turkey Stuffing Casserole last in the fridge?
A properly stored baked turkey stuffing casserole keeps up to 4 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months frozen. Reheat until piping hot before serving.
Turning Leftovers into Comfort
When the festivities fade and the table is cleared, Turkey Stuffing Casserole steps in as the hero of the post-holiday season. It takes tender turkey, seasoned stuffing, and savory gravy and turns them into a homestyle Thanksgiving casserole just as satisfying as the main event.
Beyond being a practical way to use leftover turkey recipes, it’s a celebration of comfort and family tradition. Each golden, bubbling pan reminds us that great meals don’t have to be complicated to feel special. Whether it’s for brunch, lunch, or an easy dinner, this stuffing casserole proves that comfort food can be both resourceful and delightful.
So next time your fridge is overfilled with holiday fixings, skip the sandwich and bake this baked turkey stuffing casserole. Simple, hearty, and full of nostalgic flavor, it’s the post-Thanksgiving favorite your family will crave year after year.
