Left Over Turkey Casserole
A comforting leftover turkey casserole featuring tender turkey, creamy cheese, and pasta, perfect for a hearty family meal or cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the chicken bouillon cube in 1/3 cup hot water.
- Combine chopped turkey, raw macaroni, turkey broth, cream of chicken soup, water, diced onion, dissolved bouillon, and cubed Velveeta cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Stir once or twice during baking to ensure even heating.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. You can also substitute the Velveeta cheese with a blend of cheddar and cream cheese for a different flavor profile. If you don’t have turkey broth, chicken broth works well too. Make sure to stir the casserole a couple of times during baking for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This turkey casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside garlic bread or a side of mashed potatoes. It’s also delicious topped with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the casserole with foil to retain moisture, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave single portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Left Over Turkey Casserole contains roughly 860 calories, with 54g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (109% of the Daily Value) and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover chicken instead of turkey?
Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly in this casserole. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning if the chicken is already seasoned. This dish is quite versatile and can accommodate different types of cooked poultry.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
You can add frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply stir them into the mixture along with the other ingredients. This not only enhances the dish but also makes it more colorful and appealing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).