Leftover Turkey Casserole
Creamy and comforting leftover turkey casserole combines tender turkey, macaroni, vegetables, and cheese, making it a hearty dish perfect for a family meal or holiday leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and green bell pepper until tender in margarine.
- Mix cooked turkey, macaroni, sautéed vegetables, pimentos, mushroom soup, Velveeta, and a splash of milk together.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using leftover turkey seasoned with herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can substitute the Velveeta with a mix of cream cheese and cheddar for a different cheese profile. If you prefer a healthier option, swap out the macaroni for whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles. Don't forget to adjust the milk based on the desired creaminess of the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This leftover turkey casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also enjoy it alongside crusty bread or biscuits to soak up the cheesy goodness. For a festive touch, serve it with a side of New Year'S Black-Eyed Pea Corn Bread to celebrate the season.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leftover Turkey Casserole contains roughly 400 calories, with 25g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value) and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 901mg per serving (39% 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 other types of meat instead of turkey?
Absolutely! This casserole is versatile, and you can use cooked chicken, ham, or even a combination of different meats. Just ensure the meat is cooked and chopped into bite-sized pieces for even distribution throughout the dish.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, you may need to adjust the baking time as it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I add to make it more nutritious?
To boost the nutrition, consider adding steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas to the casserole mixture. These veggies blend well with the flavors and add color and vitamins. You can also substitute whole grain pasta as a healthier base.
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).