Thanksgiving Dinner Casserole
A hearty Thanksgiving casserole combining tender chicken or turkey, savory mushroom soup, and cheesy dressing, perfect for family gatherings and holiday comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix and divide the Pepperidge Farm dressing, melted butter, and chicken broth.
- Place half of the dressing mixture in the bottom of a baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine diced chicken or turkey, chopped onion, chopped celery, mayonnaise, slightly beaten eggs, milk, and mushroom soup.
- Spread the mixture over the dressing in the baking pan.
- Add grated cheese on top.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can substitute the Pepperidge Farm dressing with homemade bread crumbs mixed with poultry seasoning for a fresher taste. If you prefer a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the dish, similar to flavors found in Chicken Skillet Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole makes a hearty main dish and can be served alongside a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with cranberry sauce for a classic Thanksgiving touch. It also goes well with mashed potatoes or a side of broccoli, making it a versatile option for any occasion. Browse more American recipes for additional inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Thanksgiving Dinner Casserole contains roughly 1822 calories, with 16g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 134g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and protein (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1504mg per serving (65% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use leftover turkey?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving. Just ensure the turkey is diced into small pieces so it mixes well with the other ingredients and heats evenly in the casserole.
What type of cheese works best for this dish?
A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella works wonderfully for this casserole. The sharpness of the cheddar adds depth of flavor, while mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a lovely gooey topping. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses to suit your taste.
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).