Turkey Casserole(Great For Turkey Leftovers)
A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for using up turkey leftovers. Combining tender turkey, flavorful tomato sauce, vegetables, and spaghetti, it offers a comforting meal with a blend of herbs and savory elements that appeal to both family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cube cooked turkey.
- Cook thin spaghetti according to package directions.
- Make white sauce.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté diced celery, diced green pepper, and crushed garlic until tender.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato puree, basil, chicken bouillon cube, and cooked turkey; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Combine cooked spaghetti with the turkey mixture and white sauce.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to the white sauce. If you're out of chicken bouillon, vegetable broth can be a great substitute. This casserole is versatile; feel free to include other leftover vegetables like peas or carrots. Additionally, use whole wheat spaghetti for a healthier option, or swap in gluten-free pasta if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This turkey casserole is perfect on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds a nice touch. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with a side of roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with Chicken Artichoke Casserole for a comforting dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Casserole(Great For Turkey Leftovers) contains roughly 337 calories, with 12g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (132% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2446mg per serving (106% 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 meats instead of turkey?
Absolutely! This casserole works well with cooked chicken or even ham. Just ensure the meat is cooked and shredded or cubed before adding it to the dish. Using a different protein can give the recipe a new twist while still maintaining its delicious flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Prepare it up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I do with leftover turkey if I don't want to make this casserole?
If you're looking for alternatives, consider making a turkey soup or turkey salad. You could also use the leftover turkey in sandwiches or wraps. For a cozy option, try your hand at a Turkey Pot Pie, which is another great way to use up those holiday leftovers.
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).