Turkey-Italian Style
A comforting Italian-inspired casserole combining leftover turkey with cheesy and savory tomato flavor, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chopped leftover turkey in a casserole dish.
- Cover the turkey with mozzarella cheese.
- Pour Italian tomato soup over the cheese and turkey.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some Italian herbs like oregano or basil with the turkey. If you don't have mozzarella, provolone or cheddar can work as good substitutes. You can also add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition and taste. This dish is great for using up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Turkey-Italian style dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Italian Appetizer Bread for a delightful combination. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside pasta or a side of roasted vegetables, providing a wonderful contrast to the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture and heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey-Italian Style contains roughly 596 calories, with 44g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (98% of the Daily Value), protein (89% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1221mg per serving (53% 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 shredded turkey instead of chopped?
Yes, shredded turkey works perfectly in this recipe. It will blend well with the other ingredients and may even absorb more of the flavors from the soup and cheese.
What can I substitute for Italian tomato soup?
If you don't have Italian tomato soup, you can use regular tomato soup and add Italian seasoning to taste. Alternatively, marinara sauce can also serve as a flavorful substitute.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
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).