Turkey Or Chicken "Leftover" Casserole
A comforting casserole combining leftover turkey or chicken, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy, baked to warm and flavorful perfection—ideal for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a two-quart or larger casserole dish.
- Put one half of the gravy on the bottom of the dish.
- Layer the stuffing over the gravy.
- Add the leftover turkey or chicken on top of the stuffing.
- Spread the mashed potatoes over the meat layer.
- Pour the remaining gravy over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of cream cheese or sour cream between the turkey and mashed potatoes. If you don't have stuffing, bread crumbs mixed with herbs can be a great substitute. Don't hesitate to mix in vegetables like peas or corn for added flavor and nutrition. This dish is versatile enough to accommodate various leftover ingredients from your holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a hearty dish on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside cranberry sauce or a tangy relish to enhance the flavors. For a cozy dinner, consider serving with a side of garlic bread or rolls to soak up the gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Or Chicken "Leftover" Casserole contains roughly 709 calories, with 38g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 665mg per serving (29% 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 fresh turkey or chicken instead of leftovers?
Yes, you can use freshly cooked turkey or chicken for this casserole. Just make sure to season it well, as the flavors from the leftovers are often concentrated. Cooked rotisserie chicken can also be a convenient option if you don’t have leftovers on hand.
What can I do if I don't have enough gravy?
If you're short on gravy, you can supplement it with chicken broth or a homemade white sauce. Mixing in a little cream can also enhance the richness. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the dish's flavor profile.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
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).