- Vegetable broth or chicken broth (adds depth of flavor; vegetarian option available)
- Eggs (binding agent; enhances overall binding and structure)
- Garlic powder (boosts flavor profile; adds a savory note)
- Onion, finely chopped (for additional flavor; optional but recommended for taste)
- Salt and pepper (seasoning to taste; adjust according to preference)
- Optional: Diced apples or cranberries (for added sweetness and color)
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (topping for extra richness and texture)
By including these ingredients, you can create a delicious, creamy leftover turkey and stuffing casserole that will be perfect for holiday meals or comforting weeknight dinners.
Steps
### Creamy Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Casserole: A Delicious Recipe
**Introduction:**
If you're looking to use up those leftover turkey and stuffing in a creative way, this creamy casserole is perfect! It's not only delicious but also simple to prepare. This recipe combines leftover ingredients with fresh flavors for a comforting dish that's sure to warm everyone up.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded leftover turkey
- 1 cup of leftover stuffing (crumbled)
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
#### Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Baking dish (9x13 inches)
- Aluminum foil
#### Step-by-Step Guide:
**Step 1: Prepare the Base**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey and crumbled stuffing.
3. Set aside for later.
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**Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic**
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the melted butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant but not browned.
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**Step 3: Combine Ingredients**
1. Add the chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, heavy whipping cream, and thyme to the saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
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**Step 4: Mix with Turkey and Stuffing**
1. Gradually pour the creamy mixture over the turkey and stuffing in the mixing bowl.
2. Stir well to ensure even distribution of the sauce.
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**Step 5: Bake the Casserole**
1. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
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**Step 6: Serve Hot**
1. Remove the foil, uncover, and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
2. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
#### Serving Suggestions:
Serve this casserole with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes or green beans. It's also great as a main dish on its own, especially during holiday gatherings!
**Conclusion:**
This creamy leftover turkey and stuffing casserole is an excellent way to use up what’s left in the fridge without much effort. Not only does it taste fantastic but it's also perfect for making ahead of time and reheating later.
#### Keywords:
- Leftover turkey
- Stuffing casserole
- Creamy turkey casserole
- Holiday leftovers
By following these steps, you can create a delicious and comforting dish that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!