turkey stuffing casserole recipe

3 min read 21-01-2025

Meta Description: This Thanksgiving, ditch the traditional stuffing and try this comforting and flavorful Turkey Stuffing Casserole! This easy recipe uses leftover turkey and all the best stuffing ingredients for a crowd-pleasing side dish. Get the recipe now!

Introduction: A Thanksgiving Twist on a Classic

Thanksgiving wouldn't be complete without stuffing, would it? But this year, let's elevate the classic with a comforting and flavorful turkey stuffing casserole. This recipe uses leftover turkey, transforming simple Thanksgiving leftovers into a hearty and delicious side dish perfect for the holiday or any chilly evening. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing casserole!

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe is incredibly adaptable; feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

For the Stuffing:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 cup chopped mushrooms (optional, but adds great flavor!)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth
4 cups cubed leftover turkey (dark and white meat work well)
6 cups cubed day-old bread (challah, sourdough, or your favorite works great)
1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, adds freshness!)

For the Topping:

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

This turkey stuffing casserole is surprisingly simple to make. Follow these easy steps for a perfect result:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and mushrooms (if using) and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic, sage, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combine the Stuffing Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, turkey, and bread. Gently toss until the bread is moistened but not soggy. Stir in parsley (if using).

Step 3: Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Mix well.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the stuffing mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the topping evenly over the stuffing.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is golden brown.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. Serve warm as a delicious Thanksgiving side dish, or enjoy it throughout the week for a quick and easy meal.

Tips and Variations for Your Turkey Stuffing Casserole

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Add some crunch: Incorporate toasted pecans or walnuts for added texture and flavor.
Make it cheesy: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like marjoram or oregano.
Leftover cranberry sauce: Fold in some leftover cranberry sauce for a sweet and tart twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time when baking from cold.

Q: Can I use frozen bread?

A: While not recommended, you can use thawed frozen bread. Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the stuffing mixture.

Q: What type of bread is best?

A: Stale bread works best for stuffing, as it absorbs the liquid better and doesn't become mushy. But any bread you love will work. Sourdough and challah are particularly delicious!

Conclusion: A Thanksgiving Staple Reimagined

This Turkey Stuffing Casserole is a delicious and easy way to use up leftover turkey and create a comforting side dish that everyone will love. It's perfect for Thanksgiving, but also a great meal for any time of the year. So ditch the traditional stuffing this year and give this recipe a try! You won't be disappointed. Happy cooking!