Leftover Turkey Casserole transforms leftover turkey and stuffing into a single, comforting dish. This creamy, one-dish casserole is quick to assemble and delicious—ready in just three simple steps.
This casserole is one of the best ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers—especially when the family groans “not more turkey!” It also works wonderfully to revive turkey that turned out a bit dry. Simple, satisfying, and forgiving.
I love Thanksgiving: the food, the conversation, and the cozy feeling of eating with family. Even with a small gathering, I always cook generously so I have plenty of leftovers to enjoy afterward. My husband John helps by grilling the turkey, which frees up the oven and makes cleanup easier.
If you need it, we also share a tutorial on how to spatchcock and carve your Thanksgiving turkey and several tips to make the holiday less stressful.
I always make extra dressing so there’s plenty to crumble into this casserole. After the big day of cooking, it’s nice to have a fast, flavorful meal that uses what’s already on hand.
How long is leftover turkey good for?
Follow CDC guidance: refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking, and keep perishables either hot or cold until stored. Leftovers are generally safe in the refrigerator for three to four days. If you won’t eat them within that window, freeze them within two hours of cooking. When reheating, heat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) measured with a food thermometer. Frozen leftovers are best used within one to two months for quality.
For this recipe I use canned soup for convenience—two cans of cream of chicken make the sauce rich and easy to stir together with milk.
Leftover Turkey Casserole Ingredients:
- Cooked turkey – Shredded or chopped; white, dark, or a mix.
- Bread dressing – Premade or leftover bread stuffing (not dry croutons).
- Cream of chicken soup – Use low-sodium if possible. Typically two 10.5 oz cans (about 22 oz total).
- Milk – Any milk will work; room-temperature milk blends more smoothly with the soup.
Variations & tips from the cook
- Substitute cooked chicken—rotisserie chicken works well.
- Leftover turkey breast freezes and thaws nicely; those leftovers are perfect here.
- If you don’t have homemade dressing, a boxed Stove Top-style mix is an easy substitute.
- Add quick-cooking vegetables (frozen corn, peas, or green beans), or sauté vegetables briefly before combining.
- Cream of mushroom or celery soup can replace cream of chicken if that’s what you have on hand.
- Scale the recipe down for fewer people by using smaller containers and only one can of soup.
- Bake in two freezable dishes: enjoy one now and freeze the other for later.
What to serve with leftover turkey casserole
Keep sides simple. Leftover cranberry sauce pairs especially well. Other light accompaniments include fresh salads or a fruit-based side to balance the creamy casserole.
More leftover turkey recipe ideas
Cooked turkey can replace chicken in most recipes. Here are a few ideas to try with leftover turkey:
- Turkey a la King
- Turkey chowder with corn
- Turkey pot pie
- Turkey salad sliders
- Turkey tetrazzini
Pin this turkey casserole recipe
Other great Thanksgiving leftover recipes
- Baked Potato Cakes
- Fried Dressing Patties
- Deep-Fried Cornbread Dressing Balls
- Hot Italian Beef Sandwiches (prime rib)
- Hot Turkey Sandwich
- Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole
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Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 cups cooked turkey, cubed or shredded
- 4 cups pre-made bread stuffing
- 22 oz cream of chicken soup (low sodium – two 10.5 oz cans)
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 °F. Spray the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Spread the cooked turkey across the bottom of the baking dish. Crumble the dressing evenly over the turkey.
- Stir the canned soup with the milk until smooth, then pour the mixture over the dressing and turkey.
- Bake until bubbly, about 40 to 60 minutes. Serve warm.
Notes
- Milk blends more easily with the soup when both are at room temperature.
- Chicken can be substituted for turkey.
- Cream of mushroom or celery soup may be used instead of cream of chicken.
- Adjust turkey quantity to cover the bottom of your dish—more turkey yields a thicker casserole.
- Add vegetables for variation.
- Leftovers freeze well in an airtight container.
This nutritional information was calculated using the original ingredients and amounts. If you follow a strict diet, recalculate nutrition to match any substitutions or brand changes.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 29 g
Protein: 22 g
Fat: 18 g
Sodium: 1111 mg
Nutritional Disclaimer
This recipe’s nutrition data is a guide based on specific brands and measurements used. If you require exact values for a special diet, please calculate using your exact ingredients.
What is your favorite way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers? Are you usually the cook or the guest? Share your ideas—your feedback inspires new dishes!