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This cozy potluck dish mixes all the classic holiday flavors you love in one easy meal. Tender turkey, tart cranberry sauce, savory stuffing, and fresh veggies come together in a simple casserole that’s sure to make everyone happy.
I whipped this up when holiday chaos had me short on time. It quickly became a go-to meal that tastes just like a home-cooked Thanksgiving, but without spending forever in the kitchen.
Grocery List
- Shredded cooked turkey: solid protein base, use leftovers or fresh roast for the best taste
- Cranberry sauce: sweet and tangy pop, store-bought or homemade works fine
- Stuffing mix: for that crumbly, savory kick, pick a good one with herbs included
- Trimmed fresh green beans: add bright crunch and freshness
- Corn kernels: a sweet burst of color; fresh or thawed frozen is great
- Cream of mushroom soup: creamy binder that pulls it all together
- Shredded cheese: cheddar or your fave blend for a melty, golden top
- Olive oil: drizzled on for a slightly crispy baked finish
- Salt and pepper: season to your liking
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Mix The Filling:
- Start by stirring turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, green beans, corn, and mushroom soup in a big bowl. Make sure everything is blended nice and even.
- Season It Up:
- Add salt and pepper to your taste and mix again. Throw in some herbs like thyme or rosemary here if you want a little extra flavor.
- Fill The Dish:
- Spread this mixture evenly into a greased baking pan for even cooking.
- Top With Cheese:
- Scatter shredded cheese all over so it'll melt into a rich, golden crust.
- Olive Oil Drizzle:
- Pour a little olive oil on top for browning and a touch of fruity flavor.
- Bake Until Hot:
- Put it in a 350°F (175°C) oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese will melt and get lightly browned while the inside gets nicely heated.
- Optional Crispy Finish:
- If you want the top extra crispy, broil for a few minutes at the end but watch closely so it doesn't burn.
This dish always takes me back to my first Thanksgiving away from family. Using leftovers made it feel special and connected even when I was far from home. It turned into a comforting new tradition.
Best Ways To Store
This casserole tastes even better reheated the next day when flavors have blended. Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Heat it covered in the oven at 325°F until warm. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture just right.
Ingredient Swaps
Try switching green beans for Brussels sprouts or butternut squash for a seasonal change. For dairy-free, use coconut-based mushroom soup and dairy-free cheese. Different stuffing mixes give you new textures and flavors so go ahead and experiment.
Tasty Serving Ideas
Pair this with a crisp salad featuring apple slices and walnuts for a fresh touch. A glass of lightly oaked Chardonnay goes great with the creamy and sweet flavors. Finish with classic pumpkin pie to complete the meal.
Seasonal Twists
In spring, swap turkey for cooked chicken and use asparagus instead of green beans. In fall, add roasted sweet potatoes or parsnips with sage or nutmeg for cozy spices. This dish works great all year with whatever’s fresh.
Making this casserole feels like wrapping your holiday table in comfort. It packs all those familiar Thanksgiving flavors into a dish that’s easy and crowd-friendly. Proof that tasty and simple can go hand in hand.
Frequently Asked Cooking Questions
- → Can leftover turkey be used here?
Definitely, leftover turkey fits great and adds wonderful flavor. Just shred it evenly so everything mixes well.
- → Which cheese makes the best topping?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses all melt nicely and add rich taste to the top.
- → Will fresh herbs help the flavor?
Yes, tossing in fresh rosemary or thyme really lifts the savory parts whether mixed inside or sprinkled on top.
- → How do I get the topping crunchier?
Toss the whole thing under the broiler for a few minutes once it's baked. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn while crisping up.
- → Can I swap out the cream of mushroom soup?
Sure, you can go with cream of chicken soup or a homemade creamy sauce that you like better.