This leftover turkey casserole is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for using up that extra turkey. With creamy sauce, tasty veggies, and a fluffy egg topping, it’s a cozy meal.
You can whip this up quickly, and it will have everyone asking for seconds! I love making it after Thanksgiving; it’s like a big hug in a baking dish! 🦃❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Use any leftover turkey, shredded or chopped. If you don’t have turkey, rotisserie chicken is a great substitute. You could also try cooked chicken breast or canned chicken.
Pasta: I like using egg noodles for their soft texture, but you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, like macaroni, penne, or bowties.
Veggies: You can mix and match veggies based on what you have. Peas, green beans, or bell peppers work well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, add spinach or kale.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a nice flavor, but feel free to swap it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese if needed.
Eggs: The eggs add richness. If you want an egg-free version, simply leave them out and adjust baking time as needed.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth sauce is easier than it seems! Start by cooking the flour in melted butter to create a roux. This helps thicken the sauce without lumps.
- After adding flour, whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to remove raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in milk and broth while whisking continuously. This prevents lumps from forming.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until thickened, stirring often. Aim for a smooth, creamy consistency.
With these tips and some tasty tweaks, your leftover turkey casserole will be a hit! Happy cooking!
Leftover Turkey Casserole With Egg
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- 2 cups cooked egg noodles or pasta of choice
- 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme or poultry seasoning
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cozy casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep, and 30 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a little time sautéing veggies and making the creamy sauce, then just bake it to golden perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Sauté the Veggies
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onions, diced celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté these together until everything is tender, which should take around 5-7 minutes. It’ll smell great!
3. Make the Sauce
Add the 2 tablespoons of flour to the skillet with veggies, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour. Then, gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and is nice and smooth, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients
Once the sauce is thickened, add your shredded turkey, corn, cooked noodles, cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and thyme. Stir everything together until well combined. You’ll love the colors and smells!
5. Prepare to Bake
Transfer the turkey mixture into your greased casserole dish, making sure to spread it out evenly. Now, crack the two eggs on top, spacing them out so you get a yummy egg with every serving. To finish, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the entire top.
6. Baking Time!
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake it uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. It’s done when the eggs are set, and the topping is golden brown and crispy—just a little crunch on top!
7. Serve & Enjoy
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps everything settle. Finally, garnish with some fresh parsley before serving to give it a nice pop of color!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Leftover Turkey Casserole with a rich baked egg topping!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for egg noodles, you can use any pasta you have on hand, such as penne, macaroni, or even whole wheat or gluten-free options. Just make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the casserole!
How Can I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes! To make this casserole vegetarian, simply substitute the turkey with a variety of veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or even chickpeas for added protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley, spices such as paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for a kick. You can also mix in some diced bell peppers or more veggies for added texture.
