Turkey and Stuffing Casserole: A Comforting Thanksgiving Classic for 2024

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering around the table with loved ones, enjoying the warmth of shared traditions, and indulging in the comfort of classic dishes. Among these cherished recipes, turkey and stuffing stand out as the heart of the holiday feast. But what if you could capture the essence of Thanksgiving in a single, comforting dish? Enter the Turkey and Stuffing Casserole—a delightful way to bring together all the flavors of the season in one easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing meal.

This casserole is perfect for those who want to enjoy the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving without the hassle of preparing a full turkey and all the trimmings. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover turkey, ensuring nothing goes to waste after the big day. Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or simply craving those familiar flavors, this Turkey and Stuffing Casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 4 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded
• 1 box (6 oz) stuffing mix (or 4 cups homemade stuffing)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the baking dish

Optional Toppings:

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 cup crispy fried onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the stuffing: If using a boxed stuffing mix, prepare it according to the package instructions. If you prefer homemade stuffing, use your favorite recipe to make about 4 cups. Set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a medium skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion and celery in a bit of butter until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and ensures the vegetables are tender.
4. Mix the casserole base: In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, sautéed onions and celery, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, chicken or turkey broth, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
5. Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the prepared stuffing evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour the turkey mixture over the stuffing, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining stuffing.
6. Optional toppings: If you like, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole for a gooey, cheesy finish. You can also add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for a bit of crunch or fresh parsley for a burst of color.
7. Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Yield, Serving Size, and Nutritional Facts

Yield: This Turkey and Stuffing Casserole recipe makes about 6-8 servings, depending on portion size.

Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup per serving.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 380
• Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 870mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 24g
• Vitamin A: 10% of Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 2% of DV
• Calcium: 10% of DV
• Iron: 10% of DV

These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Tips for Success:

• Leftover Turkey: This recipe is ideal for using up leftover turkey, but it works just as well with chicken. If you don’t have leftovers, you can cook turkey breasts or thighs specifically for this dish.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
• Customize It: Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your family’s tastes. Add in some sautéed mushrooms, diced apples, or even a handful of dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.

This Turkey and Stuffing Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together all the best flavors of Thanksgiving in one convenient dish. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftovers or simply want to enjoy those classic holiday tastes without the fuss, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that will warm hearts and fill bellies.

Enjoy the warmth and comfort of Thanksgiving, any time of the year, with this easy and delicious Turkey and Stuffing Casserole!