Name: Delicious Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole You'll Love
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive oil (adds richness to the sautéed vegetables); 1 medium Onion (chopped for flavor); 3 cloves Garlic (minced for aromatic goodness); 4 cups Shredded leftover turkey (great for using up holiday leftovers); 1 cup Leftover gravy (provides a comforting sauce); Salt and pepper (to taste); 1/3 cup Chopped parsley (for color and flavor); 4 cups Mashed potatoes (creamy layer for the casserole); 1/2 cup Heavy cream (to loosen thick mashed potatoes); 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for topping)

There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of turkey and mashed potatoes. As the weather cools and cozy vibes settle in, I find myself craving the warmth of a hearty dish that feels like a warm hug—and this Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole does just that! Inspired by the leftovers from holiday feasts, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during the inevitable post-celebration clean-up.

As each flavorful ingredient layers together, I’m transported to a place of home-cooked bliss, where creamy mashed potatoes cradle tender turkey, infused with savory gravy and aromatic garlic. It’s not just a dish; it’s a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and shared laughter. Best of all? This casserole comes together effortlessly, making it the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or unexpected guests. So, let’s dive into a recipe that promises to elevate your leftovers into a delightful meal that everyone will rave about!

Why love this Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole?

Nostalgic flavors beckon you to revisit those cherished family dinners. This casserole beautifully melds leftover turkey and creamy mashed potatoes, creating a deliciously cozy meal that warms the heart. Quick preparation means you can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Versatile enough to accommodate whatever leftovers you have, and topped with a golden, cheesy crust, it’s bound to impress. Crowd-pleasing appeal ensures that everyone—friends, family, even picky eaters—will come back for seconds!

Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to create a delightful Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole!

For the Filling

Olive oil – 2 tablespoons, which adds a lovely richness to the sautéed vegetables.
Onion – 1 medium, chopped for a sweet and savory base flavor.
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced to infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.
Shredded leftover turkey – 4 cups, a great way to use up those holiday leftovers.
Leftover gravy – 1 cup, providing a comforting, flavorful sauce that brings it all together.
Salt and pepper – to taste, enhancing the flavors to perfection.
Chopped parsley – 1/3 cup for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

For the Topping

Mashed potatoes – 4 cups, creating a creamy, dreamy layer that blankets the filling.
Heavy cream – 1/2 cup, used if needed to loosen mashed potatoes that have thickened.
Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup, freshly grated for a melty, golden topping that adds a decadent finish.

This cozy casserole is filled with goodness, making your culinary journey into comfort food an unforgettable one!

How to Make Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole

Preheat the oven to 400°F. This warm environment is essential for that lovely bubbly texture you seek when baking the casserole!
Sauté onions and garlic in the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook for about 2 minutes until they’re translucent and aromatic, creating a perfect flavor foundation for your casserole.
Incorporate the shredded turkey into the skillet and let it mingle with the onions and garlic for about a minute. Add the leftover gravy and chopped parsley, seasoning with salt and pepper as desired. Let everything combine and heat through.
Adjust the consistency of your mashed potatoes by adding heavy cream if they’ve thickened too much in the fridge. This will ensure they spread easily in the casserole.
Spread 1/4 of the mashed potatoes on the bottom of a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the turkey filling right on top, then finish with the remaining mashed potatoes, creating a fluffy cloud on top!
Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese generously over the casserole. Bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully bubbly and golden brown. For extra indulgence, top it with more parmesan!

Optional: Garnish with extra chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole Variations

Feel free to get creative with your casserole! Each twist adds a unique touch to this comforting dish.

Vegetable Boost: Add 1-2 cups of your favorite veggies, like peas or broccoli, for extra nutrition and color. They complement the turkey beautifully!
Cheddar Twist: Replace parmesan with sharp cheddar cheese for a bolder, melty topping that pairs so well with the mashed potatoes.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the turkey mixture for a fragrant uplift. It’s amazing how herbs can transform a dish!
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the turkey filling for a flavorful kick. This small addition can elevate the whole experience!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gravy instead of regular gravy to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends while still keeping all the flavor.
Creamy Mushroom: Stir in sautéed mushrooms with the turkey for an earthy, rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the rest of the ingredients.
Sweet Potato Layer: Swap out regular mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet, vibrant twist that adds a nutritional boost and a touch of color.
Crispy Topping: Top with crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs before baking for an irresistible crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

What to Serve with Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole?

Transform your comforting casserole into a full, delightful meal that tantalizes the senses and warms the soul.

Garlic Bread: This buttery delight offers a crunchy contrast that complements the creamy casserole beautifully, perfect for scooping up every last bite.
Fresh Salad: Try a simple mixed green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness and acidity help balance the rich flavors of the casserole.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a sweet earthiness that enhances the hearty turkey and mashed potatoes, adding a vibrant color to the plate.
Cranberry Sauce: A spoonful of tangy cranberry sauce adds a pop of flavor, cutting through the richness while evoking memories of festive feasts.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a fresh, green element to your meal. Their mild flavor pairs well and offers a satisfying crunch.
Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, serve warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream. The spices within echo the flavors of the casserole, making for a cozy conclusion.
Sparkling Cider: An uplifting glass of sparkling cider or a light white wine elevates the dining experience, enhancing the flavors without overpowering the meal.

These wonderful pairings not only round out your dinner but will have your family gathering around in anticipation of a deliciously memorable evening!

Make Ahead Options

These Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the turkey filling and mashed potatoes up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. To maintain the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes, consider adding a splash of heavy cream before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, layer the mashed potatoes and turkey filling in a baking dish, top with parmesan cheese, and bake for 30 minutes at 400°F until bubbly and golden. This way, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole

• Proper Layering: Ensure even layers of mashed potatoes and turkey filling; this helps in achieving the perfect bite every time.

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining turkey and gravy, mix gently; overmixing can lead to a mushy texture in your casserole.

• Creamy Potatoes: If your mashed potatoes are too stiff, don’t hesitate to add a bit more heavy cream for that dreamy consistency essential for your Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole.

• Bake to Perfection: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking—every oven is different. Look for that bubbly, golden finish to know it’s ready!

• Leftover Love: Don’t worry if you don’t have enough turkey; this casserole is versatile. You can mix in veggies or even ham to elevate your leftovers.

How to Store and Freeze Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover and bake at 350°F until warm.

Freezer: Freeze the casserole in a well-sealed container or tightly wrapped in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes to ensure the dish is evenly heated through and the topping stays crispy.

Serving Suggestions: When ready to serve, consider garnishing with additional parsley or parmesan for an extra touch of flavor!

Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of turkey should I use?
Absolutely! Using leftover turkey is ideal for this casserole since it adds flavor and nostalgia. However, if you don’t have leftover turkey, you can use rotisserie chicken or even cooked beef. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces to ensure it blends well with the other ingredients.

How should I store leftover Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole?
To keep the delightful flavors intact, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest covering it with foil and baking at 350°F until warmed through to avoid drying it out.

Can I freeze the Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole?
You sure can! To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in an airtight freezer-safe dish. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven for the best results!

What should I do if my mashed potatoes are too thick?
Very simple! If your mashed potatoes have thickened too much, just add in about 1/2 cup of heavy cream and mix thoroughly until you achieve that creamy, spreadable consistency. You can also warm them slightly before mixing, which can make this process even easier.

Is this casserole suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! This Turkey and Mashed Potatoes Casserole can be modified for various dietary needs. If someone has a gluten allergy, make sure your gravy is gluten-free. For dairy-free options, substitute the heavy cream and parmesan with your favorite dairy alternatives, like almond milk and nutritional yeast. Just remember to double-check labels for allergens, especially if you’re serving this dish to guests.

How can I prevent the casserole from becoming too dry when reheating?
To maintain moisture, it’s best to reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F and cover it with foil for the first part of heating. This will create steam and help keep it moist. Check its progress, and remove the foil towards the end to allow the top to crisp up nicely!