Looking to transform your leftover turkey into something extraordinary? This Savory Cranberry Turkey Casserole is your answer. It's a delightful mix of flavors and textures that turns a simple meal into something truly memorable.
Cooked turkey is the star of the dish, providing hearty protein and a touch of nostalgia. Cranberry sauce adds a sweet-tart contrast that brightens everything up. Stuffing contributes its warm, herby flavors and comforting texture. Mashed potatoes offer creaminess and help bind everything together. Turkey gravy adds moisture and depth, making every bite satisfying. Frozen green peas bring a pop of color and a slight sweetness. Cheddar cheese melts into gooey goodness on top. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme introduce fresh, earthy notes. Garlic powder and onion powder enhance the overall flavor profile, while black pepper provides a gentle kick. Finally, breadcrumbs mixed with butter create a crispy, golden topping that’s hard to resist.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp, tossed green salad to balance its richness. A side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots can also complement the dish nicely. For a festive touch, serve with a glass of nice white wine or a light, fruity red.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives you time to mix your ingredients while the oven heats up. Grab a large bowl and add the shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, turkey gravy, frozen green peas, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything well until it’s thoroughly combined.
Next, grease a casserole dish lightly to avoid any sticking. Transfer your turkey mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, making sure it’s well distributed. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, breadcrumbs, and chopped fresh herbs. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer evenly.
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top with the cheese melted and bubbly. Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes — this will make serving easier and tastier.
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