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My Leftover Turkey Casserole brings new life to holiday extras in the most delicious way. I created this recipe years ago tired of plain sandwiches and now it's become our after-holiday tradition. The way tender turkey meets creamy sauce and pasta creates pure comfort in every bite making leftovers feel like a brand new meal.
Pure Comfort Magic
Something wonderful happens when you transform leftover turkey into this cozy casserole. Each spoonful brings that perfect balance of creamy sauce tender meat and vegetables. I love how quick it comes together using simple ingredients making post holiday meals feel special not like leftovers at all.
From My Kitchen to Yours
- Good Pasta: 8 ounces any shape creates perfect base
- Cream Cheese: 4 ounces soft brings silky richness
- Creamy Soup: 1 can mushroom makes everything smooth
- Fresh Milk: ½ cup creates perfect sauce texture
- Rich Broth: ½ cup turkey or chicken adds depth
- Garden Veggies: 2 cups frozen thawed brings color life
- Turkey Love: 2 cups leftover meat diced perfect
- Buttery Crackers: 1 sleeve crushed makes crispy top
- Good Butter: 2 tablespoons melted golden dreams
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Creating Casserole Magic
- Pasta Dreams
- Cook noodles just right still bit firm drain well ready for sauce.
- Creamy Base
- Mix soup cream cheese milk broth until silky smooth perfect.
- Coming Together
- Fold in pasta turkey vegetables watch everything become friends.
- Cozy Prep
- Fill baking dish gentle spread everything even pretty.
- Crunchy Top
- Crush crackers mix butter sprinkle creates golden crown.
- Baking Time
- Let oven work magic until edges bubble everything golden warm.
Kitchen Dreams
Sometimes I use chicken when turkey gone or swap different soups brings new flavors. Extra vegetables like peppers mushrooms make everything more colorful. Crispy onions instead crackers creates fun twist keeps dinner interesting.
Make Ahead Magic
Casserole stays happy three days covered well in fridge. Warm gentle with foil on top brings back all that comfort. Need dinner ready early? Put everything together morning time add few extra minutes baking later creates perfect meal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken instead?
Any cooked poultry works well. Rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey are both great options. Just cut into bite-sized pieces.
- → What vegetables work best?
Any frozen mixed vegetable blend works great. Peas, carrots, corn and green beans are common choices.
- → Can I make this ahead?
Assemble up to a day ahead without the cracker topping. Add crackers just before baking.
- → What kind of pasta should I use?
Medium shapes like rotini or shells work best to hold the sauce. Cook just to al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Keep covered in fridge up to 3 days. The cracker topping will soften but still tastes great.
Conclusion
A delightful turkey pasta casserole that transforms leftover turkey into a creamy, satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.