Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole

This casserole is a delicious way to give your holiday leftovers a second act. It combines all the classic flavors of a Thanksgiving meal, like turkey, stuffing, and cranberries, into one warm and satisfying dish.

With just a few minutes of prep, you can transform your extras into a completely new dinner. It’s a simple recipe that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort.

Why will you love Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole?

Layering the ingredients creates distinct textures and flavors in every single bite.

Mixing mayonnaise into the mashed potatoes keeps them moist and adds richness as they bake.

A quick sauce made from cranberry and mayonnaise provides a creamy and tangy element that complements the savory turkey.

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole Ingredients

• Leftover Turkey: Both white and dark meat work well. Just be sure to remove any skin or bones before chopping.

• Stuffing: Any kind of prepared stuffing or dressing is suitable for this recipe. Use your favorite.

• Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise will give you the best flavor and creamy texture.

• Cranberry Sauce: Whole berry cranberry sauce adds nice texture, but jellied sauce can be used if you whisk it until smooth first.

• Mashed Potatoes: If your leftover potatoes are very stiff from being in the fridge, warm them slightly to make them easier to mix and spread.

• Cheese: Mozzarella melts nicely, but shredded cheddar or a Monterey Jack blend would also be good choices.

Exact quantities are in the recipe card below.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Components

First, preheat your oven and grease your baking dish. Divide the stuffing in half. In a small bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce and a portion of the mayonnaise. In a separate, larger bowl, combine the rest of the mayonnaise with the mashed potatoes and shredded cheese.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole Layers

Begin by spreading half of the stuffing on the bottom of the dish. Top this with all of the chopped turkey. Next, evenly spread the cranberry and mayonnaise mixture over the turkey.

Step 3: Add the Topping and Bake

Carefully spoon the cheesy potato mixture over the cranberry layer, spreading it to the edges. Finish by crumbling the remaining stuffing over the top. Bake the casserole until it is hot all the way through and the top is golden brown.

What to Serve with Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole

This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own. If you like, serve it with a simple green salad to add a fresh contrast.

Helpful Tricks for Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole

Food Safety: Since you are reheating leftovers, it is important to ensure the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the dish to check.

Variations: Feel free to add a cup of leftover green beans or corn with the turkey layer for extra vegetables.

Crispier Topping: For a crispier top, you can place the casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Watch it closely to prevent it from burning.

Dish Size: A 9×9-inch dish also works, but the layers will be thinner and may require a slightly shorter baking time.

How to Store and Freeze Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot throughout. Freezing is also an option; see the FAQ for details.

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole Recipe FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. You may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover it securely with both plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can substitute an equal amount of sour cream or full-fat Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. This will alter the flavor profile slightly. You could also use leftover gravy instead of the cranberry-mayonnaise sauce for a different take.

Leftover Turkey Stuffing Casserole

A layered bake with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and a creamy cranberry sauce.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups prepared leftover stuffing divided, about 450g
• 4 cups chopped leftover cooked turkey about 450g
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise divided, 170g
• 1/4 cup whole berry cranberry sauce 75g
• 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes 480g
• 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese 110g

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart or 8x8-inch baking dish.
• Spread half of the stuffing (about 1.5 cups) in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared dish.
• Arrange the chopped turkey over the stuffing.
• In a small bowl, stir together 1/4 cup (60g) of mayonnaise and the cranberry sauce. Spread this mixture evenly over the turkey.
• In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1/2 cup (110g) of mayonnaise, the mashed potatoes, and the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
• Spoon the potato mixture over the cranberry layer, spreading it carefully to cover the turkey.
• Crumble the remaining 1.5 cups of stuffing over the top of the potato layer.
• Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden. The internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set for easier slicing.

Notes

Food Safety: Since you are reheating leftovers, it is important to ensure the casserole reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the dish to check.

Variations: Feel free to add a cup of leftover green beans or corn with the turkey layer for extra vegetables.

Crispier Topping: For a crispier top, you can place the casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking. Watch it closely to prevent it from burning.

Dish Size: A 9x9-inch dish also works, but the layers will be thinner and may require a slightly shorter baking time.

Keyword Casserole, leftover turkey stuffing casserole, leftovers, Thanksgiving, turkey