Country Turkey Casserole Recipe

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There is something truly comforting and heartwarming about a good casserole, and this Country Turkey Casserole Recipe absolutely delivers. Combining tender leftover turkey with savory cream of mushroom soup, rich turkey gravy, fresh vegetables, and that irresistible buttery stuffing topping, this dish is a cozy embrace on a plate. Whether you’re looking for a clever way to transform holiday leftovers or craving a down-home meal full of flavor and texture, this recipe is an easy, satisfying winner that invites everyone back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Country Turkey Casserole Recipe plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, colors, and textures. Each item is simple but essential, coming together to build that classic, hearty casserole that feels like a warm hug.

• Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (10 oz.): This adds a silky, earthy base that binds all the ingredients together with creamy goodness.
• Campbell’s Turkey Gravy (10 oz.): Infuses savory depth and boosts that classic turkey flavor we all love.
• Milk (1 cup): Lightens the mixture slightly and ensures the sauce has the perfect consistency.
• Thyme (1 teaspoon): A fragrant herb that brings warmth and earthiness to the dish.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon, diced): Adds a gentle kick and balances the richness.
• Celery (1 cup): Offers a fresh crunch and subtle bitterness to brighten the casserole.
• Carrots (1 cup, diced): Sweetness and vibrant color that makes the dish visually inviting.
• Onion (1/2 cup, diced): Deepens the savory foundation with slight sweetness when cooked.
• Leftover Turkey (2 cups, small cubes): The star protein, tender and ready to soak up all the flavors.
• Water (2 ½ cups): Needed to cook the stuffing perfectly and keep everything moist.
• Unsalted Butter (8 tablespoons): Adds richness and makes the stuffing golden and flavorful.
• Stove Top Savory Herbs Stuffing Mix (12 oz., two 6 oz boxes): The crunchy, herb-infused topping that makes this casserole unforgettable.

How to Make Country Turkey Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish

Begin by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 13×9 casserole dish with a non-stick cooking spray. This simple prep step ensures your casserole will slide right out after baking without any fuss, making serving and cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base and Veggies

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, turkey gravy, thyme, and black pepper. Add in your diced celery, carrots, onions, and those lovely turkey cubes. Mix everything thoroughly so each bite has a balanced melody of creamy and savory with bursts of fresh veggies.

Step 3: Transfer the Mixture to Your Casserole Dish

Once mixed, pour all that goodness into the prepared casserole dish. This becomes the hearty heart of your Country Turkey Casserole Recipe, showcasing all those fresh ingredients and rich flavors.

Step 4: Prepare the Stuffing on the Stove

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and add the water, bringing it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, stir in the Stove Top Savory Herbs Stuffing Mix until it’s fully combined. The stuffing will become fluffy and fragrant as it soaks up the buttery liquid.

Step 5: Layer Half the Stuffing Into the Casserole

Spoon half of your freshly made stuffing mixture evenly into the casserole over the turkey and veggies. This step adds a lovely contrast in texture and flavor beneath the top layer.

Step 6: Add the Remaining Stuffing on Top

Next, spread the rest of the stuffing over the casserole surface. This crunchy, herbaceous lid will turn golden and crispy during baking, creating that signature crust every great casserole needs.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly and Golden

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. The kitchen will fill with such inviting aromas, from the thyme-scented gravy to the buttery stuffing finishing into a golden crisp.

Step 8: Let It Rest Before Serving

Once baked, give the casserole about 5 minutes to rest. This brief waiting time allows everything to set nicely, making it easier to serve beautiful, hearty portions that hold their shape.

How to Serve Country Turkey Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

For a final touch, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives on top to add a burst of color and a subtle herbaceous note that contrasts perfectly with the rich casserole. A light drizzle of cranberry sauce on the side offers a bright, slightly tart complement.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even some buttery dinner rolls to soak up all that flavorful sauce. The goal is to keep sides fresh and complementary without competing.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting family-style meal, serve the Country Turkey Casserole Recipe directly from the baking dish on a rustic wooden board with a few sprigs of fresh herbs scattered around. Alternatively, offer individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation that feels a bit more elegant.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Country Turkey Casserole Recipe leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole flavors continue to deepen after resting, so meals later in the week taste just as wonderful as the first serving.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prep ahead. Simply assemble the casserole but hold off on baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a little extra time to ensure it heats through.

Reheating

To reheat, warm individual portions gently in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole in a 350-degree oven until hot and bubbling. Avoid overcooking to keep the turkey tender and the stuffing crisp on top.

FAQs

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?

Absolutely! If you don’t have leftovers, just cook and dice fresh turkey before adding it to the casserole. The flavor will be just as delicious and fresh.

What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?

If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, a cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce would work beautifully without losing the creamy texture.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, just use a gluten-free stuffing mix and check that your soups and gravy are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the Country Turkey Casserole Recipe without worry.

Can I add cheese to this casserole?

Feel free to add shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella on top before baking for a gooey, melty twist. It adds richness and a great flavor dimension.

How can I make the casserole less rich?

Try using low-fat milk and reduced-sodium soups or gravy, and reduce the butter slightly. You can also increase the vegetable content to lighten the overall dish.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Country Turkey Casserole Recipe because it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone around the table with smiles. So straightforward to make, comforting to the soul, and bursting with flavors that feel like home. Give it a whirl the next time you want a satisfying, cozy meal your family will ask for again and again!

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