Description
This comforting Turkey Stuffing Casserole is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey and transform it into a hearty, flavorful dish. Layers of shredded turkey, rich turkey gravy, tangy whole berry cranberry sauce, tender green beans, and savory prepared stuffing are baked together to create a warm, satisfying meal that’s ideal for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Vegetables
- 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or roughly chopped)
- 2 cups cut green beans (cooked or canned, drained)
Sauces and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups turkey gravy
- 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Base and Fats
- 4 cups prepared stuffing
- 2 Tablespoons butter (divided into small pieces)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Layer Turkey: Spread the shredded or chopped turkey evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming the first layer of the casserole.
- Add Gravy: Pour the turkey gravy over the turkey layer, distributing it evenly to keep the meat moist and flavorful.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: Spoon the whole berry cranberry sauce over the gravy, smoothing it out to create a tangy, sweet layer that complements the savory ingredients.
- Add Green Beans and Season: Spread the cooked and drained green beans evenly over the cranberry sauce layer and season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Top with Stuffing and Butter: Spread the prepared stuffing evenly on top of the green beans, pressing gently to form a compact layer. Dot the surface with the 2 tablespoons of butter divided into small pieces to add richness and help the top brown.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat the casserole thoroughly and allow flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered for Browning: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the stuffing is golden brown and the casserole is hot throughout.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set before serving, which helps the layers hold together and enhances the flavor.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey or freshly cooked turkey for this recipe.
- If you don’t have prepared stuffing, you can use stuffing mix prepared according to package instructions.
- Frozen green beans can be substituted for canned if preferred; just thaw and drain before using.
- For a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after baking uncovered—watch closely to prevent burning.
- Feel free to add herbs like sage or thyme to the gravy for enhanced flavor.
- This recipe can be doubled and baked in two dishes or a larger casserole dish for bigger gatherings.