The Best Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole

A cozy layered casserole made with Thanksgiving stuffing, turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and optional cheddar cheese. It is an easy 6–8 serving dinner that uses prepared leftovers beautifully.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 cups Prepared leftover stuffing or dressing
3 cups Cooked turkey, chopped or shredded
1 1/2 cups Turkey or chicken gravy, warmed
2 cups Leftover mashed potatoes

Serving

1 cup Whole-berry or jellied cranberry sauce

Optional Toppings

1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese

For the Dish

2 tablespoons Butter or cooking spray

Optional Garnish

2 tablespoons Chopped fresh parsley

Method

Step-by-Step

Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Spread the stuffing evenly across the bottom of the prepared dish. If it seems dry, moisten it with 1/4 to 1/2 cup turkey stock before layering.
Add the chopped or shredded turkey in an even layer, then spoon about 1 cup of warm gravy over the turkey.
Spread the mashed potatoes over the turkey. If they are stiff from refrigeration, stir in a few tablespoons of milk, cream, or gravy first.
Spoon the remaining gravy over the potatoes and sprinkle the cheddar cheese on top if using.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20–25 minutes, until hot throughout.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve hot with cranberry sauce and additional warmed gravy. Finish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For refrigerated leftovers used directly from the refrigerator, allow 40–45 minutes of baking time rather than 30 minutes. Keep the casserole covered for most of the bake so the turkey and potatoes stay moist, and refrigerate leftovers promptly.