If you’re looking for a heartwarming, comforting dish that truly feels like a hug on a plate, then this Country Turkey Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s a brilliant way to transform leftover turkey into a rich, savory meal that’s both cozy and packed with flavor. The combination of creamy mushroom soup, turkey gravy, fresh herbs, and that irresistible stuffing topping makes every bite deeply satisfying and wonderfully textured. Whether it’s a midweek dinner or a casual gathering, this casserole brings people to the table with smiles and full hearts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples that come together perfectly to create a balanced dish rich in flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a key role in making this casserole both hearty and aromatic.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup (10 oz.): The creamy base that adds moisture and a boost of mushroom flavor to this dish.
- Campbell’s Turkey Gravy (10 oz.): Intensifies the turkey taste and brings savory depth with every spoonful.
- Milk (1 cup): Helps to thin out the mixture for a smooth, luscious texture.
- Thyme (1 teaspoon): A fragrant herb that complements the turkey with a subtle earthy note.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon, diced): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.
- Celery (1 cup): Gives a fresh crunch and slight peppery undertone to brighten the dish.
- Carrots (1 cup, diced): Adds sweetness and color, making the casserole visually appealing.
- Onion (1/2 cup, diced): Provides a savory base flavor that melds beautifully with all the other ingredients.
- Leftover Turkey (2 cups, cubed): The star protein, tender and packed with flavor.
- Water (2 1/2 cups): Used to cook the stuffing perfectly, ensuring a moist topping.
- Unsalted Butter (8 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps bring the stuffing topping together with a golden crust.
- Stove Top Savory Herbs Stuffing Mix (12 oz., 2 boxes): This gives a wonderful herby crunch and ties all the flavors together wonderfully.
How to Make Country Turkey Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Casserole Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Next, take a 13×9-inch casserole dish and give it a good spray with non-stick cooking spray so your casserole won’t stick and will release easily once cooked.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Turkey Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, turkey gravy, thyme, black pepper, diced celery, carrots, onion, and the cubed leftover turkey. This mixture forms the flavorful base of your casserole, melding creamy, savory, and herbaceous notes that make this recipe so irresistible.
Step 3: Pour into the Prepared Dish
Transfer the combined turkey mixture evenly into your greased casserole dish. This is where the magic will happen as the flavors bubble up during baking.
Step 4: Cook the Stuffing Mixture
In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, melt the butter and add the water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then stir in the Stove Top Savory Herbs Stuffing Mix. This step infuses the stuffing with buttery goodness and makes it perfectly fluffy yet substantial for your topping.
Step 5: Layer the Stuffing Inside the Casserole
Scoop half of the prepared stuffing mixture into the casserole dish on top of the turkey mixture. This layering creates a wonderful textural contrast inside your casserole, keeping things moist and flavorful all through.
Step 6: Add the Remaining Stuffing on Top
Spread the remaining stuffing mixture evenly over the casserole for a golden, crispy topping once baked. This crunchy layer adds the perfect finish to your dish.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. During this time, the casserole will bubble and cook through, while the stuffing topping becomes delightfully crisp and golden brown.
Step 8: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes. This rest time allows everything to set and makes serving easier without losing that comforting warmth.
How to Serve Country Turkey Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thyme on top adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma that brightens up the rich casserole beautifully. For those who love a little zest, a light drizzle of cranberry sauce on the side complements the savory flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Country Turkey Casserole pairs perfectly with simple green salads dressed in vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or steamed green beans also bring a nice crisp texture and vibrant green contrast to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with a small sprig of thyme or rosemary. You can also add a side of warm crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up every bit of the delicious gravy and stuffing flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy next-day meals that taste just as great.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Assemble it but don’t bake; cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as usual for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the casserole in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the crispy stuffing topping, unlike the microwave which might make it soggy.
FAQs
Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?
Absolutely! Just cook and dice fresh turkey before adding it to the mixture. Using leftover turkey is convenient, but fresh turkey will work just as well and provide great flavor.
Is there a substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute cream of chicken or cream of celery soup. Each will give a slightly different flavor but will keep the creamy texture intact.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and gluten-free condensed soup options. Make sure to check the gravy ingredients as well to keep it all gluten-free.
What if I want it spicier?
Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the turkey mixture can add a nice kick without overpowering the comforting flavors of this recipe.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just double or triple the ingredients and use a larger casserole dish or multiple dishes. The baking time might need a little adjustment depending on the depth of the casserole, but the process stays the same.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say that trying this Country Turkey Casserole Recipe will quickly turn it into one of your go-to comfort foods. It’s simple to prepare, wonderfully filling, and packed with flavors that bring warmth to the dining table. Give it a go—you just might find yourself making it again and again, especially when you want to transform leftover turkey into something spectacular.
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Country Turkey Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Country Turkey Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish combining tender leftover turkey with creamy mushroom soup, savory turkey gravy, and a crispy stovetop stuffing topping. Perfect for a family meal or holiday leftovers, this casserole bakes to golden perfection in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Sauce and Filling
- 10 oz Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup
- 10 oz Campbell’s Turkey Gravy
- 1 cup Milk
- 1 teaspoon Thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (ground)
- 1 cup Celery (diced)
- 1 cup Carrots (diced)
- 1/2 cup Onion (diced)
- 2 cups Leftover Turkey (cut into small cubes)
Stuffing
- 2 1/2 cups Water
- 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
- 12 oz Stove Top Savory Herbs Stuffing Mix (2 boxes of 6 oz each)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) and prepare a 13×9 inch casserole dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix filling ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, turkey gravy, thyme, black pepper, diced celery, carrots, onion, and cubed leftover turkey. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Transfer mixture to casserole dish: Pour the combined turkey and vegetable mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Prepare stuffing: In a saucepan over medium heat, bring 2 1/2 cups of water and 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter to a boil. Once boiling, add the Stove Top savory herbs stuffing mix and stir well to combine, letting the stuffing absorb the liquid.
- Incorporate stuffing into casserole: Remove the stuffing mixture from the heat. Spoon half of the prepared stuffing into the casserole dish, mixing it into the turkey and vegetable mixture evenly.
- Add remaining stuffing as topping: Spread the remaining half of the stuffing evenly on top of the casserole to create a crispy topping when baked.
- Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes until the stuffing topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and the casserole to set.
Notes
- Using leftover cooked turkey saves time and enhances flavor.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different twist.
- Diced vegetables add texture and nutrition; feel free to add peas or green beans if desired.
- Ensure the stuffing mixture is not too watery before adding to the casserole to avoid sogginess.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it firm up for easier serving.
