Creamy Turkey Casserole

This comforting layered bake turns leftover turkey into a showstopping weeknight dinner that feels seasonal and special. With a creamy mashed potato layer, melty mozzarella, tangy cranberry, and a crunchy stuffing topping, every forkful is a little celebration. It comes together quickly and is forgiving with substitutions, so it is perfect when you need a simple one pan meal with big flavor. If you love casseroles with cozy textures, also try this savory ground turkey zucchini casserole for another family favorite.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This casserole is a great choice because it uses familiar ingredients you likely already have on hand and elevates them into a layered comfort dish. The stuffing provides a buttery, herby crust that contrasts with the creamy mashed potato topping. Using mayonnaise in two ways keeps the mashed potato layer extra silky while blending with the cranberry for a glossy, sweet tang that wakes up the turkey. It is a forgiving recipe for cooks of any skill level and scales easily for feeding a crowd or making leftovers. The hands on time is short and most of the work is simply layering, which makes it a relaxed but impressive option. If you want a different crowd pleaser with similar comfort vibes, check out this corn cheddar casserole for another cozy table addition.

Flavor and Texture

The flavor profile balances savory, sweet, and creamy elements so each bite feels complete. The turkey gives mild savory notes while the cranberry mayo adds bright berry sweetness that cuts through the richness. Mashed potatoes and Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise create a smooth, luscious layer that becomes slightly golden in the oven. Mozzarella melts into strings and pockets of gooey cheesiness that children and adults both love. The final stuffing layer crisps up, offering a crunchy contrast that makes the casserole visually inviting and texturally satisfying.

Ingredients

– 4 cups prepared Stuffing, divided
– 1 lb. coarsely chopped cooked Turkey (about 4 cups)
– ¾ cup Hellmann’s® Real Mayonnaise, divided
– ¼ cup fresh whole berry cranberry sauce
– 2 cups Mashed Potatoes
– 1 ½ cups Shredded Mozzarella
– Fresh dried cranberries for garnish (optional)

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees and spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Spoon in half of the stuffing and spread evenly, then top with the chopped turkey.
3. Combine the cranberry sauce with ¼ cup of the Hellmann’s® Real Mayonnaise and spread the mixture evenly over the turkey.
4. In a large bowl, combine the remaining mayonnaise with mashed potatoes and shredded mozzarella, then spread this mixture evenly over the other ingredients and top with the remaining stuffing.
5. Bake for 40 minutes or until hot and bubbling in the center.
6. Let the casserole stand for 10 minutes, then garnish with dried cranberries if desired and serve.

Tips for Best Results

Use coarsely chopped turkey so the meat stays juicy and has a nice bite in every layer. If your mashed potatoes are very thick, loosen them with a splash of milk before mixing with mayonnaise for easier spreading. Taste the cranberry and mayo mixture before layering and adjust sweetness with a little honey if your cranberries are very tart. For extra crunch, toast the stuffing briefly in a skillet with a pat of butter before using it as the topping. Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it set so the slices hold their shape when served.

Storage and Make Ahead

This casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in a 350 degree oven until heated through. To make ahead, assemble the casserole through the topping stage, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. For longer storage, freeze baked portions and thaw overnight before reheating.

Final Thought

This creamy turkey casserole is the kind of comforting dish that turns simple leftovers into a centerpiece. It is easy to assemble, visually appealing, and flexible for family tastes. Keep the ingredients simple, layer with care, and enjoy a cozy, flavorful meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

For a similar spin on this layered comfort dish with helpful tips and variations, see the Creamy Turkey Casserole (Budget-Friendly!) on Spend With Pennies.

Print