There’s something so heartwarming about a casserole on Thanksgiving, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug on a plate, bringing all those cozy flavors together in one dish. I remember the first time I made this casserole for my family gathering; the aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone couldn’t wait to dig in. The combination of tender turkey, crunchy green beans, and creamy sauce creates a comforting meal that feels just like home. It’s become a staple at our Thanksgiving table, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why! It’s not just food; it’s a celebration of togetherness and gratitude.
Ingredients List
For this delightful casserole, you’ll need some simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Start with 2 cups of cooked turkey, shredded into bite-sized pieces—perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce. Next, grab 1 cup of green beans, trimmed and ready to add a nice crunch. You’ll also need 1 cup of corn, drained to keep things creamy and smooth. The magic continues with 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup to bind everything together. Don’t forget 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that melty goodness on top! Lastly, you’ll want 1 cup of breadcrumbs for that crispy finish, along with a drizzle of 1 tablespoon of olive oil and some 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for seasoning. Salt and pepper to taste, and you’re all set!
How to Prepare the Casserole Thanksgiving
Preparing this comforting casserole is a breeze! First, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C); this step is crucial for that perfectly baked texture. While the oven warms up, grab a large bowl and combine your shredded turkey, green beans, corn, and cream of mushroom soup. Use a spatula to mix everything together until well blended. Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste—don’t be shy, this is where the flavor shines!
Once your mixture is ready, transfer it into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Now for the best part—sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. In a small bowl, mix your breadcrumbs with olive oil, then sprinkle this crunchy topping over the cheese. Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until it’s golden brown and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell divine, and you’ll know it’s almost time to feast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
- Comforting flavors that evoke the warmth of Thanksgiving gatherings.
- Hearty and satisfying, making it great for family meals.
- Uses leftover turkey, reducing waste and maximizing flavor.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
- Bakes to a golden brown perfection, creating a delightful crispy topping.
- One-dish meal means less cleanup—more time to enjoy with loved ones!
Tips for Success
Here are some pro tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time! First, if you don’t have cooked turkey on hand, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a substitute. You can also mix in other veggies like peas or carrots for a colorful twist—just make sure they’re cooked. When baking, keep an eye on the casserole during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning; you want that golden crust, not burnt bits! If you want to make ahead, prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Serve it with a side of cranberry sauce for a delightful contrast that complements the flavors beautifully!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, it’s nice to have a rough idea of what you’re indulging in! This casserole serves about 6, with each serving containing approximately 350 calories. You’ll find 15g of fat, including 7g of saturated fat, and 25g of protein—perfect for filling you up! It also has around 30g of carbohydrates and 2g of sugar. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, as ingredient brands and variations can affect nutrition. It’s always good to enjoy your favorite dishes while being mindful of what’s in them!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this delicious casserole for Thanksgiving? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get:
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen? Absolutely! Just make sure to blanch them first to ensure they’re tender before adding them to the casserole. Fresh veggies can add a lovely crunch!
How do I store leftovers? Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure it’s cooled down before sealing it up!
Can I freeze the casserole? Yes! You can freeze it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and it’ll last for about two months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a little time to ensure it heats through.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup? If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can use cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce for a different flavor profile!
Can I make this casserole vegetarian? Of course! Simply omit the turkey and add more vegetables or even some cooked quinoa for protein. It’ll still be incredibly comforting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this delicious casserole is super easy! Once it’s cooled down, just transfer any remaining casserole into an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy those comforting flavors again!
When you’re ready to dig in, reheating is a breeze. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the casserole back in a greased baking dish. Cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option—just be sure to cover them to keep the moisture in. Enjoy those cozy leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Thanksgiving meal, consider pairing this comforting casserole with some delightful sides! A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a lovely crunch and balances the richness of the casserole. You can’t go wrong with homemade cranberry sauce—its tartness perfectly complements the savory flavors. For a touch of warmth, serve some buttery dinner rolls for soaking up every last bit of that creamy goodness. And if you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of mashed potatoes drizzled with gravy on the side makes for a truly indulgent feast. Trust me, your guests will rave about this spread!
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Casserole Thanksgiving: 7 Warm Flavors That Hug You
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting casserole perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup corn, drained
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine turkey, green beans, corn, and cream of mushroom soup.
- Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- This can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: casserole thanksgiving
