Ultimate Comfort Creamy Turkey Casserole – Easy Recipe for Leftover Turkey

 Leftover turkey sitting in your fridge, quietly judging you? Yeah, we’ve all been there. After the big meal, excitement fades… but the turkey keeps showing up. That’s exactly where this Ultimate Comfort Creamy Turkey Casserole saves the day.

This dish turns leftovers into a cozy, cheesy, pasta-packed dinner that feels brand new. Think creamy sauce, tender turkey, melty cheese, and carbs doing what carbs do best—making everyone happy. IMO, this is one of those Casserole Recipes Turkey lovers bookmark immediately.

Weeknights can be chaotic. Work runs late, kids are hungry, and nobody wants to think too hard about dinner. That’s why Turkey Casserole Recipes Easy like this one are pure gold. Everything comes together fast, uses simple pantry ingredients, and hits the table steaming and satisfying. What more do we want?

FYI, this recipe shines for Dinners With Leftover Turkey because it’s flexible. White meat, dark meat, chunks, shreds—toss it all in. That’s why it also works beautifully for Meals With Leftover Turkey when you’re cleaning out the fridge but still want something comforting.

Looking for fresh Turkey Dinner Leftover Ideas that don’t feel repetitive? This casserole delivers. It’s hearty enough to feel special, but easy enough to pull off on a busy night. No fancy steps. No stress.

It also fits right in with classic Turkey Breast Casserole Recipes, making it a go-to Recipe For Leftover Turkey after holidays or meal prep weeks. Honestly, it deserves a spot among your favorite Turkey Dishes Recipes and everyday Recipes Using Turkey.

Warm, creamy, and family-approved—this casserole proves leftovers don’t have to be boring. Save this for later… your future self will thank you.

Ultimate Comfort Creamy Turkey Casserole – Easy Recipe for Leftover Turkey

Ultimate Comfort Creamy Turkey Casserole – Easy Recipe for Leftover Turkey

A cozy, cheesy casserole that transforms leftover turkey into a comforting pasta bake the whole family will love.


Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked turkey breast, chopped or pulled apart
  • 3 cups cooked pasta (macaroni, penne, or rotini)
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (Gouda or mozzarella optional)
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 2 cups whole milk (half-and-half optional)
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (gluten-free works)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (7–9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  3. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth. Simmer about 5 minutes until thickened.
  4. Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese and cheddar until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme or Italian seasoning.
  5. In a bowl, combine pasta, turkey, and peas. Pour sauce over and mix gently.
  6. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle Parmesan on top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
  8. Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

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