Let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to transform those leftover turkey scraps into something magical — a deliciously cheesy turkey casserole with savory spinach pesto! I’ve made this dish countless times and every single time, it’s been a hit with family and friends. Trust me, once you experience the creamy, cheesy goodness mingling with the vibrant flavors of spinach and tender turkey, it’ll become your go-to recipe for those leftover turkey nights. It’s not just a casserole; it’s a comforting hug in a dish that everyone will rave about!
Why You’ll Love This Deliciously Cheesy Turkey Casserole
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand, so it’s incredibly adaptable.
- Deliciously Cheesy: Who doesn’t love a casserole loaded with gooey melted cheese? It’s a flavor explosion!
- Visually Appealing: The vibrant green spinach pesto and golden cheese create an irresistible look that’s sure to impress.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prep it in advance and bake it when you’re ready, perfect for meal prepping!
The Secret to Perfect Leftover Turkey Casserole
The secret to mastering this leftover turkey casserole lies in the savory spinach pesto. This magical sauce adds a burst of flavor that elevates the dish to a whole new level. I recommend using fresh spinach if possible, but frozen works too. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture. Trust me, this small step will ensure your casserole doesn’t turn out watery. Blend the pesto to a smooth consistency to create that luxurious texture that will cling to the turkey and pasta. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to bring everything together!
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“I couldn’t believe how quickly this dish came together! My kids devoured it and asked for seconds. Definitely a new family favorite!” – Jessica T.
“This casserole is so comforting and delicious! I love how the spinach pesto gives it a unique twist. I’ll be making it every Thanksgiving!” – Mark H.
“I’ve never been a huge fan of leftovers, but this turkey casserole has changed my mind! It’s like a whole new meal!” – Amanda L.
Creative Variations to Try
- Italian Twist: Add sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean flair.
- Mexican Style: Mix in black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a zesty kick.
- Creamy Mushroom: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms and a splash of cream for richness.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat.
Bonus: For an extra crunch, top with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs before baking!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use chicken instead of turkey? Absolutely! This casserole works wonderfully with any leftover cooked poultry.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
What can I substitute for spinach? Kale or Swiss chard can also be great alternatives if you’re looking for something different.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- This casserole can last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months — just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
- Serve with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Perfect Occasions for Leftover Turkey Casserole
- Post-Thanksgiving feasts when turkey leftovers are plentiful.
- Casual family dinners that need a comforting touch.
- Potluck gatherings where you want to impress with minimal effort.
- Game nights with friends — everyone loves a cheesy casserole!
- Cozy movie nights at home — it’s the perfect comfort food!
The Complete Recipe
Thanks for following along! Now, let’s dive into the recipe so you can enjoy this deliciously cheesy turkey casserole with savory spinach pesto.
Deliciously Cheesy Turkey Casserole with Savory Spinach Pesto
Ingredients
- 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 1 cup spinach, fresh or frozen (thawed and drained)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup spinach pesto
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tip: Feel free to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for more flavor and nutrition!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Mix It Up!
In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, spinach, garlic powder, and half of the mozzarella. Stir until everything is well mixed. The colors should be vibrant, and the smell will be heavenly!
Step 3: Add the Pesto
Next, fold in the spinach pesto. This is where the magic happens! The pesto should coat the pasta and turkey, giving it a beautiful green hue and a burst of flavor. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and sprinkle the parmesan cheese on top. This will give it that golden, bubbly finish we all crave!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. The aroma will be irresistible and may have your neighbors knocking at your door!
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely, making it easier to serve. Plus, it will be the hardest wait of your life!
Nutritional Information: Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, and 18g fat. It’s a hearty meal that fills you up while utilizing those holiday leftovers!
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try this deliciously cheesy turkey casserole with savory spinach pesto as I was when I first discovered it! It’s truly a game-changer for using up leftover turkey, and I promise it will become a cherished recipe in your household. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this comforting dish that’s bound to bring smiles to the dinner table. Happy cooking!