Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the aroma of roasted turkey, sweet potatoes, and all those cozy spices that remind us of home. I can’t tell you how much I love gathering around the table with family, sharing stories, and, of course, indulging in delicious food. Now, let me introduce you to my go-to Thanksgiving casserole! This dish is a true gem because it combines all those traditional flavors we adore into one hearty, convenient recipe. It’s perfect for using up leftover turkey, and trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser. With creamy mushroom soup, crunchy fried onions, and a sprinkle of cheese on top, every bite feels like a warm hug. So, whether you’re hosting a big feast or just looking for an easy way to celebrate, this casserole is your ticket to Thanksgiving bliss!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded – Leftover turkey works great here, but any cooked turkey will do!
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed – Fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re bite-sized for easy eating.
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup – This adds the creaminess and that classic flavor we all love.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Go for sharp cheddar for an extra punch of flavor!
• 1 cup crispy fried onions – These give the casserole a delightful crunch on top.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Because garlic makes everything better, right?
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – A little extra onion flavor to round it out.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Always season to your preference for the best flavor!

How to Prepare the Thanksgiving Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps cook everything evenly and gives your casserole that golden, bubbly top we all crave. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Now, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your shredded turkey, trimmed green beans, and that creamy cream of mushroom soup. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I like to use a spatula or a sturdy spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined—make sure every bite has a bit of that delicious flavor! You want the turkey and veggies to be evenly coated in the soup, so don’t rush this part.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Next, it’s time to bring it all together! Grease a casserole dish—any size will do, but I usually go for a 9×13 inch one for this recipe. Spread the turkey and green bean mixture evenly into the dish, making sure it fills the corners and is nice and smooth on top. This is where the magic starts happening!

Step 4: Add Toppings

Let’s make this casserole shine! Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, making sure to cover all the delicious turkey and veggies. Then, add those crispy fried onions—this is my favorite part! They’ll create that perfect crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Step 5: Bake

Pop your assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and bubbly, and the whole kitchen smells heavenly! Just keep an eye on it towards the end so it doesn’t over-bake. Once it’s ready, let it cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps it set up a bit for easier serving.

Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Casserole

• Quick Preparation: This casserole comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy holiday cooking!
• Use of Leftovers: It’s a fantastic way to repurpose leftover turkey, reducing waste and maximizing flavor.
• Comforting Flavors: The blend of creamy mushroom soup, tender turkey, and crunchy onions brings all the cozy feelings of Thanksgiving to your table.
• Feeds a Crowd: With six hearty servings, it’s great for family gatherings or potlucks, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to serve, making your holiday stress-free.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own; the possibilities are endless!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your Thanksgiving casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips for success that I’ve gathered over the years:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: If you can, opt for fresh green beans instead of frozen. They add a vibrant color and crunch that really elevates the dish!
• Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to throw in other veggies! Carrots, corn, or even peas can add some fun flavors and textures. Just chop them small so they cook evenly.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack or even a sprinkle of Parmesan can give a delightful twist.
• Make It Ahead: If you’re short on time, prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and pop it in the fridge. When it’s time to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Season to Taste: Always taste your mixture before baking! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A little extra garlic powder can also amp up the flavor!
• Leftover Magic: This casserole is perfect for using up holiday leftovers. If you have extra stuffing or mashed potatoes, feel free to layer them in for even more deliciousness!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a Thanksgiving casserole that’s not just good, but truly memorable. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delicious Thanksgiving casserole. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific ingredients you choose and their quantities, but this should give you a good idea:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

This casserole is not only comforting and delicious, but it also packs a good amount of protein from the turkey and cheese, making it a satisfying meal option. Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s a hearty dish that can nourish you and your loved ones!

FAQ About Thanksgiving Casserole

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! One of the best things about this Thanksgiving casserole is its versatility. You can easily swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal favorites. Carrots, corn, or even broccoli make fantastic additions. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly alongside the turkey and green beans. It’s all about making this dish your own!

How can I prepare this in advance?

If you’re looking to save time on the big day, you can definitely make this casserole ahead of time! Just prepare everything up until the baking step, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the cover and pop it in the oven. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge. This way, you can enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving!

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious Thanksgiving casserole leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have some left after your big feast, you’ll want to keep them safe and tasty for another meal. Start by allowing the casserole to cool completely at room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can also cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil if that’s easier. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, so you can enjoy those comforting flavors for a few more days!

Now, when it comes to reheating, the best method is to pop it back in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake it for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through and bubbly again. If you want to get that crispy topping back, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of baking to let it crisp up nicely. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover them to keep the moisture in. Either way, you’ll be back to enjoying this cozy dish in no time!

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Thanksgiving Casserole: 6 Steps to Comforting Bliss

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A hearty Thanksgiving casserole that combines traditional flavors in a convenient dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 2 cups green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix shredded turkey, green beans, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until heated through and the top is golden brown.

Notes

• Use leftover turkey for quick preparation.
• Feel free to add other vegetables.
• Can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: thanksgiving casserole