Classic Leftover Turkey Casserole

Do not pass this recipe by just because it has the word "leftovers" and "casserole" in it. Please do not pass it by.  Yes, it might be very 1975ish.  But I can assure you your family will love it.

I make this once a year.  Usually a day or two after Thanksgiving when we have leftover turkey, dressing, and gravy invading our fridge.  This year it came a bit early as we had an extra early Thanksgiving dinner with the in-laws this past weekend.  And we still have one more to go!

I will admit there are times during the year that I want to take the effort to cook a whole Thanksgiving dinner just so I can have the leftovers for this dish.  Another plus?  It makes a lot.  We ate it for two dinners in a row with no complaints.  Both kids loved it and we loved it even reheated the second day.

I shared this photo on Instagram right before I put it in the oven and apparently you all have a little casserole love too.

By the way, follow me on Instagram.  Mmmm....k?

And yes, if you are really paying attention you'll see the first set of photos has peas in it. The second photos doesn't not.  This is called a case of "I-have-a-food-blog-and-a-trillion-photos-saved-so-I'm-using-photos-from-last-year-and-this-year-because-I-can."

Leftover Turkey Casserole

4 c. shredded turkey

1/2 c. mayo

1 can cream of mushroom soup or a homemade version

1 c. leftover gravy

1 c. chicken stock

1 c. shredded cheddar cheese

1 c. frozen peas {optional}

1/4 c. Dijon mustard

2 c. dry pasta {I've used all kinds}

1 t. pepper

1 t. garlic salt

1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese

dots of butter

In a large bowl combine all ingredients, except for the chicken stock, Parmesan cheese and butter.  If too thick, thin out with the chicken stock {I always end up adding it}.  Bake covered at 375 degrees for 30 minutes.  Remove lid or foil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and dots of butter.  Bake an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.

Want some more ideas for leftover turkey or Thanksgiving in general?

Emily over at One Lovely Life has six ideas for you for those pesky leftovers.  I'm dying to make the Florentine Puffs. Pretty much heaven in your hand.

Or how about it's just you and hubs home for Thanksgiving?  This smaller version of a Thanksgiving meal looks pretty darn delish as well, courtesy of my friend Kristen over at Iowa Girl Eats.

And finally, let us not forget desserts.  What I live for......you too?  Donna over at The Slow Roasted Italian has 10 great desserts that will make your turkey blush.

Enjoy!