This warm casserole is a fantastic way to use leftover turkey! It combines tender turkey pieces, fluffy eggs, and delicious vegetables all baked together in one dish.
Trust me, it’s like a big, cozy hug on a plate. I love making this when I have extra turkey because it’s easy and feels comforting after a busy day. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Leftover Turkey: This is the star ingredient! You can use white meat, dark meat, or a mix. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken works great too.
Eggs: They bind everything together and add protein. If you’re looking for a vegan option, try using silken tofu blended until smooth or a flaxseed meal mix (1 tbsp flaxseed meal with 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg).
Mixed Vegetables: You can use fresh, frozen, or even canned veggies. If you’re keeping it simple, just carrots and peas are classic. For a twist, add spinach or bell peppers!
Cheese: Cheddar is a favorite for its melty goodness, but you can swap for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a dairy-free cheese for a lighter dish.
Potatoes: Cooked potatoes help with texture. If you want something lighter, use cooked cauliflower. It’s a great healthy substitute!
How Do I Ensure the Casserole Sets Perfectly?
Getting the perfect set for your casserole is all about balancing moisture and cooking time. Here’s how to achieve that:
- Mix the ingredients well so everything is evenly distributed. This ensures that egg can bind everything as it cooks.
- Keep an eye on baking times. Start checking for doneness at 25 minutes; you want it firm in the center, not jiggly.
- If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil halfway through cooking to avoid burning.
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving; it will firm up even more as it rests. Enjoy!
Leftover Turkey Casserole With Egg
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked leftover turkey, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., diced carrots, corn, and peas)
- 1 cup cooked potatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Flavor:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley or dried herbs
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for greasing and sautéing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 25-30 minutes of baking time. You can have a hearty meal ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, you can prepare the baking dish by greasing it with butter or oil so nothing sticks.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a skillet, melt your butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Whisk the Eggs:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and pour in the milk. Whisk together until well combined, and don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper for taste.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the chopped turkey, mixed vegetables, diced potatoes, sautéed onions, and half of the shredded cheese into the egg mixture. Gently stir to combine everything evenly—it should be colorful and look delicious!
5. Pour into the Baking Dish:
Pour your turkey mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with the back of a spoon.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, followed by the breadcrumbs. This will create a nice crispy layer. For a little extra flavor, you can sprinkle chopped parsley or dried herbs over the top too!
7. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. It’s done when the center is firm and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice and serve. Enjoy your hearty leftover turkey casserole with egg!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat Besides Turkey?
Absolutely! This casserole works great with any cooked meat such as chicken or even ham. Just make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces!
Can I Substitute Fresh Vegetables for Frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to chop them finely and sauté them a bit longer so they soften up, or you can steam them lightly before adding them to the mix.
How Should I Store Leftover Casserole?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the fridge. Just increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking directly from the fridge.