EASY TURKEY CASSEROLE BY Dr. Cindy Tanzar — TURN LEFTOVERS INTO A DELICIOUS MEAL

Leftover turkey or chicken can be a lifesaver, but sometimes it needs a little creativity to shine. Enter Dr. Cindy Tanzar’s Easy Turkey Casserole—a one-dish wonder that combines the best flavors of Thanksgiving (or any roasted poultry) into a cozy, simple, and satisfying casserole. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with veggies, it’s the kind of recipe your whole family will fight over.

Whether you’re making it after a big holiday or just need a quick, comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole is a go-to for flavor, ease, and minimal cleanup.

⭐ SERVING INFORMATION

Makes: ~4 servings
Each serving is hearty and satisfying, perfect as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

🥘 WHY THIS CASSEROLE WORKS SO WELL

• Uses leftover turkey or chicken to save time and reduce waste
• Packed with vegetables for texture, flavor, and nutrition
• Creamy and cheesy without being heavy
• Flexible—use a pre-made cauliflower risotto or make your own veggie mix

🛒 INGREDIENTS

OPTION 1 (Quick & Easy)

• 3 Tbsp Kerrygold butter, divided
• ¼ cup onion, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, small diced
• ½ tsp dried sage
• ½ tsp Pink Himalayan salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2½ cups cooked turkey or chicken, chopped
• 2 bags Green Giant Cauliflower Risotto Medley (with asparagus and mushrooms)
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella

OPTION 2 (DIY Veggie Version)

• 3 Tbsp Kerrygold butter, divided
• ¼ cup onion, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, small diced
• 4 oz mushrooms, sliced (sauté with onion/celery)
• 2 cups plain frozen cauliflower rice
• ½ cup frozen green beans or asparagus, cut into ½–1” pieces
• ½ tsp dried sage
• ½ tsp Pink Himalayan salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2½ cups cooked turkey or chicken, chopped
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella

👩‍🍳 INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease an 8×8 casserole dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 Tbsp butter. Sauté onion and celery (and mushrooms for Option 2) for 7–8 minutes, until soft.
3. Stir in sage, salt, and pepper. Add 1 Tbsp butter and mix in the thawed cauliflower risotto (or plain cauliflower rice + green beans/asparagus) and chopped turkey/chicken. Cook 1 minute, just to combine.
4. Optional cheesy bake: Transfer mixture into casserole dish and bake 20 minutes. Remove from oven, sprinkle with mozzarella, and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Skip the oven: If you prefer a stovetop version, simply cover and cook until vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add an extra tbsp butter if needed. Serve hot.

🌟 TIPS & IDEAS TO ELEVATE YOUR CASSEROLE

Customize Your Veggies

• Add extra mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus for more texture
• Swap in your favorite seasonal vegetables—just keep it tender and crisp

Flavor Boosters

• Sprinkle with a pinch of smoked paprika for depth
• Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on top brighten the dish

Cheese Variations

• Mozzarella gives a melty, stretchy topping
• Try sharp cheddar or a mix for a bolder flavor

Make-Ahead Magic

• Prep the mixture a day ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready
• Great for weeknight dinners or post-holiday meal planning

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables
• Pair with sliced apples, berries, or melon for a light, fruity contrast

🥳 WHY YOU’LL MAKE THIS AGAIN AND AGAIN

This Easy Turkey Casserole is simple, flexible, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect way to transform leftover turkey or chicken into a comforting, veggie-rich meal that feels indulgent without extra fuss. Creamy, cheesy, and full of holiday-inspired taste, it’s a dish everyone will love—even on a busy weeknight.