As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s natural to crave the comforting classics – mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, and all the fixings. However, why settle for the same old recipes year after year? Instead, let’s shake things up with a variety of casserole options that will make your Turkey Day menu shine. Whether you’re working with leftovers or starting from scratch, we’ve got 25 Thanksgiving casseroles to spice up your spread.
From unexpected twists on traditional favorites to bold new flavors, these recipes are sure to delight both old and young. So go ahead, get creative, and bring some excitement to the table. Who says leftovers have to be boring? This year, let’s make Thanksgiving a truly unforgettable feast.
Turkey Pizza Bake
The next time you’re tempted to opt for takeout or struggle through another day of leftovers in Tupperware, why not give a creative twist to your Thanksgiving feast? This delightfully straightforward casserole recipe showcases the ease of repurposing yesterday’s dishes into a scrumptious new meal.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
As Thanksgiving approaches, one superfood stands out as a true showstopper: crunchy and magnificent, it takes center stage in a delicious casserole. To elevate its natural goodness, simply dust with club crackers and finish with a rich, buttery flair that’s sure to win over even the most skeptical of broccoli detractors.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
While we might not always admit it, we do have a weakness for indulgent treats. Take, for instance, a decadent mashed potato casserole smothered in melted cheese and topped with crispy bacon bits. This comforting side dish is more than just a suitable accompaniment to turkey – it’s also the foundation for a variety of creative dishes. Want to take it up a notch?
Try using the leftovers as the base for fluffy potato pancakes, savory empanadas filled with turkey and potatoes, or even Irish colcannon. The possibilities are endless!
Traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe With Leeks
The arrival of carbohydrates on Thanksgiving is a never-ending phenomenon. It’s as if the holiday season has an endless supply of savory delights. We’re thrilled to celebrate this beloved tradition with a flavorful tribute to the quintessential green bean casserole, widely regarded as the best vegetable dish during the holidays (and no, we won’t be swayed by Brussels sprout enthusiasts).
To share in the joy, our tried-and-true Kale and Leek Rice recipe combines the pungency of leeks with the freshness of kale to create a comforting rice casserole. Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey for a delicious twist.
Eggplant And Potato Gratin
Imagine elevating your special moments with a rich and satisfying gratin that combines the bold flavors of your grandmother’s famous eggplant parmesan recipe – but with half the effort! Just picture this delightful dish bubbling away in your inherited slow cooker, surrounded by perfectly cooked potato slices. It’s a match made in heaven, and it brings everything full circle.
Baked Mac And Cheese With Bacon
Say goodbye to bland blue boxes and hello to warm, comforting dishes that evoke the cozy atmosphere of a 24-hour diner. Unlike the pretentious mac and cheese you might find at upscale gatherings, this classic holiday recipe is straightforward and unassuming, with a flavor profile that’s both familiar and inviting. Imagine setting out a checkered tablecloth and letting your worries melt away as you indulge in this comforting treat.
Kale And Bacon Hash Brown Casserole
Packed with bioflavonoids, antioxidants, and other nutrients, this leafy green vegetable is an overachiever in the culinary world. Its unique flavor profile shines when grilled and combined with bold flavors in a savory Thanksgiving casserole. For added richness, serve alongside a generous dollop of sour cream.
Mushroom Pot Pie
Indulge in the rich flavors of a hearty dish where succulent mushrooms mingle with sweet, caramelized onions, carrots, and the subtle depth of brandy, all encased in a golden-brown butter crust that’s sure to warm your senses.
Honey Apple Bread Pudding
In the past, it was common to devour this scrumptious, bubbly treat that masquerades as a pudding right out of the oven in large, scalding bites. The indulgent experience was truly irresistible. However, those days are behind us now.
Sweet Corn And Ricotta Sformato
Sformata, an Italian dish, defies traditional expectations with its unconventional appearance. The name ‘sformata’ literally translates to ‘misshapen’, a fitting description for this unique culinary creation. Despite its unorthodox exterior, the true charm of sformata lies within. Imagine a creamy ricotta filling infused with the sweetness of fresh corn, carefully balanced to create a rich and satisfying flavor profile.
The combination may seem unexpected, but trust that it’s the harmonious union of these ingredients that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
Spicy Cornbread Dressing With Chorizo
While it’s undeniable that certain culinary enhancements can elevate the humble act of dressing, there’s much more to the process than simply adding some fresh herbs and crunchy textures. The following example, infused with bold Mexican flavors, serves as a perfect illustration of this.
Zucchini Parmesan
While zucchinis may be perceived as bland, this simplicity can actually be a huge advantage. The versatility of these vegetables is unparalleled, allowing you to experiment with a wide range of flavors and textures. Take, for example, the charred and crispy baked casserole that combines roasted zucchini, rich homemade tomato sauce, and the salty tang of Parmesan cheese. This straightforward layered dish requires only three ingredients yet delivers an outstandingly delicious result.
Leftover Turkey Casserole
When faced with the daunting task of using up post-Thanksgiving leftovers, incorporating those scraps into a satisfying casserole is a no-brainer. In fact, it’s often as simple as folding in leftover turkey alongside other ingredients to create a delicious and comforting dish. One foolproof approach? Adding cheese – because what’s not to love about that combination?
Pineapple Sweet Potato Casserole
Stuck for Thanksgiving casserole inspiration? Look no further than this classic sweet potato dish, which is sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of tender sweet potatoes and tangy pineapple may seem unexpected, but it’s the perfect harmony that sets this recipe apart. And the best part? It’s just as delicious served at room temperature as it is hot from the oven.
Creamy Parmesan Spinach Bake With Olive Oil
Imagine if Popeye, the iconic sailor man, were to host a Thanksgiving dinner. His menu would likely be filled with bold and savory flavors, perfect for warming up after a long day of battling Bluto. The key to his dishes? A pinch of unexpected spice – in this case, a sprinkle of chili flakes added to traditional Thanksgiving fare. This clever twist gives classic recipes an exciting kick, making them worthy of Popeye’s approval.
Two Bean Tomato And Ciabatta Bake
The magic of cooking lies not only in the quality of its ingredients, but also in the transformative power of heat and time. Take this simple yet satisfying casserole, for instance, where a humble combination of beans and tomato sauce is elevated to new heights. The result is a harmonious balance of tender, succulent beans and sweet, tangy sauce that will leave even the most discerning palates wanting more.
Cauliflower Casserole
While it’s understandable to get lost in the velvety goodness of cauliflower smothered in cheese, taking a step back reveals an entire spectrum of delightful textures and flavors waiting to be explored. A prime example is this delectable casserole, which masterfully combines the natural sweetness of cauliflower with a medley of other mouthwatering elements.
Roasted Squash Pasta With Pancetta And Chard
The harmonious union between pancetta and parmesan is well-established. In this dish, these Italian staples are joined by the natural sweetness of pre-roasted butternut squash and the earthy depth of sage, resulting in a pasta that boldly declares its admiration for crisp green salads and refreshing white wine.
Potato Stuffing Casserole
Transforming leftover stuffing into a delectable casserole is a cinch, requiring minimal effort and yielding maximum satisfaction. Within the span of 60 minutes, you can whip up this simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for repurposing yesterday’s fare into tonight’s feast. A light sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a bright, herbaceous note to each bite.
The Best Brussel Sprouts Casserole
The era of bland, uninspiring Brussels sprouts is behind us. At Cooking Chew, we’re excited to kick off a new era of flavorful and comforting sprout-based dishes, starting with this delightful Thanksgiving recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Meringue Topped Sweet Potato Casserole With Brown Sugar
As we celebrate the natural charm of sweet potatoes, it’s only fitting to elevate our Turkey Day feast with a vibrant portrait of healthy eating. The allure of meringue and soft, sticky sweet potato is undeniable – in fact, another serving is often hard to resist.
Vegetable Crumble
Transform your leftover veggies into a delectable masterpiece by combining them with cayenne pepper, cheese, nuts, and a drizzle of gravy. Next, sprinkle the mixture with a crunchy butter and flour crumble on top for an added textural element. Voilà! You’ll be amazed at how effortlessly you can whip up a scrumptious dish from leftover ingredients. For more innovative ideas to repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers, explore our curated selection of Keto-friendly recipes.
Cauliflower Goat Cheese Casserole
Instead of waiting for inspiration to strike while gazing at your leftovers, take action with this creative solution. This unique casserole recipe transforms humble florets into a nutritious and delicious side dish, banishing any frustration that may be brewing from the bottom of the fridge. With its simplicity and healthier twist, this recipe is sure to save the day for even the most uninspired cooks.
Hoppin’ John Casserole With Cornbread Crust
The tradition of serving sweet potato casserole on New Year’s celebrations can be easily adapted to the Thanksgiving table, bringing a sense of warmth and comfort to your holiday gathering. For those looking for more effortless side dish options, our comprehensive list of 28 Tasty Crockpot Thanksgiving Sides offers a wealth of inspiration.
Lemon Almond Green Bean Casserole Recipe
We had previously considered the idea of carrying a slice of lemon with us at all times – just in case we came across an unexpected green bean. However, this recipe has eliminated the need for such contingency planning and spared us the embarrassment of having to whip out a wedge of citrus at Thanksgiving dinner.
The bottom line
The joy of casseroles on Thanksgiving is undeniable. However, the reality of leftover turkey and veg can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to roast turkey sandwiches for every meal in the weeks that follow. But fear not! We’ve got a multitude of delicious casserole ideas to help you make the most of your leftovers. From classic broccoli bakes to Greek-inspired ziti dishes, our list has something for everyone.
And if you’re looking to start fresh, we’ve also included some innovative recipes to spice up your Thanksgiving celebration. Whether you’re a pro at repurposing leftovers or just looking for a new culinary adventure, our collection of Thanksgiving casserole recipes is sure to satisfy.
