Tired of Thanksgiving leftovers? This creamy and healthy turkey casserole is the perfect solution. Made from scratch with simple ingredients like chickpea pasta and a rich vegetable sauce, it's a guilt-free comfort food meal the whole family will love. Best of all, it comes together easily without any canned soups.
For even more creative ways to use up holiday extras, explore our complete guide to healthy thanksgiving leftover recipes. And for cozy, simple meals any time of year, be sure to browse all of our healthy casseroles that are perfect for any occasion.
This recipe builds its creamy, savory flavor from a base of sautéed vegetables, unsalted broth, and low-fat milk, creating a rich sauce without relying on high-sodium canned cream soups. By using nutrient-dense chickpea pasta, the casserole also gets a significant boost in fiber and plant-based protein compared to traditional versions.
The key is to have enough sauce to coat all the ingredients, as the pasta will absorb liquid while baking. Also, avoid overbaking—cook just until bubbly and heated through. Letting the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving also helps the sauce settle and re-distribute.
A simple homemade cream sauce, like the one in this recipe, is a great substitute. It's made by creating a roux with a small amount of fat (butter/oil) and flour, then whisking in a liquid like milk and broth until it thickens.
Absolutely. You can use the same amount of any short pasta, like shells, rotini, or penne. Cook it al dente according to package directions before adding it to the casserole. Note that this substitution will mean the recipe is no longer gluten-free.
Stored properly in an airtight container, the casserole will last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or a covered dish in the oven until warm.
If you enjoyed this easy and healthy leftover turkey casserole, you'll love these other simple comfort food recipes. From cozy soups to satisfying one-pot meals, this list provides more great ideas for delicious and guilt-free weeknight dinners.
Looking for the perfect side dish or another healthy recipe to round out your meal plan? This collection features everything from light salads that pair perfectly with casseroles to other must-try healthy main courses. Plus check out our guide to planning a tasty (and healthy) holiday meal!
You can assemble this entire casserole up to 1 day in advance without the breadcrumb topping. Cover the dish tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, then add the topping and bake as directed, adding 10-15 minutes to the total cook time if needed.
Recipe yields 1 servings
If you don't have chickpea pasta, you can use whole wheat, regular, or any other gluten-free short pasta.
Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix. Mushrooms, green beans, or corn would all be delicious additions.
To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the butter with more olive oil or a vegan butter, and use an unsweetened, plain plant-based milk like almond or cashew milk.
For extra flavor, you can add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb topping.
Wondering what to do with your holiday leftovers? Transform your remaining turkey into another delicious and healthy meal with these simple and creative recipe ideas. From a comforting Turkey Pot Pie to a hearty Turkey Stew, get inspired to repurpose your leftovers into an entirely new dish.