Dinner

Leftover Turkey Casserole with Apples and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

ByHailey Reed November 10, 2025November 10, 2025

Introduction

This leftover turkey casserole is a comforting and flavorful way to transform your Thanksgiving or roast dinner remnants into a hearty new meal. With a touch of honey and mustard, plus warming sage and tender roasted vegetables, it’s perfect for cozy evenings.

A white pot filled with a stew made of several layers: the bottom has chunky pieces of golden roasted potatoes with crispy edges; mixed throughout are tender, shredded chicken pieces in a light broth; bright orange carrot slices add color; bits of fresh herbs are scattered on top, giving a touch of green; a woman's hand holds a wooden spoon resting inside the pot. The pot sits on a textured wooden board, placed on a white marbled surface with a soft beige cloth in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 onions, finely chopped
1 eating apple, cored and chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried sage, or 5 sage leaves, chopped
2 tbsp plain flour
300ml vegetable or chicken stock
2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
2 tbsp runny honey
400g-500g leftover turkey, shredded
About 350g leftover roasted vegetables (roast potatoes, parsnips, celeriacs, carrots), chunkily diced

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a casserole or deep pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and chopped apple, frying gently until softened.
Step 2: Stir in the sage and cook for 1 minute to release its aroma.
Step 3: Sprinkle in the plain flour and stir well to combine with the onion and apple mixture.
Step 4: Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Step 5: Add the wholegrain mustard and runny honey, mixing thoroughly into the sauce.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the shredded turkey and diced roasted vegetables.
Step 7: Cover the pan and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes until the turkey is piping hot throughout. Season to taste.
Step 8: Serve warm, ideally with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy jacket potatoes.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche just before serving.
Use fresh sage if you have it, but dried works well too—just adjust the amount to taste.
Swap out the apple for pears if you prefer a milder sweetness.
To make it vegetarian, omit the turkey and add more roasted vegetables or cooked beans.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot before serving.

How to Serve

A white round pot with two handles containing a stew made of several layers: on the bottom, chunks of cooked potatoes with soft golden-brown edges and orange carrot slices; mixed with shredded light-colored chicken pieces scattered throughout; some small green herbs sprinkled on top; a wooden spoon resting inside the pot partially lifting some of the stew; the pot is placed on a round wooden board over a white marbled surface with a white cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I freeze the leftover turkey casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating thoroughly.