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When the days grow shorter and the nights chillier, many of us find ourselves yearning for the warmth and comfort of home-cooked meals. Comfort food, with its rich flavors and nostalgic connections, plays a significant role in our culinary landscape. It evokes memories of family gatherings, cozy evenings, and the simple joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. Among the myriad of comfort food options, turkey and mashed potatoes stand out as classic ingredients that conjure images of hearty family dinners and festive celebrations.

Homestyle Turkey and Mashed Potato Casserole

Warm up your home this season with a Cozy Homestyle Turkey and Mashed Potato Casserole. This comforting dish perfectly combines leftover turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, and blended vegetables, creating a delightful meal that's great for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. With a golden crust of cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs, it's sure to satisfy cravings and bring everyone together. Dive into this simple recipe and enjoy the heartwarming experience of cooking at home.
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Ingredients
  

For the Casserole:

3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced

4 cups creamy mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)

1 cup turkey or chicken gravy

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

For Topping:

1 cup plain breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons melted butter

1 teaspoon paprika (for added color)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, frozen mixed vegetables, gravy, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are well coated with the gravy, making sure the vegetables are evenly distributed.

      Layer the Casserole: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Evenly spread the turkey mixture on the bottom of the prepared dish, creating a solid layer of filling.

        Add the Mashed Potatoes: Gently spoon the creamy mashed potatoes on top of the turkey layer. Use a spatula to evenly smooth out the mashed potatoes, ensuring every corner is covered to seal in the delicious filling.

          Add Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes, making sure to cover it thoroughly for a gooey, cheesy layer.

            Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs with the melted butter and paprika. Mix well until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the butter and the paprika is fully incorporated for color and flavor.

              Top the Casserole: Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheesy mashed potato layer to create a crunchy, golden topping.

                Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; it’s done when the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling with goodness.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This hearty meal is delicious on its own or can be paired with a fresh, crisp salad for a perfect meal.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 55 minutes | 6 servings