Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna is an innovative and delicious way to use up the holiday feast’s remnants. If you’re like many people, you might find yourself with an abundance of turkey, stuffing, and other delightful dishes after the Thanksgiving festivities. This recipe transforms those traditional leftovers into a warm, comforting lasagna that brings together all the flavors of the season. Imagine each layer of luscious turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes melding into one scrumptious dish—perfect for cozying up with on chilly days!
Not only does Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna save you from food waste, but it also serves as a delightful treat for you and your family. The combination of creamy ricotta cheese mixed with a hint of sweet cranberry sauce elevates the dish, giving it a unique gourmet flair. It’s a quick solution for dinner, one that you can share with loved ones, making every bite a heavenly reminder of the holidays. Additionally, it holds up beautifully in the refrigerator, which means you can enjoy the comforting flavors long after the holiday meal has passed.
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna:
- Flavorful Combination: Enjoy the familiar flavors of Thanksgiving, layered intricately in one hearty dish.
- Easy to Prepare: Assemble it in just around 30 minutes, then let the oven do the work!
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This lasagna serves as a warm hug for your soul during colder days.
- Reduces Food Waste: Utilize all your leftovers rather than tossing them away.
- Versatile Dish: Feel free to customize with additional vegetables or proteins you have on hand.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into crafting your Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for even baking. While the oven warms, gather a 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help your lasagna slices remain intact once baked.
To make the ricotta filling, use a mixing bowl and whisk. Having measuring cups and spoons ready will also make your process smoother. Lastly, ensure your turkey is shredded, and your vegetables are prepped to facilitate a seamless layering experience. Set everything out on the counter and create an assembly line to streamline the preparation of your lasagna.
Ingredients
This comforting lasagna blends a variety of ingredients that not only add flavor but also a fulfilling texture.
- 3 cups cooked, shredded turkey (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups turkey gravy (divided)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups leftover stuffing or dressing
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh herbs (like thyme or sage)
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes or regular mashed potatoes (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked Brussels sprouts, shredded (divided)
- 1 (10 oz) package no-boil lasagna noodles
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Oven & Dish
Start by getting your oven ready at a cozy 375°F. While that’s preheating, take your 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a gentle spritz of cooking spray. This ensures that your delicious lasagna won’t stick to the pan and will slide out beautifully when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, cranberry sauce, a large egg, kosher salt, and your choice of herbs. The combination of the creamy ricotta and the sweet touch from the cranberry will create a rich filling that perfectly balances the savory elements of the dish. Make sure all the ingredients are well incorporated for a uniform flavor throughout.
Step 3: Layering the Lasagna
Take 1/2 cup of the turkey gravy and spread it evenly over the base of the baking dish; this will add moisture and flavor to the first layer. Next, add 1/3 of the no-boil lasagna noodles. On top of that, layer half of the mashed potatoes, followed by half of the Brussels sprouts, half of the shredded turkey, and a generous dollop of 1/3 of your ricotta mix. This structured layering allows the flavors to meld beautifully as the lasagna cooks.
Step 4: Repeat the Layers
Continue the layering process by adding another 1/3 of the no-boil noodles and the remaining 1/2 cup of gravy over the noodles. Follow it up with the rest of the mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, turkey, and another 1/3 of the ricotta mixture to build a hearty foundation that will hold the lasagna together.
Step 5: Final Layers
Complete your masterpiece with the last set of noodles on top. Spread the remaining turkey gravy generously over the top, making sure it reaches all corners. Add the remaining ricotta cheese and finally, finish it off by layering the leftover stuffing evenly across the top, giving a delightful crunch when baked.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Pop your lasagna into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes. Keep an eye out for that golden-brown top and bubbling goodness. Once it’s done baking, allow the lasagna to cool for approximately 15 minutes before slicing—this rest time helps it set properly so you can serve delicious, intact portions!
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations to consider when making your Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna:
- Protein: Swap out turkey for shredded rotisserie chicken, ham, or even a meatless option like lentils to cater to different dietary preferences.
- Vegetables: In addition to Brussels sprouts, consider adding layers of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or rosemary, or even add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat!
Cooking Notes
- Let your lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set, which makes for easier slicing.
- If you don’t have leftover stuffing, feel free to use store-bought stuffing mix or make a quick batch of bread crumble as a topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy a warm slice of lasagna with a crisp green salad and a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up all that delicious gravy!
Tips
- If you have extra time, consider making your filling the day before to enhance the flavors.
- For a gourmet touch, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy crust.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of cooked ones?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Just ensure that they are cooked sufficiently so they blend well with the lasagna layers.
How do I store leftover lasagna?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
Can I freeze the lasagna?
Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) lasagna for up to 3 months. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then cook as directed.
What can I serve with Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or bread. It’s perfect with a glass of Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir!
Conclusion
Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of family traditions brought together in a delightful new way. With its rich layers of turkey, stuffing, and potatoes, it offers the comfort and joy of the holidays in every bite. Not only does it allow you to cherish those holiday flavors, but it also minimizes waste, making it a responsible choice for your post-Thanksgiving meals. So, whether you’re enjoying this dish yourself or sharing it with family and friends, do so with joy and creativity. Don’t forget to share your own variations or tips with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own!
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Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Thanksgiving Leftovers Lasagna is an innovative and delicious way to use up the holiday feast’s remnants.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked, shredded turkey (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups turkey gravy (divided)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups leftover stuffing or dressing
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh herbs (like thyme or sage)
- 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes or regular mashed potatoes (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups cooked Brussels sprouts, shredded (divided)
- 1 (10 oz) package no-boil lasagna noodles
Instructions
- Start by getting your oven ready at a cozy 375°F. While that’s preheating, take your 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a gentle spritz of cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, cranberry sauce, a large egg, kosher salt, and your choice of herbs.
- Take 1/2 cup of the turkey gravy and spread it evenly over the base of the baking dish; this will add moisture and flavor to the first layer. Next, add 1/3 of the no-boil lasagna noodles…
- Continue the layering process by adding another 1/3 of the no-boil noodles and the remaining 1/2 cup of gravy over the noodles.
- Complete your masterpiece with the last set of noodles on top. Spread the remaining turkey gravy generously over the top.
- Pop your lasagna into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
Notes
Let your lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set, which makes for easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 30 g