Introduction
Nothing says comfort food quite like a warm, creamy Turkey Green Bean Casserole. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a way to repurpose leftover turkey after a big holiday meal. With tender turkey, fresh or canned green beans, and a rich, savory sauce, this casserole is both filling and satisfying.
One great advantage of this recipe is how simple it is to make. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen—just a few basic items that come together beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re cooking from scratch or using leftovers, this dish brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, nutritional benefits, and pro tips to make the best Turkey Green Bean Casserole. Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Before you start cooking, having the right tools makes the process easier and ensures a perfect casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Baking dish – A baking dish works best for even cooking.
- Large skillet – Used to prepare the creamy sauce and mix ingredients evenly.
- Mixing bowls – For combining the turkey, green beans, and sauce before baking.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – Ideal for stirring and spreading the mixture evenly in the dish.
Having everything ready before you begin will make assembling the casserole quick and hassle-free. Now, let’s move on to the ingredients!
Ingredients for Turkey Green Bean Casserole
To make this delicious Turkey Green Bean Casserole, you’ll need a mix of fresh and pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked turkey | 2 cups (shredded) | Leftover or freshly cooked turkey |
| Green beans | 4 cups | Fresh, frozen, or canned (drained) |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) | Adds creaminess and flavor |
| Milk | ½ cup | Helps create a smooth, creamy sauce |
Seasonings & Toppings
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Adds depth of flavor |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | Enhances the savory taste |
| Black pepper | To taste | Adds a touch of heat |
| Fried onions | 1 cup | Crunchy topping for texture |
| Shredded cheese (optional) | ½ cup | For a cheesy version |
You can adjust seasonings based on preference, but these ingredients create a balanced, flavorful casserole. Now, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions!
Instructions to Make Turkey Green Bean Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, creamy Turkey Green Bean Casserole that’s perfect for any meal.
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for consistent baking results.
- Lightly coat a baking dish with oil or cooking spray to avoid sticking.
Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Stir in the shredded turkey, making sure it’s evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Add the Green Beans
- If using fresh or frozen green beans, blanch them for 2-3 minutes in boiling water, then drain.
- If using canned green beans, simply drain them well.
- Add the green beans to the turkey mixture and stir until well combined.
Transfer to the Baking Dish
- Spoon the mixture into the baking dish and smooth it out evenly.
Top & Bake
- Sprinkle the top with fried onions for a crispy texture.
- If using cheese, sprinkle it over the casserole before adding the fried onions.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
Cool & Serve
- Allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your warm, hearty, and flavorful Turkey Green Bean Casserole!
Now that the dish is ready, let’s take a look at its nutritional value.
Nutrition Score (Per Serving)
This Turkey Green Bean Casserole is a balanced meal with a mix of protein, healthy vegetables, and a creamy, satisfying texture. Below is an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: ~450mg (varies based on ingredients used)
Health Benefits
- High in protein: Thanks to the turkey, this dish helps with muscle repair and keeps you full longer. Turkey is also a great source of essential nutrients like B vitamins and selenium—learn more in this detailed guide on All You Need to Know About Turkey Meat from Healthline.
- Rich in fiber: Green beans provide fiber, which supports digestion and heart health.
- Lower in carbs: Compared to traditional casseroles, this recipe is lighter while still being filling.
For a healthier version, you can use low-sodium soup, reduced-fat cheese, and bake without fried onions for fewer calories.
Serving & Storage
How to Serve Turkey Green Bean Casserole
- This casserole is best served warm straight from the oven.
- Pair it with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a refreshing drink to balance out the richness, try this traditional Morir Soñando—a creamy citrus beverage that’s both light and satisfying.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top before serving.
How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Place leftovers in a sealed container and keep chilled for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Wrap tightly and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Warm single servings for 1-2 minutes or until thoroughly heated.
- If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before warming.
By storing it properly, you can enjoy this comforting dish again without losing its delicious texture and flavor!
Now, let’s address some common questions about making the perfect Turkey Green Bean Casserole.
Print
Turkey Green Bean Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
This warm, creamy Turkey Green Bean Casserole is the perfect comfort food for family dinners or potlucks. Made with tender turkey, green beans, and a rich, savory sauce, this easy dish is a great way to repurpose leftovers while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
- 4 cups green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
Seasonings & Toppings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup fried onions
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Add the turkey and stir until evenly coated.
- Prepare the green beans:
- If using fresh or frozen beans, blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes and drain.
- If using canned beans, simply drain well.
- Combine ingredients: Add green beans to the turkey mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top & bake: Sprinkle fried onions over the casserole. If using cheese, add it before the fried onions.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- Cool & serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a healthier version, use low-sodium soup and reduced-fat cheese.
- To prevent a watery casserole, drain canned or thawed green beans well.
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or crusty bread.
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Sodium: ~450mg (varies based on ingredients)
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: turkey casserole, green bean casserole, leftover turkey recipe, easy dinner, comfort food
FAQs About Turkey Green Bean Casserole
Which type of green beans works best for green bean casserole—frozen or canned?
Both work well, but frozen green beans tend to have a fresher texture and vibrant color. Canned green beans are more convenient and require no extra cooking, but they should be drained to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Should I drain green beans for casserole?
Yes! Whether using canned or frozen green beans, draining them helps prevent a watery casserole. If using frozen green beans, consider patting them dry with a paper towel after thawing.
How many cans of green beans equal 4 cups?
Two standard 14.5-ounce cans of green beans (drained) provide about 4 cups of green beans. If using fresh beans, 1 pound of trimmed green beans equals roughly 4 cups when chopped.
How do you make green bean casserole not soggy?
To keep your casserole from becoming too soft or watery:
- Drain canned beans and pat them dry.
- If using frozen beans, thaw and drain them well.
- Bake uncovered so excess moisture can evaporate, making the casserole crispier.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try Turkey Green Bean Casserole
Turkey Green Bean Casserole is a hearty, delicious meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover turkey or simply want a satisfying dish for dinner, this recipe is a perfect choice.
With its creamy texture, tender turkey, and crisp green beans, every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make, store, and reheat, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings.
Give this classic casserole a try, and enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!