Dinner

Leftover Turkey Casserole with Apple, Sage, and Roasted Vegetables Recipe

ByEthan Lark November 11, 2025November 11, 2025

Introduction

This leftover turkey casserole is a comforting way to transform your holiday leftovers into a warm, satisfying meal. Combining tender turkey, roasted vegetables, and a flavorful apple and sage sauce, it’s perfect for cozy evenings.

A white pot filled with a stew showing three layers: the top layer has golden roasted potatoes and bright orange carrot pieces; the middle layer contains tender shredded chicken with a light brown and white color; the bottom layer has a mix of cooked white potatoes and bits of herbs scattered throughout, all sitting on a wooden board with a white marbled cloth nearby and a wooden spoon partially inside the pot. 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 flavor.
Step 3: Add the plain flour to the pan and stir well to combine, cooking for another minute.
Step 4: Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 5: Stir in the wholegrain mustard and runny honey, mixing until the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Add the shredded leftover turkey and diced roasted vegetables to the pan. Cover and simmer gently for 15 minutes, until the turkey is piping hot.
Step 7: Season to taste and serve warm with mashed potatoes or jacket potatoes.

Tips & Variations

Use whatever roasted vegetables you have on hand to customize the casserole.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for a few minutes before adding the turkey and vegetables.
Fresh sage works beautifully if available, but dried sage is a great substitute.
Add a splash of cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for a richer casserole.

Storage

Store any 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, adding a splash of stock or water if the sauce has thickened.

How to Serve

The image shows a white pot filled with a cooked stew. The dish has multiple layers: the bottom has chunks of golden-brown roasted potatoes, mixed with bright orange carrot slices. On top and around, there are pieces of shredded cooked chicken with a light beige color. The dish also contains softer potato cubes with a pale yellow color, all coated in a light broth or sauce. A wooden spoon rests inside, stirring some of the ingredients. The pot is placed on a round wooden board on top of a white marbled surface with a beige cloth nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?

Yes, you can use freshly cooked turkey. Simply shred the cooked meat and add it at the same stage in the recipe.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cool it completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.