Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna Recipe
Turn your post-holiday fridge into the ultimate comfort meal with this Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna. There’s something so satisfying about layering all your favorite Thanksgiving flavors—turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and more—between tender sheets of pasta, bubbling cheese, and a golden, crispy top. This is not just a resourceful way to clean out your fridge; it’s a crave-worthy, unforgettable dish that transforms leftovers into something magical. Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna might just become your new holiday tradition!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Part of the magic of Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna is just how beautifully it uses what you already have. Every layer brings a special flavor or texture and, together, they create a delicious harmony. Here’s what you’ll need to make your post-holiday masterpiece shine:
- Cooked lasagna noodles: Wide, flat noodles anchor the whole dish and soak up all the holiday flavors. If you’re in a rush, no-boil noodles are great!
- Leftover turkey: Chopped or shredded, this centerpiece protein finds new life between cheesy, savory layers—white or dark meat both work wonders.
- Stuffing: Slices of classic sage or cornbread stuffing bring a herby, hearty depth that’s irresistible.
- Mashed potatoes: They become creamy, flavorful layers that meld the whole lasagna together; fluffy or chunky, both are great!
- Cranberry sauce: Sweet and tart, it cuts through richness and adds festive pops of color in every bite.
- Leftover gravy: Pour it generously—it’s the glue for this lasagna! If you don’t have enough, use a little homemade or store-bought, too.
- Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese: Melty cheese ties it all together and gives you a golden, bubbly top no one can resist.
- Cooked vegetables (green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts): Roasted veggies add pops of color and extra layers of flavor.
- Salt and pepper: Use to taste for seasoning and balance; taste as you go, since leftovers are often well-seasoned already.
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna
Step 1: Gather and Prep All Your Leftovers
Before you dive in, pull all your Thanksgiving leftovers from the fridge. Chop the turkey and vegetables into bite-sized pieces, warm the mashed potatoes and stuffing slightly to make them easier to spread, and get your gravy ready. Having everything prepped and set out assembly-line style will make layering fun and stress-free!
Step 2: Prepare the Lasagna Noodles
If you’re using traditional lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions, then lay them flat to cool slightly. No-boil noodles can go straight into the pan, but giving all noodles a quick rinse in cold water prevents sticking and helps with assembly. The noodles form a sturdy base for all your layers of Thanksgiving goodness.
Step 3: Start Layering the Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna
Begin by spreading a thin layer of gravy on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay down your first layer of noodles, then add dollops of mashed potatoes, turkey, a sprinkle of veggies, a scoop of stuffing, and dots of cranberry sauce. Drizzle gravy over everything, then top with shredded cheese. Repeat the layers until you run out of ingredients, finishing with a generous topping of cheese and an extra drizzle of gravy on top.
Step 4: Bake to Bubbling, Golden Perfection
Cover the lasagna with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and beautifully golden. If you love a crispy cheese top, pop it under the broiler for an extra couple of minutes—but watch closely!
Step 5: Rest, Slice, and Enjoy
When your Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna emerges from the oven, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes cutting easier (and prettier). Gather everyone around, because the aromas are irresistible!
How to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna
Garnishes
Give your finished lasagna a fresh lift by scattering chopped parsley, fresh thyme, or green onions over the top. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper right before serving adds a final flavor pop and makes your Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna look even more festive.
Side Dishes
Because the lasagna is already hearty, keep sides simple. A crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts balance out the rich flavors. If you love gravy, serve some extra warm on the side for drizzling!
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by cutting the lasagna into neat squares and serving on platters, or use a spatula to scoop generous, rustic servings. For a more elegant touch, bake individual servings in ramekins or mini cocottes for personalized Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna portions—especially fun for a Friendsgiving brunch or potluck!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna keeps like a dream! Cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld, making every bite even better the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole pan tightly in plastic and foil. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge, or bake straight from frozen at a slightly lower temperature, covered, until heated through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil for 20-30 minutes. Individual slices zap up well in the microwave, just cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist and heat in 1-minute bursts until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I use different meats in my Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna?
Absolutely! While turkey is classic, ham or even leftover roast chicken work perfectly. You could even layer in both for a super deluxe version—it’s all about using what you love.
What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
If you’re out of cranberry sauce, try a little dollop of apricot or raspberry preserves for that sweet-tart element. Even a handful of dried cranberries scattered over the layers can add a welcome burst of flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna?
Definitely! Skip the turkey and double up on roasted veggies like squash, mushrooms, or sweet potatoes. Vegetarian stuffing and mushroom gravy will keep the spirit of the dish alive.
How far ahead can I assemble it?
You can assemble the lasagna one or even two days in advance. Just cover tightly and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake—so convenient for busy holiday weekends!
Can I add extra cheese?
Of course! Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna loves cheese—mix in mozzarella, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a little dollop of ricotta between the layers for extra creaminess if you’re feeling indulgent.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a post-holiday dish packed with both nostalgia and flavor, Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna is pure comfort and joy. Dig in with family or friends, share the laughter, and turn your leftovers into something you’ll crave all year long. Give this recipe a try—you’ll never look at Thanksgiving leftovers the same way again!
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Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Thanksgiving Leftover Lasagna recipe is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the holiday season in a new and delicious way. Layers of turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and creamy mashed potatoes are stacked between lasagna noodles and cheese, creating a comforting and hearty meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Turkey Layer:
- 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
- 1 cup gravy
Stuffing Layer:
- 2 cups leftover stuffing
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Mashed Potato Layer:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Cranberry Sauce Layer:
- 1 cup leftover cranberry sauce
Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Lasagna Noodles:
- 1 package of lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the layers: In separate bowls, mix the shredded turkey with gravy, stuffing with chicken broth, mashed potatoes with sour cream, and cranberry sauce.
- Assemble the lasagna: Start by layering lasagna noodles on the bottom of the dish. Then add the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and cheeses. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy the delicious flavors of Thanksgiving in every bite!
Notes
- This recipe is customizable, so feel free to add any other Thanksgiving leftovers you have on hand.
- For a crispy top, broil the lasagna for a few minutes at the end of baking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
