Transform your holiday or weeknight leftovers into a spectacular dish with this incredibly easy and delicious leftover turkey tortellini casserole. This recipe is specifically designed to utilize cooked turkey or chicken, marrying it with tender cheese tortellini, sweet peas, and a rich, creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a guaranteed family favorite that turns simple ingredients into a comforting, satisfying, and remarkably quick meal.

At Add Salt & Serve, we’re big proponents of “planned leftovers” – intentionally cooking extra so you can whip up exciting new meals later in the week. This turkey tortellini casserole is a prime example of how easy and rewarding that can be. Forget boring re-heated turkey; this dish elevates it into a cheesy, pasta-filled delight that everyone will ask for again. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly binds all the ingredients, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and comfort.

Whether you’re looking for a clever way to use up post-holiday turkey or simply need a quick, hearty dinner solution using leftover rotisserie chicken, this casserole fits the bill. It’s designed for convenience without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying on the table fast. The preparation is straightforward, and the baking time is minimal, allowing you more time to enjoy with your loved ones.

The beauty of this cheesy tortellini casserole lies in its simplicity and adaptability. With just a few staple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels special and indulgent. The combination of savory turkey, tender tortellini, and a luxurious cheese sauce creates a symphony of textures and tastes that will make this recipe a regular in your meal rotation. Get ready to turn ordinary leftovers into an extraordinary dinner!

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Essential Ingredients for Your Leftover Turkey Tortellini Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful casserole. Most of these items are likely already in your pantry or freezer, making this a budget-friendly option. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some helpful tips:

• 10 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup: This provides the creamy base and a foundational savory flavor. Using it undiluted is key for a rich sauce.
• 2 cups frozen peas (or peas and carrots): Adds a touch of sweetness, color, and vegetable goodness. Frozen vegetables are convenient and always ready to go.
• 2 cups cooked turkey or chicken: The star of your leftovers! Shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces works best for even distribution in the casserole.
• 4 cups cheese tortellini: The pasta component, bringing a delightful texture and extra cheesy flavor. Fresh or frozen tortellini will both work beautifully.
• 1-½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for the mix): Melts into the sauce, contributing a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping): Creates that irresistible golden-brown, bubbly crust on top of the casserole.
• Up to 1 cup milk: Used to achieve the desired creamy consistency for your sauce. Start with less and add gradually.

These quantities are designed for a generous family meal. Remember to check the full recipe card below for exact measurements and any additional notes.

Crafting Your Leftover Turkey Tortellini Casserole: Step-by-Step

Making this creamy, cheesy turkey tortellini casserole is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps to bring a comforting and flavorful meal to your table:

Step 1: Cook the Tortellini to Perfection

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add your cheese tortellini and cook according to the package directions. It’s crucial to cook the tortellini until it’s al dente – tender yet still firm to the bite. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta in your casserole. While the tortellini cooks, you can move on to preparing the other components, saving valuable time.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Casserole Base

While your tortellini is bubbling away, take a large casserole dish (preferably a 5-quart dish to ensure ample space for mixing) and combine the condensed cream of chicken soup (undiluted for maximum creaminess), one and a half cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, your chopped leftover turkey or chicken, and the frozen peas. Mix these ingredients thoroughly until everything is well combined and the soup begins to coat the other components. This forms the rich, flavorful base of your casserole.

Step 3: Combine and Adjust Consistency

Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Once the tortellini is cooked and drained, add it directly to the casserole dish with your creamy turkey and pea mixture. Gently mix all the ingredients together until the tortellini is evenly coated in the sauce. This gentle approach prevents the tortellini from breaking apart. Now is also the time to adjust the consistency: add milk a little at a time, stirring after each addition, until the sauce reaches your desired creaminess. You might not need the full cup, or you might need a bit more, depending on how thick you prefer your casserole.

Step 4: The Cheesy Topping

Once your casserole mixture is perfectly blended and has the right consistency, it’s time for the final touch. Evenly sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the entire surface of the casserole. This layer of cheese will melt and become beautifully golden and bubbly as it bakes, adding another layer of flavor and an irresistible texture to your dish. Ensure the cheese covers the top for an even bake.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Carefully place your casserole dish into the preheated oven. Bake at 350ºF (175ºC) for approximately 25 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated through, the sauce is bubbly around the edges, and the cheese on top has melted into a golden, irresistible crust. The aroma filling your kitchen will be a clear sign that dinner is almost ready! Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to set slightly.

Why This Turkey Tortellini Casserole is a Weeknight Lifesaver

This casserole isn’t just a recipe; it’s a solution for busy households. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your meal planning:

• Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of cheesy tortellini, savory turkey, and a creamy sauce creates a dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for any season.
• Effortless Leftover Transformation: Say goodbye to monotonous leftovers! This recipe breathes new life into cooked turkey or chicken, making it feel like a brand new, exciting meal. It’s a fantastic way to prevent food waste and save money.
• Quick and Easy Preparation: With minimal prep work and a short baking time, you can have a homemade, hearty dinner on the table in under an hour. It’s ideal for those evenings when time is of the essence but you still crave a satisfying meal.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The mild flavors and comforting textures are universally loved by both kids and adults. It’s an excellent way to get everyone to eat their protein and vegetables without complaint.
• Versatile and Customizable: As you’ll see in the sections below, this casserole is a fantastic canvas for various substitutions and additions, allowing you to tailor it to your family’s tastes and what you have on hand.
• One-Dish Wonder: Everything bakes together in a single dish, which means less cleanup for you – a true blessing on a busy night!

Pro Tips for the Best Leftover Turkey Tortellini Casserole

To ensure your turkey tortellini casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Since the tortellini will continue to cook slightly in the oven, aim for al dente during the boiling stage. This will prevent it from becoming mushy in the finished casserole.
• Shred Your Cheese Fresh: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, shredding your own from a block often results in a creamier melt and better flavor, as it lacks anti-caking agents found in packaged varieties.
• Chop Turkey Evenly: Ensure your cooked turkey or chicken is cut into roughly bite-sized pieces for even distribution and easier eating.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before baking, taste your sauce mixture and adjust salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed. Condensed soups often contain a fair amount of sodium, so add salt cautiously.
• For a Crispier Top: If you love a really crispy cheese topping, you can briefly place the casserole under the broiler for 1-2 minutes at the very end of baking. Watch it carefully to prevent burning!
• Vary Your Vegetables: While peas are classic, feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like diced carrots, corn, or even finely chopped spinach for extra nutrients.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the sauce thicken slightly and prevents it from being too runny when you serve it.

Smart Substitutions for Your Casserole

This leftover turkey tortellini casserole is wonderfully versatile. Don’t be afraid to experiment with these simple substitutions to tailor it to your pantry or dietary needs:

• Homemade Sauce: If you prefer to avoid condensed cream soup, you can easily make a homemade béchamel-style sauce. A simple white sauce made with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings can replace the cream of chicken soup, offering a fresher flavor profile. For a specific recipe, you might find a great cream soup substitute recipe here.
• Chicken: Already have cooked chicken on hand? It’s a perfect one-to-one substitute for the turkey. Leftover roasted chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even poached chicken breasts work beautifully in this recipe. The flavor profile remains equally delicious.
• Vegetarian Option: Easily adapt this casserole for a meat-free meal. Simply omit the turkey. To make up for the bulk and add more flavor, increase the amount of frozen vegetables. I often use a mix of peas and carrots, or a Normandy-style blend of frozen vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, green beans). For the soup base, swap the cream of chicken for a vegetarian-friendly cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup. Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra depth.
• Different Cheeses: While sharp cheddar offers a classic taste, try other shredded cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for a slightly different flavor.

Exciting Variations to Explore

Beyond substitutions, you can get creative with flavor profiles to give your turkey tortellini casserole a whole new twist:

• Tex-Mex Style: Infuse some Southwestern flair by adding a can of drained diced tomatoes and green chilies to the mixture. Incorporate a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin for extra spice. For a fun topping, sprinkle with crushed tortilla chips or crispy jalapeños before baking, and serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• Italian Style: Give your casserole an Italian makeover. Add a can of drained fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky, rich flavor, and incorporate a tablespoon of Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, and thyme). You could also mix in some finely minced garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Top with grated Parmesan cheese along with the cheddar for a truly Italian finish, and serve with a side of warm garlic bread.
• Mushroom and Spinach: For an earthy and nutritious twist, sauté some fresh mushrooms and wilt a handful of fresh spinach, then stir them into the casserole mixture before baking. This adds great texture and flavor, especially if you opt for the vegetarian version.
• Buffalo Style: For those who love a bit of heat, toss the cooked turkey or chicken with a few tablespoons of buffalo sauce before adding it to the casserole. You can even mix in a small amount of blue cheese crumbles for an authentic buffalo flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This turkey tortellini casserole is excellent for meal prep and makes delicious leftovers. Proper storage is key to enjoying it safely and maximizing its freshness:

Store any leftover casserole covered tightly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure it cools down completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in individual freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. When freezing, label with the date to keep track of freshness.

To reheat, you have a couple of options:

• Microwave: For individual portions, cover loosely and microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This usually takes 2-4 minutes depending on your microwave and portion size.
• Oven: For larger amounts or if reheating from frozen, transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish, add a splash of milk or broth to keep it moist, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. If frozen, this could take 45-60 minutes; if refrigerated, 20-30 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes if you want the cheese topping to crisp up again.

Always ensure the casserole is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Perfect Serving Suggestions

While this cheesy turkey tortellini casserole is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce, warm garlic bread or soft dinner rolls are always a welcome addition.
• Steamed Vegetables: For an extra boost of greens, serve alongside some simply steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• Crusty French Bread: A rustic loaf of crusty bread adds a touch of elegance and is fantastic for dipping.

Leftover Turkey Tortellini Casserole

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Conclusion: Your New Favorite Way to Enjoy Leftovers

This cheesy leftover turkey tortellini casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients and smart planning can lead to incredibly satisfying and delicious meals. It transforms what could be mundane leftovers into a comforting, hearty, and family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week.

From its quick preparation to its delightful blend of flavors and textures, every aspect of this casserole is designed for ease and enjoyment. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or venture into one of our suggested variations, you’re sure to create a dish that gathers everyone around the table with smiles. So, the next time you have leftover turkey or chicken, remember this recipe and turn your culinary odds and ends into a cherished meal. Happy cooking!