Slow Cooker Turkey Casserole: Easiest Comfort Food Recipe

January 2, 2026

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Slow cooker turkey casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe transforms leftover turkey into a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal with minimal effort. It’s the perfect answer to “what to do with that Thanksgiving turkey” without resorting to yet another sandwich. This easy slow cooker turkey casserole will become a family favorite, and it’s all thanks to a little inspiration from my Grandma Rose and a lot of experimentation in my own kitchen!

My grandmother, Rose, was the queen of making something out of nothing. She could stretch a single chicken into three meals, and her casseroles were legendary. This slow cooker turkey casserole is an homage to her resourceful cooking and her ability to create delicious family meals. I’ve adapted her time intensive recipe, using my slow cooker to minimize active cooking time while maximizing flavor. This recipe uses up leftover turkey in a creamy sauce, but it also brings to mind my Slow Cooker Turkey Pasta recipe, which is what inspired me to create it in the first place!

Why You Will Love This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

This slow cooker turkey casserole is pure comfort food at its finest. It’s incredibly easy to throw together, especially when you’re already dealing with Thanksgiving leftovers.

The best part? The slow cooker does all the work! Just layer the ingredients, set it, and forget it. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is flavorful. We're talking a creamy sauce, savory turkey, and a satisfying topping. This slow cooker turkey casserole is super easy to make, even for beginner cooks. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it's a virtually foolproof recipe. Try these Slow Cooker Turkey Wraps if you're feeling creative and want similar flavors.

slow cooker turkey casserole process step

I remember one particularly hectic December when I made this slow cooker turkey casserole for a neighborhood potluck. Everyone raved about it, and I even had several people ask me for the recipe. It was so rewarding to share something that brought so much joy to others.

Ingredients Needed for This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (10 ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters

How to Make This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, frozen mixed vegetables, cheddar cheese, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  2. Stir in the cooked turkey. Make sure the turkey is well coated in the sauce.

  3. Pour the turkey mixture into a greased slow cooker.

  4. Arrange the biscuit dough pieces on top of the turkey mixture.

  5. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the biscuit dough is cooked through and the casserole is heated through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.

  6. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

How to Serve This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

Serve this slow cooker turkey casserole hot, straight from the slow cooker. It's a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans.

For a little extra flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or chives on top before serving. A dollop of cranberry sauce also adds a nice touch, especially if you're using leftover Thanksgiving turkey.

How to Store This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

  • Refrigeration: Store leftover slow cooker turkey casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the microwave or oven until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems dry.

Tips to Make This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

  • Ingredient Swaps: You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead of cream of mushroom. Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn. Diced ham or cooked chicken can be substituted for turkey.
  • Success Tips: Make sure the slow cooker is well greased to prevent sticking. Avoid over cooking the biscuit dough, as it will become tough.
  • Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don't add too much liquid to the sauce, as the casserole can become watery. Cut the biscuit dough into even pieces for even cooking. Try to spread the biscuits evenly across the top of the slow cooker.
  • Pro Tips for Best Results: For a golden brown topping, brush the biscuit dough with melted butter before cooking. If you want a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a minute or two after it's cooked, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.

Helpful Notes for This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

This slow cooker turkey casserole is a great way to use up leftover turkey, but you can also use pre cooked turkey from the deli. If you are short on time, use pre shredded cheddar cheese. If you don’t have mixed vegetables, you could use your favorite frozen vegetable blend. Be creative and customize the recipe to your liking!

Remember to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the biscuits to ensure they're fully cooked. If the toothpick comes out clean, then it's fully cooked

Also, make sure that the slow cooker lid is well fitted to help cook the biscuits well and make sure they rise properly.

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Variation of This slow cooker turkey casserole Recipe

  • Seasonal Twists: Add some cooked cranberries and a pinch of cinnamon for a festive holiday twist. Incorporate butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a fall inspired version.
  • Optional Versions: Top with crushed potato chips or French fried onions for a crunchy topping. Add a layer of stuffing under the turkey mixture for a heartier casserole.
  • Creative Modifications: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Tex Mex inspired slow cooker turkey casserole. Add a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of turkey in this casserole?

Yes, you can substitute cooked chicken for turkey in this slow cooker casserole. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious. Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the slow cooker.

How long can I keep slow cooker turkey casserole in the refrigerator?

You can store leftover slow cooker turkey casserole in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent bacterial growth.

What are some variations I can make to this slow cooker turkey casserole?

You can add different vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans to customize your casserole. Experiment with different cheeses or add a topping of breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for added texture.

Can I freeze slow cooker turkey casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What is the best way to reheat slow cooker turkey casserole?

You can reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it seems dry.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy this easy and delicious slow cooker turkey casserole as much as my family does! It's a perfect way to transform leftover turkey into a comforting and satisfying meal. Give it a try and let me know what you think. And while you're at it, check out my article about Slow Cooker Turkey Casserole for another inspiring recipe!

Slow Cooker Turkey Casserole: Easiest Comfort Food Recipe

Slow Cooker Turkey Casserole: Easiest Comfort Food Recipe

This Slow Cooker Turkey Casserole uses leftover turkey and transforms it into a cheesy, comforting meal. Perfect for using up Thanksgiving leftovers!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition:

Calories: 350
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 25g
Fat: 20g

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
  • 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (10 ounce) can refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into quarters

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, frozen mixed vegetables, cheddar cheese, onion, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir in the cooked turkey.
  3. Pour the turkey mixture into a greased slow cooker.
  4. Arrange the biscuit dough pieces on top of the turkey mixture.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, or until the biscuit dough is cooked through and the casserole is heated through.
  6. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a golden brown topping, brush the biscuit dough with melted butter before cooking.
  • For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a minute or two after it’s cooked, but watch it carefully to prevent burning.
  • Use any type of vegetables that you like that work well roasted, such as onion or potatoes.

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