This Turkey Cranberry Spinach Casserole is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings together sweet, savory, and tangy notes in every bite. Juicy turkey, earthy spinach, and tart cranberries meld beautifully under a creamy, golden topping, creating a comforting yet elegant meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
The rich, velvety texture of the casserole contrasts delightfully with the slight crunch of spinach and the pop of cranberries. Packed with 18g of protein and a burst of vitamins, it’s as nourishing as it is indulgent. Warm, satisfying, and effortlessly balanced, this dish is a celebration of cozy flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What You’ll Need
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) chicken broth (low-sodium works too)
- 3 Tablespoons butter (unsalted preferred)
- 3 cups stuffing mix (use your favorite brand or homemade)
- 3 cups cooked and cubed (or shredded) turkey (leftover turkey is perfect!)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped (substitute with kale if desired)
- ½ cup dried cranberries (or substitute with raisins for a different twist)
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese (try sharp cheddar for extra flavor)
How to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray an 11×7-inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large saucepan, combine the chicken broth and butter. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then remove from heat.
- Add the stuffing mix to the saucepan and stir until all the stuffing is moistened.
- Mix in the cooked turkey, chopped spinach, and dried cranberries until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This Turkey Cranberry Spinach Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with a light, fresh side. Try serving it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. For a cozy meal, add a warm slice of garlic bread or a bowl of butternut squash soup on the side.
Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste! Swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile. If you’re not a fan of cranberries, try dried cherries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness. For a vegetarian twist, replace the turkey with roasted chickpeas or quinoa.
Quick Tips for Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. For best results, sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before reheating to keep it moist and flavorful.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
To save time, use pre-cooked turkey from the deli or leftover holiday turkey. You can also prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before assembling the casserole. If you’re in a rush, skip chopping the spinach and use frozen spinach (thawed and drained) instead.
Essential Equipment for Easy Prep
You’ll need a large saucepan for the stuffing mixture and an 11×7-inch baking dish for the casserole. A sharp chef’s knife and cutting board will make chopping the spinach and turkey a breeze. Don’t forget a wooden spoon for stirring and a measuring cup for precise ingredient portions!
Turkey Cranberry Spinach Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 can chicken broth, 14.5 ounces
- 3 Tablespoons butter
- 3 cups stuffing mix
- 3 cups cooked and cubed (or shredded) turkey
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Spray an 11×7″ baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large saucepan, bring broth and butter to a boil. Remove from heat.
- Add in stuffing mix and stir together until all stuffing is moist.
- Add in cooked turkey, chopped spinach, and cranberries.
- Dump turkey and stuffing mixture into prepared pan. Sprinkle cheese on top.
- Bake (uncovered) for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted.