Make-Ahead Turkey Manicotti

Now here's a new leftover turkey recipe: Make-Ahead Turkey Manicotti! This turkey casserole recipe can be chilled up to 24 hours before baking for a low-fuss weeknight dinner.

  • Cook manicotti according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Meanwhile, for sauce, in a medium saucepan heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in tomatoes, wine, and tomato paste. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.

Cook manicotti according to package directions; drain. Rinse with cold water; drain again. Meanwhile, for sauce, in a medium saucepan heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is tender, stirring occasionally. Stir in tomatoes, wine, and tomato paste. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.

  • Meanwhile, for filling, in a large bowl combine turkey, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, the ricotta cheese, cream cheese spread, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

Meanwhile, for filling, in a large bowl combine turkey, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella cheese, the ricotta cheese, cream cheese spread, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  • Using a small spoon, carefully fill each manicotti shell with about 1/4 cup of the filling. Arrange filled shells in an ungreased 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Pour sauce over shells. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil. (To serve today, omit Step 4. Continue as directed in Step 5, except bake for 30 to 35 minutes.)

Using a small spoon, carefully fill each manicotti shell with about 1/4 cup of the filling. Arrange filled shells in an ungreased 3-quart rectangular baking dish. Pour sauce over shells. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Cover with foil. (To serve today, omit Step 4. Continue as directed in Step 5, except bake for 30 to 35 minutes.)

  • Chill for 2 to 24 hours.

Chill for 2 to 24 hours.

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake, covered, about 45 minutes or until heated through. Let stand, covered, for 10 minutes before serving.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake, covered, about 45 minutes or until heated through. Let stand, covered, for 10 minutes before serving.