When the weather turns cool and you’re craving a cozy, heartwarming meal that feels like a hug in a bowl, these Turkey & Gravy Mashed Potato Bowls are just the thing. Inspired by the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving dinner, this recipe takes those beloved holiday leftovers and turns them into a hearty, satisfying meal you can enjoy any time of the year. Imagine creamy mashed potatoes layered with tender turkey, smothered in rich, savory gravy, and topped with golden corn and melted cheese—it’s a simple yet indulgent dish that celebrates comfort food at its best. Whether you’re using up leftover turkey from a big family gathering or cooking a fresh batch just for this bowl, it’s a meal that brings warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you adore comfort food that’s easy to make yet packed with flavor, this dish is about to become one of your favorites. Turkey & Gravy Mashed Potato Bowls combine everything you love about a hearty dinner into one simple, satisfying meal. You’ll appreciate:
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Simplicity: It’s quick to make with minimal ingredients, perfect for busy nights or when you need to use up leftovers.
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Comforting Flavors: Creamy mashed potatoes, juicy turkey, and savory gravy come together in the most irresistible way.
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Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist this wholesome, homemade comfort food.
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Customizable Options: You can swap in your favorite vegetables, use different cheese types, or add extra gravy for even more richness.
This recipe is all about taking everyday ingredients and transforming them into something that feels special and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
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3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
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4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
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2 cups turkey gravy (homemade or canned)
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1 ½ cups frozen corn (or leftover corn)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, if preferred)
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2 tablespoons butter
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Directions
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Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
If you’re using fresh mashed potatoes, start by boiling peeled potatoes until tender. Drain, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. If you’re using leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore their creamy texture. -
Warm the Turkey and Gravy:
In a large skillet, combine the shredded turkey and gravy. Heat over medium-low until the turkey is warmed through and the gravy is hot and smooth. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to loosen it up. -
Cook the Corn:
In a small saucepan or in the microwave, heat the corn until tender. Drain any excess liquid and season lightly with salt and pepper. -
Assemble the Bowls:
Start with a generous layer of mashed potatoes at the bottom of each serving bowl. Top with a spoonful of corn, then ladle the warm turkey and gravy mixture over the top. -
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each bowl while the contents are still hot, allowing it to melt beautifully over the turkey and gravy. -
Garnish and Serve:
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 20 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
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Yield: 4 servings
Tips for the Best Turkey & Gravy Mashed Potato Bowls
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Use Real Butter for the Mashed Potatoes: It adds richness and enhances the flavor.
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Don’t Skimp on Gravy: The gravy ties everything together—use plenty to keep the dish moist and flavorful.
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Season Thoughtfully: Taste as you go, especially if you’re using leftovers, since the turkey and gravy may already be seasoned.
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Try Different Vegetables: Peas, green beans, or carrots can be delicious substitutes or additions to corn.
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Add a Crunchy Topping: For a fun twist, sprinkle crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs over the top before serving.
Variations to Try
1. Turkey & Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls:
Add roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes for a deeper, richer flavor that complements the gravy perfectly.
2. Turkey & Vegetable Mash-Up Bowls:
Mix in sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
3. Cheesy Loaded Turkey Bowls:
Add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle some crumbled cooked chicken sausage or turkey bacon bits (no pork) for a loaded-bowl experience.
4. Creamy Turkey & Sweet Corn Bowls:
Swap out regular corn for sweet cream-style corn to give your bowl a creamier, sweeter contrast to the savory gravy.
5. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie Style Bowl:
Layer everything in a casserole dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly for a classic baked version.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish doesn’t need much else to shine, but if you’d like to round out your meal, consider pairing it with:
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A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
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Steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and added freshness.
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A side of cranberry sauce for a touch of tartness that complements the gravy.
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Warm dinner rolls or biscuits to soak up every last drop of gravy.
If you’re serving this dish after the holidays, it’s also a great way to repurpose leftovers creatively. Guests will never guess it’s made from the remnants of yesterday’s feast.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a little gravy or a splash of milk to keep the mashed potatoes creamy.
Freezer: You can also freeze the turkey and gravy mixture (without the mashed potatoes) for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating:
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Microwave: Heat individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
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Stovetop: Warm the turkey and gravy mixture in a skillet over low heat, stirring until heated through. Serve over freshly made or reheated mashed potatoes.
The Perfect Comfort Meal for Any Occasion
While this dish is inspired by Thanksgiving, its appeal goes far beyond the holidays. It’s perfect for weeknights when you need something warm and filling, or weekends when you want to treat yourself to a homemade meal that’s both easy and nostalgic. There’s something special about the combination of creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy—it instantly transports you back to cozy family dinners and comforting traditions.
And the best part? You don’t need to wait for a holiday to enjoy it. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate the essence of a classic turkey dinner any day of the week.
How to Make It Even More Special
If you want to elevate your Turkey & Gravy Mashed Potato Bowls, here are a few ideas:
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Add roasted garlic or herbs like thyme or rosemary to your mashed potatoes for a flavor boost.
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Mix in a layer of stuffing or dressing for an extra comforting texture.
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Use homemade turkey gravy for the richest flavor possible—it’s worth the extra few minutes if you have turkey drippings.
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Top with crispy onions or crushed crackers for a delicious crunch.
Each small tweak adds a unique touch that makes the dish your own while keeping the classic flavors intact.
Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite
This recipe has everything people love about homemade comfort food—creamy, savory, satisfying, and easy to customize. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds. Parents love it because it’s easy to throw together with leftovers, and kids love it because it’s simple, cheesy, and delicious.
It’s also perfect for batch cooking. You can prepare several portions at once, store them, and have comforting meals ready to go all week long. Whether you serve it in individual bowls or as a family-style casserole, it’s a recipe that never fails to bring smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bowls ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Turkey & Gravy Mashed Potato Bowls are an ideal make-ahead meal, especially if you love prepping your dinners in advance. You can prepare the mashed potatoes, turkey, and gravy separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat each component until hot and assemble the bowls. For the best results, reheat the mashed potatoes with a small splash of milk or cream to bring back their smooth, creamy texture. The turkey and gravy can be warmed together on the stovetop or in the microwave until everything is piping hot. This approach makes weeknight dinners incredibly easy—especially after a long day when you don’t want to cook from scratch. You can even portion out individual servings in containers, making them perfect for grab-and-go lunches or quick reheats throughout the week. If you like freezer meals, you can freeze the turkey and gravy mixture for up to two months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving over fresh mashed potatoes.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes! Instant mashed potatoes are a fantastic time-saver, especially if you’re short on time or energy but still want a comforting homemade meal. Many people are surprised at how close instant mashed potatoes can come to the real thing when you give them a little extra care. Try using warm milk instead of water and whisking in a generous pat of butter or even a spoonful of sour cream for added richness. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can also elevate the flavor and make them taste freshly made. While homemade mashed potatoes are always delicious, instant versions are great for busy weeknights, quick lunches, or when you’re making multiple components at once. The creamy base they create still pairs beautifully with the savory turkey and gravy, delivering the same satisfying comfort food experience with less effort.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is the traditional favorite for these bowls because of its sharp, rich flavor and beautiful melting quality. However, you have plenty of room to customize based on your taste preferences. For a milder, creamier flavor, Monterey Jack or mozzarella are excellent options that melt into smooth, gooey perfection. If you enjoy a bit of spice, pepper jack adds a subtle heat that complements the savory gravy beautifully. For a richer, more indulgent flavor, try using a blend of cheeses—half cheddar for sharpness and half mozzarella for creaminess. Whichever you choose, sprinkle the cheese on top while the turkey and potatoes are still warm so it melts into that irresistible, stretchy layer of comfort.
Can I use chicken instead of turkey?
Definitely! This recipe is incredibly flexible, and cooked chicken works just as well as turkey. Whether you have leftover roasted chicken, grilled breasts, or even store-bought rotisserie chicken, it blends perfectly with the creamy mashed potatoes and savory gravy. The gravy ties all the components together, giving you the same rich and comforting flavor profile you’d expect from turkey. It’s also a great way to enjoy this dish year-round, even when you don’t have leftover holiday turkey on hand. Using chicken makes this meal more accessible and budget-friendly while keeping it just as delicious and satisfying. If you’d like, you can even use shredded chicken mixed with a bit of poultry seasoning or herbs like thyme and parsley to deepen the flavor. No matter which protein you choose, you’ll end up with a hearty, comforting bowl that delivers all the cozy satisfaction of a classic homemade dinner.
Turkey & Gravy Mashed Potato Bowls Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
When you need a cozy, comforting meal that feels like Thanksgiving in a bowl, these Turkey & Gravy Mashed Potato Bowls hit the spot. Tender turkey, creamy mashed potatoes, savory gravy, and sweet corn come together to create the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for using up leftover turkey or making from scratch when you crave something warm and homey.
Ingredients
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3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
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4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
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2 cups turkey gravy (homemade or canned)
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1 ½ cups frozen corn (or leftover cooked corn)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, if preferred)
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2 tablespoons butter
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
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Prepare the mashed potatoes. If making from scratch, boil peeled potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, salt, and pepper until creamy. If using leftovers, reheat them with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
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Warm the turkey and gravy together in a skillet over medium-low heat until heated through. If the gravy is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of water or broth to thin it slightly.
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Cook the corn in the microwave or on the stovetop until tender. Drain excess liquid and season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Assemble the bowls by layering mashed potatoes on the bottom, followed by corn, and then spooning the warm turkey and gravy mixture over the top.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each bowl while hot so it melts beautifully.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
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You can prepare the turkey, mashed potatoes, and gravy ahead of time and store them separately for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
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For a twist, try adding other vegetables like peas, green beans, or sautéed mushrooms.
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Instant mashed potatoes work well if you’re short on time—enhance them with butter or sour cream for a homemade flavor.
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For extra indulgence, mix in roasted garlic or a bit of cream cheese into the mashed potatoes.
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To make this dish gluten-free, use a gravy thickened with cornstarch instead of flour.
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Leftovers reheat beautifully; just add a splash of gravy or milk to keep everything moist and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
