Turkey and Herb Dumpling Bake
A comforting casserole of tender turkey and vegetables in a rich, herby gravy, topped with soft, pillowy dumplings that bake to perfection.
- Prep35 min
- Cook30 min
- Total1h
- DifficultyMedium
- Servings8
This dish is the ultimate comfort food: a hearty filling of turkey and vegetables in a savory gravy, crowned with light, fluffy dumplings. It's easy to put together, and you can even prep some parts ahead of time.
If you roasted a large turkey for a holiday and have leftovers, this is a fantastic way to use them. The dumplings soak up the flavorful sauce as they bake, creating a cozy, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Servings
For the dumplings
For the filling
Converted amounts are rounded.
Method
- To make the dumplings: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in the herbs (if using). Cover the bowl and refrigerate while you prepare the filling.
- To make the filling: In a 3-quart saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
- Gradually add the stock (or stock/gravy mixture), about 1/2 cup at a time, whisking well after each addition to avoid lumps. Once all the liquid is in, season with thyme, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, then stir in the diced turkey and frozen vegetables.
- Return the filling to a gentle simmer. Transfer the hot filling to a 4-quart baking dish with a lid. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- To assemble: In a small bowl, whisk the buttermilk and egg together. Pour this mixture all at once into the dry dumpling mixture.
- Stir with a spoon just until the batter is evenly moistened; do not overmix.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the hot filling, leaving space between them (they will expand during baking). You can make them large or small; about 8 to 10 dumplings is a good amount. Cover the dish with its lid and bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes, until the dumplings are puffed and cooked through.
💡 Tips
- To make ahead: prepare the filling and the dry dumpling mix separately, then assemble and bake when ready.
- If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with 3/4 cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes.
- For a richer flavor, use leftover turkey gravy in place of part of the stock.
Inspired by a recipe from King Arthur Baking