The abundance of leftover turkey after a holiday feast can be both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, you get to enjoy delicious meals for a few days, but on the other hand, you’re left wondering what to do with all that extra meat. The good news is that there are countless ways to reinvent leftover turkey into creative and mouthwatering meals.
Rather than throwing away perfectly good food, why not get creative in the kitchen? With a little bit of imagination and some inspiration from various cuisines, you can transform leftover turkey into a multitude of dishes. From hearty soups and stews to savory casseroles and wraps, the possibilities are truly endless.
Leftover Turkey Salad
A sandwich made with chicken salad is always a winner, but its turkey-based counterpart is a close second. The unique twist in this recipe lies not only in the leftover turkey, but also in the incorporation of Dijon mustard and a touch of sweetness. To elevate the dish further, we recommend adding some dried cranberries and walnuts, which give it a delightful fall flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
Turkey and Dumplings
When it comes to utilizing leftover poultry, whether it’s turkey or chicken, our go-to solution is whipping up a hearty pot of dumplings. The versatility of cooked poultry allows for endless possibilities, and turkey and dumplings happens to be one of our favorite leftover recipes. This dish features luscious buttermilk dumplings that effortlessly rise to the surface, boasting an airy texture that’s simply divine. What sets this recipe apart is its secret ingredient: apple cider. The subtle sweetness and depth of flavor it adds are nothing short of remarkable. While canned biscuits can be a convenient alternative, we highly recommend taking the time to craft these homemade dumplings for a truly satisfying experience.
Turkey Pot Pie Soup
To create this scrumptious turkey pot pie soup, you’ll need to start with your own homemade turkey stock, if possible. However, if you’re missing some essential ingredients, canned chicken broth can be a suitable substitute, still yielding a delectable outcome. This hearty soup cleverly combines all the signature flavors and textures of a traditional turkey pot pie, but instead of baking it in a casserole, you’ll simmer its components together on your stovetop. For added depth and a hint of autumnal flair, we suggest using Yukon Gold potatoes and incorporating fresh sage into the recipe.
Thanksgiving Egg Rolls
In our quest to exhaustively cover leftover turkey recipes, we’re now venturing into the realm of Asian-inspired delights. Enter these delectable turkey eggrolls, bursting with savory goodness and served alongside a rich cranberry dipping sauce that’s equal parts indulgent and tangy. What’s more, this recipe cleverly incorporates leftover mashed potatoes and dressing, effectively condensing the essence of Thanksgiving dinner within each crispy, golden-brown egg roll wrapper.
Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
While traditional shepherd’s pies often feature lamb, the United States has developed its own twist by substituting ground beef. The distinction between a shepherd’s pie and a cottage pie becomes blurred, but the end result remains a delectable casserole regardless of the protein choice. A creative alternative is to utilize leftover turkey, transforming the dish into an innovative and satisfyingly cheesy creation. When it comes to preparing the mashed potatoes, cooks have the flexibility to opt for homemade or instant varieties, both of which yield an exceptional final product.
Leftover Turkey Stroganoff
Stroganoff, a beloved Russian recipe, gained immense popularity in the United States following World War II. The classic dish typically consists of tender beef and earthy mushrooms bathed in a rich and creamy sour cream sauce. In this adaptation, we’ll substitute turkey for the beef, leveraging its milder flavor to create a harmonious balance with savory gravy and fresh thyme. For added depth, choose cremini or button mushrooms as they complement the turkey nicely. Serve this delectable dish over egg noodles or enjoy it with a side of rice.
Leftover Turkey Tortilla Soup
Indulge in a flavorful Mexican fiesta with a steaming bowl of turkey tortilla soup, packed with an array of delicious vegetables such as corn, tomatoes, chiles, and beans. This traditional Mexican soup is a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of authentic Mexican cuisine. To elevate the dish, serve it with crumbled tortilla chips on top, adding a satisfying crunch to each spoonful. For added richness, sprinkle shredded cheese like Jack or cheddar over the soup, allowing the creamy flavor to meld with the broth. Complete the experience by serving the soup with diced avocado and a dollop of sour cream, inviting your guests to customize their bowl with their preferred toppings.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Quesadilla
Tex-Mex cuisine has a special place in many hearts, particularly when it comes to its signature blend of cheesiness and spice. But what if we told you that this beloved style of cooking can also be used to create a unique and delectable twist on the traditional Thanksgiving feast? Enter: leftover turkey quesadillas, a ridiculously easy recipe that’s sure to become a new holiday favorite. And the best part? It’s a brilliant way to repurpose those tasty turkey leftovers from your big feast. Just imagine it: two crispy tortillas filled with savory shredded turkey, stuffing, and melted cheddar cheese – the ultimate comfort food mashup. To take it to the next level, serve these quesadillas alongside a tangy cranberry sauce and a drizzle of leftover gravy. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you.
Leftover Turkey Casserole
The humble leftover turkey casserole has a timeless quality to it, reminiscent of the warmth and comfort of Thanksgiving dinner itself. As this casserole emerges from the oven, it’s a masterclass in comforting goodness. The turkey is carefully diced and mixed with a medley of ingredients, including frozen peas, rotini pasta, cream of chicken soup, and cream of mushroom soup. One of its greatest appeals is that the rotini cooks along with everything else, eliminating the need for pre-cooking. But what truly sets this casserole apart is its customizability – you can swap out the creamed soups to suit your taste, with cream of celery soup being a particularly delightful variation. Additionally, you’re encouraged to get creative and add whatever vegetables you have on hand, making this dish a true reflection of your personal touch.
Leftover Turkey Crepes
When it comes to cooking a large holiday meal, one of the most pressing concerns is what to do with the abundance of leftovers that follow. One creative solution is to repurpose these excess ingredients into a new and innovative dish. For instance, these crepes make clever use of leftover turkey, stuffing or dressing, and even mashed potatoes. The latter becomes an integral component in the batter itself. Meanwhile, the filling is comprised of a medley of leftovers, including turkey meat, stuffing, and that ubiquitous cranberry sauce. To add an extra layer of flavor, drizzle some turkey gravy and additional cranberry sauce on top. This clever combination yields a meal fit for royalty.
Leftover Turkey Enchiladas
What makes this turkey enchilada recipe so special is its versatility – you can use leftover turkey to make it, or opt for ground turkey instead. And once you’ve tried these flavorful wraps, you’ll be hooked on making them again and again.
The real showstopper here is the combination of creamy sauce and melted cheese atop a bed of tender enchiladas. To give your dish an extra boost, I’ve added a blend of seasonings that includes ground cumin, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried oregano – it’s a flavor profile that will leave you wanting more.
When you’re ready to serve these mouthwatering enchiladas, be sure to top them off with some fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate treat.
Leftover Turkey Monte Cristo
With its classic combination of turkey, Swiss cheese, and white bread, this Monte Cristo sandwich has earned a reputation as a worthy rival to its ham-based counterpart. For those with dietary restrictions, don’t worry – gluten-free white bread is also an excellent choice. The crowning glory of this recipe, however, is the addition of sweet and tangy ginger-laced orange sauce, made with cranberries, which brings a delightful balance of flavors to the table.
Leftover Turkey in Gravy
When it comes to using leftover turkey, creating a mouthwatering turkey and gravy dish is a no-brainer. This recipe requires only two ingredients: your leftover turkey and a store-bought jar of turkey gravy. The result is a culinary masterpiece that will leave family members wondering how you managed to cook up such a treat in mere minutes. To elevate this dish, serve it alongside some steamed veggies, a crisp salad, or pair it with a comforting side like baked potato, mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice.
Turkey Over Biscuits
The classic comfort food combination of biscuits and gravy has a way of warming hearts and filling bellies. When paired with savory sausage, it’s a match made in heaven. But what if we told you there’s an even more scrumptious twist? Try substituting the sausage with turkey for a creamy gravy that’s perfect for any time of year, not just limited to Thanksgiving leftovers. The best part is it’s incredibly easy to make, and you can use homemade biscuits or opt for a convenient store-bought alternative. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this delightful combination is sure to hit the spot.
Leftover Turkey Tacos
Tacos – the ultimate culinary chameleons. Who can resist their allure? Not us, that’s for sure. With just a few humble ingredients, you can whip up a delicious turkey taco that will leave you wanting more. The magic lies in combining leftover shredded turkey with sautéed onion and jalapeño, a drizzle of cranberry sauce to create a sweet and tangy chutney, and a sprinkle of seasonings like chili powder, cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Don’t forget the essential taco toppings – diced onions, cilantro, avocado (or guacamole), sour cream, and a dash of fresh salsa for added zest.
Leftover Turkey Patties
Transforming leftover turkey into delectable turkey patties is an art form that requires minimal effort but maximum flavor. The combination of potatoes, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese creates a moist and creamy patty that’s perfect for repurposing Thanksgiving or Christmas leftovers. To elevate the dish further, add some savory depth with garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Serve these mouthwatering patties alongside a refreshing salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Turkey Orzo Soup
What makes a one-pot soup truly exceptional is its ability to satisfy our cravings while being incredibly convenient – after all, who doesn’t love a meal that can be ready in under an hour? This delectable turkey soup recipe checks both boxes and then some. The inclusion of orzo pasta adds a delightful texture to the hearty and savory broth, making it a true standout. With a medley of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion, this soup is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a great way to get your family’s daily dose of essential nutrients. But what really sets this recipe apart is its clever use of lemon juice to add a bright and unexpected flavor dimension. And let’s not forget the perfect accompaniment: a warm slice of fresh bread, which elevates the entire experience to new heights.
Turkey Tetrazzini
Turkey Tetrazzini, a classic after-Thanksgiving dish, is elevated by tender leftover turkey, rich mushroom sauce, and al dente pasta. The choice of pasta is flexible, but linguine remains the traditional go-to. To achieve a sumptuous creaminess, combine two cans of condensed cream of celery soup with sour cream. This refined take on Turkey Tetrazzini boasts a dual-cheese approach, incorporating both Parmesan and mozzarella for added depth. A crunchy bread crumb topping adds textural appeal, making this recipe a showstopper.
Turkey and Broccoli Quiche
Using leftover turkey, you can create a delicious crustless quiche that’s not only packed with protein but also lighter on calories and fat. This recipe boasts an impressive 20 grams of protein per slice, thanks to the combination of broccoli, seasoned turkey, and cheese. What’s more, you can customize it with your preferred ground turkey or leftover roasted turkey, making it a versatile option for brunch or breakfast. The subtle yet aromatic flavor profile is courtesy of Herbs de Provence, which adds a delightful depth to this quiche without overpowering the other ingredients.
Leftover Turkey Chili
The allure of leftover turkey chili is undeniable – it’s so good you might find yourself craving a turkey roast in February just to have an excuse to make this recipe. This wholesome dish is packed with nutritious ingredients like green bell pepper, canned crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and a generous four garlic cloves. The real magic happens when you combine these flavors with a blend of chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, and black pepper. To take it to the next level, serve your steaming bowls topped with shredded cheese, diced avocado, red onions, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Thanksgiving Turkey Leftover Pizza
Pizza is a culinary delight that transcends time and occasion. While it’s true that any day can be a great excuse for a pie, the combination of Thanksgiving leftovers in a pizza crust might just elevate your Turkey Day feast to new heights. Imagine the savory fusion of cooked turkey, fluffy stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes all nestled within a crispy, flavorful crust. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home with a few basic ingredients. To make this show-stopping pie, you’ll need a foundation of either thawed puff pastry or store-bought pizza dough. With these humble beginnings, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone in awe.
Leftover Turkey Burritos
This recipe for leftover turkey burritos is a clever way to repurpose the best parts of your Thanksgiving feast. The filling features tender roasted turkey meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and savory dressing. To create these satisfying wraps, simply place the mixture inside soft flour tortillas and bake until golden brown. When you remove them from the oven, serve the burritos hot on plates and drizzle with a rich gravy. If you’re feeling extra festive, consider topping them off with cranberry sauce or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.
Leftover Turkey Sandwich
When the holiday season wraps up, many people are left with an abundance of turkey leftovers, sparking creative ways to repurpose them into scrumptious sandwiches. The classic turkey sandwich is a staple of Thanksgiving gatherings, and for good reason – it’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. To take this humble hero to new heights, consider swapping out regular buns for soft, buttery brioche or thick-cut options that can hold up to the bounty of fillings. What sets this particular turkey sandwich apart is its innovative incorporation of Thanksgiving staples like rich gravy and tart cranberry sauce, both of which add a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. And then there’s the pièce de résistance: crispy fried eggs that bring an unexpected yet welcome layer of richness to the party.
Leftover Turkey Curry
Indulge in the rich flavors of this easy leftover chicken curry, a culinary delight that will transport your taste buds to paradise. By combining aromatic spices like garlic, ginger, turmeric, garam masala, and onion with the pungency of green pepper and red pepper, this recipe is a masterclass in balancing bold flavors. The addition of coconut milk lends a luxurious creaminess to each bite, making it a perfect accompaniment to fluffy wild rice.
Leftover Turkey Cobb Salad
Savory and seasonal, this turkey Cobb salad is a perfect meal solution for families seeking healthy options amidst their busy schedules. The combination of roasted turkey, dried cranberries, and caramelized butternut squash creates a truly autumnal delight. Feel free to customize the greens of your choice, but baby spinach provides an ideal base. A key component to this salad’s allure is the crispy bacon – don’t be shy in adding it! Additionally, hard-boiled eggs offer a satisfying textural contrast. For added richness, consider creamy goat cheese, crumbled blue cheese, or tangy feta as your dairy component.
Slow Cooker Turkey Chowder
While soups and stews are both warm and comforting, chowders are distinct in their heartiness – a characteristic that’s perfectly embodied by this scrumptious turkey and potato chowder. With its rich flavors and textures, it’s the perfect solution for a busy weeknight dinner. Simply toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker, and you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. A medley of colorful vegetables – including carrots, onion, garlic, and whole kernel corn – adds depth and visual appeal, while a splash of sweet red bell pepper injects a vibrant pop of color. For a creamy finish, you can opt for heavy cream or its lower-fat alternative, half-and-half – either way, the difference is imperceptible.
Leftover Turkey Nachos
If you’re a fan of chicken nachos, you’re in luck! We’re not only covering Taco Tuesday with leftover turkey tacos, but we’re also giving nachos some love. Despite being an easy and delicious snack to make at home using shredded turkey or chicken, many people surprisingly don’t make them as often as they should. Our go-to method for making mouthwatering nachos is baking them in the oven on a sheet pan – just like this recipe. To create these scrumptious snacks, simply layer your chips on the bottom of a cookie sheet, followed by your meat and cheese. If you’re a fan of beans with your nachos, drizzle some refried beans over the chips before adding the rest of the ingredients. Once the nachos are done baking, it’s time to add all the other yummy toppings.
Leftover Turkey Soup
Transforming leftover turkey into a warm, comforting pot of soup is the perfect way to breathe new life into yesterday’s meal. Just as chicken soup has long been touted as a remedy for what ails you, a hearty serving of turkey soup can work its own brand of magic, soothing and satisfying even the most discerning palates. This more-than-adequate soup recipe makes liberal use of leftover turkey, pairing it with a medley of noodles, herbs, and vegetables that will leave everyone in your household feeling full and content. Among the veggies contributing to this flavorful broth are carrots, celery, peas, potatoes, and green beans – but don’t be afraid to mix things up by adding some kale or spinach for an extra boost of nutrients. To give your turkey soup a savory kick, rely on a trifecta of fresh thyme, kosher salt, and garlic powder. And if you’re looking to really fill out this filling meal, consider trading in regular noodles for their whole-grain counterparts.
Leftover Turkey Hash
While traditional hash recipes often feature corned beef as the main ingredient, the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Any leftover meat can be transformed into a hearty, satisfying meal. One such variation features an impressive trifecta of potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, yielding a nutritious and mouthwatering result. To further enhance the health benefits, consider substituting avocado oil for butter, striking a balance between richness and wholesomeness. The aromatic presence of four cloves of garlic adds depth to the dish, while a judicious blend of sweet paprika, cayenne pepper, fresh thyme, and black pepper elevates the overall flavor profile. Serve this turkey hash with a side salad or baked sweet potato for a well-rounded, filling meal that’s sure to please.
Creamed Turkey on Toast
Creamed turkey on toast embodies the essence of comfort food, reminiscent of classic biscuits and gravy. When faced with turkey leftovers, consider freezing excess meat in airtight bags for future culinary endeavors.
Freezing turkey in advance can be a convenient way to prepare for quick and easy meals. This recipe boasts an impressive array of vegetables, including carrots, onion, celery, and peas. The flavor profile is elevated by the judicious use of dried thyme and dry mustard. To achieve an exceptionally creamy texture, consider substituting half-and-half for milk, with the option to opt for a fat-free variation as well.
Leftover Turkey Melts
Transforming a classic BLT into a turkey sandwich is a brilliant idea. This elevated creation owes its zesty flavor to an unexpected burst of Dijon mustard. A key difference from the traditional BLT is the addition of cheddar cheese, which adds a rich and velvety texture. Feel free to get creative with your lettuce choice; spring mix or any other crisp variety will do. To take your bacon game to the next level, bake it in the oven for a crispy, flat finish that’s sure to impress. The end result is a satisfyingly chunky sandwich that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Turkey Pot Pie
Looking for a stress-free meal that still packs plenty of flavor? You’ll love this effortless turkey pot pie recipe, which cleverly repurposes your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious, one-dish wonder. By incorporating roasted garlic and onions into the mix, you’ll add depth and complexity to the dish without breaking a sweat.
The aroma of fresh thyme leaves wafting from the oven is the perfect accompaniment to this satisfying meal. And don’t worry about making your own pie crust – simply use store-bought puff pastry to save time and effort. This turkey pot pie is also packed with nutritious veggies, which can be easily sourced from your freezer.
Frozen corn kernels, diced carrots, and peas all work together in harmony to create a meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is enjoyable to eat.
Leftover Turkey Empanadas
Empanadas offer an innovative solution to repurposing leftover turkey, making them a versatile culinary option. These traditional hand pies emerge from the oven with a warm, golden glow, thanks to their oven-baking process.
While Goya baking discs are a convenient choice, you can also utilize a pie crust or even create your own custom crust recipe if you’re feeling adventurous. The key is finding a crust that complements the empanada’s filling.
In terms of incorporating veggies into the mix, frozen carrots and peas provide an effortless way to add some greenery to this tasty treat.
Turkey Avocado Flatbread
The recipe’s flexibility is one of its greatest strengths, as it can easily be adapted to use leftover turkey instead of chicken. The melty pepper-jack cheese adds a rich and indulgent touch, while the avocado and iceberg lettuce provide a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors. What truly sets this flatbread apart, however, is the unique combination of ingredients – it’s not every day you see these toppings on a pizza or flatbread. To take it to the next level, serve with a drizzle of chipotle ranch dressing and crispy bacon crumbles. For even more inspiration on what to make with leftover turkey, check out the accompanying video.
Final Words
These mouthwatering recipes are sure to bring people together. Gather your loved ones, get cooking, and indulge in a culinary experience that will leave you wanting more. We’d love to hear your thoughts on these delectable dishes!