Leftover Turkey Stroganoff

With the holidays approaching, you might find yourself surrounded by an abundance of leftover turkey.

No need to stress about the same old turkey sandwich; try this delicious and simple Leftover Turkey Stroganoff recipe to give your taste buds a delightful surprise.

This dish not only transforms your leftovers into a scrumptious meal, but it also displays your culinary creativity.

Turkey Stroganoff is a perfect blend of rich, creamy sauce and nutritious turkey, giving a fresh twist on a classic comfort food recipe. This dish can be prepared in just a few easy steps, allowing you to incorporate your leftover turkey in a time-efficient manner. Its versatility also lets you experiment with various other ingredients according to your preferences, making it a favorite for family gatherings.

Don’t let your leftover turkey sit idly in your fridge. Embrace the opportunity to create a delicious Leftover Turkey Stroganoff that is sure to impress your friends and family. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this mouthwatering dish that truly showcases your resourcefulness and culinary talent.

Ingredients and Preparation

Main Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Leftover Turkey Stroganoff, gather the following main ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked, diced roast turkey
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups sliced mushrooms
  • 3 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 oz egg noodles or your preferred pasta

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, mushrooms, and minced garlic, cooking until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the butter and allow it to melt. Next, sprinkle in the flour, stirring to coat the vegetables and create a roux. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to thicken. Reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Finally, add the diced turkey to heat through.

While preparing the sauce, cook the egg noodles or pasta according to package instructions.

Alternative Substitutions

If you or your family have dietary restrictions, preferences, or simply want to change things up, consider these alternative substitutions:

  • Swap chicken for turkey as a different protein option.
  • For non-dairy options, use greek yogurt in place of sour cream or heavy cream mixed with a bit of lemon juice.
  • To make the recipe gluten-free, substitute rice flour for regular flour and use gluten-free rice or cauliflower rice instead of noodles.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in some turkey gravy or beef gravy.
  • For a hint of smokiness, add a pinch of paprika to the seasoning.
  • Replace egg noodles with mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with seasonings and spices – this Leftover Turkey Stroganoff can be tailored to your preferences and become a staple in your holiday-season meal rotation.

Cooking Instructions

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Cooking With a Skillet

To make this easy leftover turkey stroganoff recipe, you’ll need a large skillet for best results. Follow these simple steps to ensure a perfectly cooked and flavorful dish.

  1. Prep time: Have all your ingredients ready, including your turkey leftovers, fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary.
  2. Cook time: In the skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. Next, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the skillet, stirring constantly to form a paste-like consistency. Cook for about 1 minute.
  4. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Bring it to a simmer and let the sauce thicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of dijon mustard, and turkey leftovers (both white and dark meat), allowing it to heat through for about 4-5 minutes.
  6. Finally, add in your herbs: 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves, 1/2 teaspoon of chopped fresh rosemary, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
  7. Serve your turkey stroganoff over low-carb noodles or rice.

Total time: Approximately 25 minutes

Tips for Enhancing Flavour

To elevate your turkey stroganoff recipe to greater heights and make it savory, try these tips:

  • Consider brining your turkey before Thanksgiving; it helps lock in moisture, resulting in a juicier, more flavorsome turkey.
  • For a richer stroganoff sauce, use full-fat sour cream instead of reduced-fat options.
  • Add a pinch of curry powder to the sauce for a unique twist on the traditional stroganoff recipe.
  • Use a combination of white and dark turkey meat for greater depth of flavor.
  • Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.

With these tips and instructions, your leftover turkey stroganoff dish will be a delicious way to use up any leftover Thanksgiving turkey.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Storing and Freezing

To store your leftover turkey stroganoff, simply place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing your leftover turkey recipe. To do so, allow the stroganoff to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some room at the top for expansion.

Frozen leftover turkey stroganoff can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it over low heat on the stovetop. You may need to add a little white wine or leftover gravy to loosen the sauce during reheating. Overcooked vegetables in the dish may become slightly mushy, but the deliciousness of the comfort food will remain intact.

Serving Ideas

Looking to get creative with your leftover turkey recipes? Here are some lovely serving suggestions for your leftover turkey stroganoff:

  1. Over grains: Serve the stroganoff over a bed of rice, barley or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce.
  2. With pasta: Toss with cooked egg noodles or your favorite pasta for a satisfying and comforting meal.
  3. Alongside vegetables: Pair your stroganoff with steamed or roasted vegetables for a more health-conscious option.
  4. In a Russian-style: For a more traditional Russian experience, serve your stroganoff with thick-cut fries, mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes.

Don’t forget to garnish your dish with chopped fresh parsley. Aside from adding a pop of color, parsley will provide a burst of freshness that complements the robust flavors of the dish. While nutritional information may vary depending on the ingredients and serving size, remember that indulging in holiday turkey leftovers can still be part of a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation and combined with vegetables or whole grains.

Keep these expert tips in mind for storage and serving suggestions, ensuring you can make the most out of your leftover turkey stroganoff recipe and share a comforting, delicious meal with family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the best way to prepare easy turkey stroganoff?

To prepare easy turkey stroganoff, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a large skillet. Add sliced cooked turkey and cook until warm. Stir in sliced mushrooms and continue to cook until tender. In a separate bowl, combine a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and a splash of milk. Pour this mixture over the turkey and vegetables, allowing it to simmer until heated through. Serve over cooked egg noodles or your choice of pasta.

Can turkey stroganoff be made in a crockpot?

Yes, turkey stroganoff can be made in a crockpot. Combine cooked turkey, frozen or fresh sliced mushrooms, diced onions, minced garlic, and a can of condensed cream of mushroom soup in the crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in sour cream and continue to cook on low. Serve over cooked noodles or rice.

How to make turkey stroganoff with rice?

To make turkey stroganoff with rice, follow the standard stroganoff recipe but replace the egg noodles or pasta with cooked rice. You can use white, brown, or even wild rice according to your preference. Simply cook the rice according to the package instructions, and serve the stroganoff sauce over the top.

What variations can be made using cream cheese in turkey stroganoff?

For a creamy, tangy twist on turkey stroganoff, you can substitute cream cheese for the sour cream. Soften the cream cheese and mix with the condensed cream of mushroom soup and a splash of milk. Add this mixture to the turkey and vegetables, allowing it to simmer until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and freshness.

Are there any healthy alternatives for turkey stroganoff?

To create a healthier version of turkey stroganoff, consider these alternatives: use whole wheat noodles or brown rice instead of egg noodles, replace the condensed cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using low-sodium broth and a roux made from whole wheat flour and olive oil, and substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.

What steps should be taken to store and preserve turkey leftovers?

To store and preserve turkey leftovers, follow these steps:

  1. Allow the leftover turkey to cool down to room temperature.
  2. Remove any stuffing from the turkey and store separately.
  3. Keep the turkey portions in airtight containers, or wrap properly using aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
  4. Store leftover turkey in the refrigerator (up to 3-4 days) or the freezer (up to 3-4 months) depending on when you plan to use it.
  5. Reheat thoroughly before using in recipes such as turkey stroganoff.