After Thanksgiving, you might find yourself with a fridge full of leftover turkey. Don’t let it go to waste! There are many tasty ways to use up that extra turkey and create new meals your family will love.
You can transform leftover turkey into soups, sandwiches, salads, and more. These recipes are easy to make and will help you avoid food waste. They’re also a great way to save time and money on meals in the days after the holiday. With a little creativity, you can turn your turkey leftovers into dishes that are just as exciting as the original Thanksgiving feast.
Turkey pot pie is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. You can easily make this comforting dish with frozen veggies and ready-made pie crusts.
Mix chopped turkey, vegetables, and creamy sauce in a pie dish. Cover it with a flaky crust and bake until golden brown.
For a quick version, use condensed soup as the sauce base. Add some shredded cheese for extra flavor. This hearty meal will satisfy your family and help clear out those Thanksgiving leftovers.
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a great way to use up leftover turkey after the holidays. This comforting dish combines diced turkey with vegetables in a savory gravy.
You’ll mix the turkey and veggies together, then top it with creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes form a golden crust when baked.
This meal is easy to make and very filling. You can use frozen peas or any other leftover vegetables you have on hand.
For extra flavor, try adding some cheese to the mashed potato topping. This hearty pie is sure to be a hit with your family.
Turkey quesadillas are a quick and tasty way to use up leftover turkey. You can make them in about 15 minutes using simple ingredients.
Start by warming your leftover turkey in a pan with some salsa. This adds flavor and moisture to the meat. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
Place a tortilla on the hot surface. Add cheese and the warmed turkey mixture. Top with another tortilla and cook until golden brown on both sides.
These quesadillas are versatile. You can use different cheeses or add vegetables like peppers for extra flavor. Serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
Turkey Tetrazzini is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. This comforting casserole combines tender turkey chunks with pasta in a creamy sauce.
You’ll mix spaghetti noodles or egg noodles with your turkey pieces. The sauce typically includes mushrooms, cheese, and sometimes peas or other vegetables.
A crispy Parmesan topping adds a delicious crunch. This dish is easy to make and feeds a crowd. Your family will love this creamy, hearty meal.
You can customize Turkey Tetrazzini to your tastes. Try adding different veggies or using rotisserie chicken instead of turkey. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Warm up some corn tortillas. Dip each one in enchilada sauce before filling. Roll them up and place in a baking dish. Pour more sauce on top and add extra cheese.
Bake the enchiladas until hot and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
You can customize your enchiladas with different sauces or toppings. Try green enchilada sauce or add some black olives on top.
Turkey tacos are a tasty way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. Start by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shredded turkey and season with taco spices like cumin and chili powder.
Cook the turkey for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. For extra flavor, add some diced jalapeño or a splash of lime juice. Heat until the meat is warmed through and slightly crispy.
Serve your seasoned turkey in warm taco shells. Top with your favorite taco fixings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. These quick and easy tacos give your turkey leftovers new life in a fun Mexican-inspired meal.
Turkey and vegetable stir-fry is a quick and tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make this dish in about 20-30 minutes.
Start by chopping your leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces. Add colorful veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli for flavor and nutrition.
Heat oil in a pan and stir-fry the vegetables until tender-crisp. Add the turkey and a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
This meal is not only fast but also healthy. It’s packed with protein from the turkey and vitamins from the vegetables. Serve it over rice or noodles for a filling dinner.
Turkey Caesar sandwiches are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make them easily with a few simple ingredients. Start by toasting some bread slices.
Mix Caesar dressing with shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Spread this mixture on the bread. Add sliced turkey, crisp lettuce, and tomatoes if you like.
For a healthier version, try using a wrap instead of bread. You can also make your own Caesar dressing without eggs for a lighter option.
These sandwiches work great for quick lunches or light dinners. You can adjust the amount of dressing to suit your taste. Add some croutons for extra crunch if you want.
Turkey and spinach lasagna is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. You’ll need lasagna noodles, turkey, spinach, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella.
Start by cooking the noodles according to package directions. Mix chopped turkey with a simple tomato sauce. In a separate bowl, combine thawed spinach with ricotta cheese.
Layer the ingredients in a baking dish. Start with sauce, then noodles, turkey mixture, spinach-ricotta blend, and mozzarella. Repeat these layers 2-3 times.
Bake the lasagna at 350°F for about 30-40 minutes until hot and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner.
Transform your leftover turkey into a tasty pizza. Mix cranberry sauce with BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy base. Spread this sauce on your pizza dough.
Add shredded turkey to the sauce-covered dough. Sprinkle on some red onions and Brussels sprout leaves for extra flavor and crunch.
Top with cheese of your choice. Mozzarella works well, but feel free to experiment. Bake the pizza in a hot oven until the crust is crispy and the cheese melts.
This unique pizza combines holiday flavors in a fun new way. It’s a great option for using up turkey and cranberry sauce after Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Turkey and cheese stuffed peppers are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Start by cutting bell peppers in half and removing the seeds.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the pepper halves on a baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes to soften them.
Mix chopped leftover turkey with cooked rice, shredded cheese, and your favorite seasonings. Spoon this mixture into the roasted pepper halves.
Top with more cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. You can add diced tomatoes or salsa for extra flavor.
Start by cooking pasta according to package directions. While it cooks, prepare the sauce. Melt butter in a skillet and sauté onions until soft. Add garlic and cook briefly.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then add your leftover turkey. Stir in cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined and heated through.
For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon, peas, or mushrooms. This versatile recipe lets you use what you have on hand to create a delicious meal.
Turkey Cobb Salad turns leftover turkey into a fresh, colorful meal. You can make this classic salad in minutes.
Start with a bed of crisp lettuce. Add rows of diced turkey, hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, and ripe avocado.
Include chopped tomatoes, blue cheese, and green onions for more flavor. For dressing, mix mayonnaise with buttermilk and your favorite seasonings.
This salad is easy to customize. You can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. It’s a great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers while enjoying a lighter meal.
Turkey burritos are a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. Start by warming large flour tortillas in the oven.
Mix shredded turkey with beans, diced tomatoes, green chiles, and spices like chili powder and cumin. Heat this mixture in a pan.
Spread mashed potatoes on each tortilla as a base layer. Add the warm turkey mixture on top. Include your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado.
Roll up the tortillas tightly, tucking in the ends. You can eat them right away or heat them briefly in the microwave. These burritos make a quick and satisfying meal.
Turkey and sweet potato hash is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Start by dicing sweet potatoes and cooking them in a skillet until tender. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic for extra flavor.
Mix in your leftover turkey, cut into small pieces. Season with herbs like sage and thyme, plus salt and pepper to taste.
Cook everything together until the turkey is heated through and the vegetables are soft. For a crispy texture, pop the skillet in a hot oven for a few minutes before serving.
Turkey and avocado wraps are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. They’re quick to make and perfect for lunch.
Start with a large tortilla. Spread mashed avocado on it. Add sliced turkey, crisp lettuce, and tomato.
For extra flavor, try adding bacon or pesto. You can also mix in some fresh veggies like cucumber or bell peppers.
Roll it up tightly and slice in half. These wraps are creamy, crunchy, and full of good flavors. They’re easy to take on the go for work or school lunches.
You can customize your wrap based on what you like. Try different spreads or cheeses to change it up.
Turkey and corn chowder is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in butter until soft.
Add flour to create a roux, then slowly pour in broth and cream. Stir in diced potatoes, corn, and seasonings like thyme and garlic powder.
Simmer until the potatoes are tender. Add your leftover turkey and cook for a few more minutes. For extra creaminess, blend part of the soup and return it to the pot.
Top with crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley before serving. This hearty chowder is perfect for chilly days and ready in about 40 minutes.
Turkey Bolognese is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes on the stovetop. It’s a quick and easy meal for busy days after the holidays.
To make Turkey Bolognese, shred your leftover turkey and add it to a rich tomato sauce. You can also toss in any leftover vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
This hearty sauce goes well with pasta, making it a comforting meal. It’s a great choice when you want something different from typical turkey leftovers.
Try serving your Turkey Bolognese over spaghetti or your favorite pasta shape. It’s a filling dinner that your family will enjoy.
Turkey and wild rice soup is a tasty way to use your leftover turkey. Start by sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in butter until soft. Add flour to make a roux, then slowly whisk in turkey broth.
Stir in wild rice and simmer until tender, about 35 minutes. Add your shredded turkey meat and cook until heated through. For extra flavor, try adding mushrooms or spinach.
Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. A splash of cream at the end gives the soup a rich, velvety texture. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days after the holidays.
Turkey stuffed zucchini boats are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Cut zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the inside.
Mix chopped turkey with onions, garlic, and spices. Add some tomato sauce for moisture. Spoon the mixture into the zucchini halves.
Bake the stuffed zucchini boats in a 400°F oven for about 20 minutes. Top with cheese in the last few minutes if you like.
This dish is low-carb and full of vegetables. You can customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins. It’s an easy way to transform turkey leftovers into a new meal.
Turkey and barley soup is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Add minced garlic and cook briefly.
Pour in turkey broth and add pearl barley. Simmer for about 45 minutes until the barley is tender. Stir in shredded leftover turkey meat and cook for a few more minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or sage. You can also add other vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
This hearty soup is perfect for cold days. It’s filling, nutritious, and easy to make with ingredients you likely have on hand.
Turkey and pesto panini is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make this sandwich in about 15 minutes.
Spread pesto on slices of bread. Add turkey, cheese, tomatoes, and avocado. Grill the sandwich until the bread turns golden and the cheese melts.
You can use different types of cheese like provolone or mozzarella. This panini works well for lunch or a quick dinner. It’s more exciting than a plain turkey sandwich.
The pesto adds lots of flavor to the turkey. You’ll end up with a warm, crispy sandwich that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Understanding Leftover Turkey
Leftover turkey is a common sight after big holiday meals. It’s important to handle and store it properly to keep it safe for eating.
You should refrigerate leftover turkey within 2 hours of cooking. Cut it into smaller pieces and store in airtight containers. Properly stored, leftover turkey can last 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze leftover turkey. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging. Frozen turkey can stay good for up to 4 months.
When reheating turkey, make sure it reaches 165°F (74°C) internal temperature. This kills any harmful bacteria that might have grown.
Leftover turkey is versatile. You can use it in sandwiches, salads, soups, and casseroles. It’s a great protein source for quick meals.
Don’t let leftover turkey go to waste. With proper storage and creative recipes, you can enjoy it for days after your holiday feast.
Best Practices for Storing Leftover Turkey
After your Thanksgiving feast, proper storage of leftover turkey is key to keeping it safe and tasty. Here are some tips to help you store your turkey correctly:
Cool it quickly. Don’t leave turkey out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Cut large pieces into smaller portions to speed up cooling.
Use airtight containers. Store turkey in shallow, airtight containers or wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This prevents drying out and contamination.
Refrigerate promptly. Put leftover turkey in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. The fridge should be set at 40°F (4°C) or below.
Freeze for longer storage. If you won’t eat the turkey within 3-4 days, freeze it. Use freezer bags or airtight containers. Frozen turkey stays good for 2-6 months.
Label containers. Write the date on containers so you know how long they’ve been stored.
Use separate containers. Store different parts of the turkey separately. This makes it easier to use just what you need later.
Reheat safely. When reheating, make sure the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) throughout. Use a food thermometer to check.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your leftover turkey safely in the days after Thanksgiving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Proper handling of leftover turkey is crucial for food safety and flavor. Watch out for these common errors to make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Improper Storage
Don’t leave turkey at room temperature for over 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly, making the meat unsafe to eat. Cut the turkey into small pieces and store in airtight containers. Put leftovers in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.
Keep turkey in the coldest part of your fridge, usually the back. Use refrigerated turkey within 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze turkey in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Label containers with the date to track freshness. Frozen turkey stays good for 2-6 months. Thaw frozen turkey in the fridge, not on the counter.
Overcooking During Reheating
Reheating turkey can dry it out if you’re not careful. Use low heat and add moisture to keep the meat tender. Cover turkey with foil or a lid when reheating in the oven. This traps steam and prevents drying.
Add a splash of broth or gravy before reheating. This boosts flavor and moisture. Heat turkey to 165°F (74°C) to kill bacteria, but avoid going much higher.
Use a food thermometer to check the temperature. Microwave in short bursts, stirring between. Let turkey rest for a few minutes after reheating to distribute heat evenly.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
