45+ Creative Turkey Leftover Ideas to Try This Year
Got some turkey leftovers and not sure what to do with them? This list of 45+ ideas will help you whip up delicious meals that make the most of your holiday bird, from turkey sandwiches and soups to casseroles and salads. Let’s turn those leftovers into something exciting!
Savory Turkey Pot Pie
Turkey pot pie is a cozy dish that brings warmth to any meal. The image shows a golden-brown pie crust, perfectly baked and slightly flaky. You can see chunks of turkey and colorful veggies peeking through the crust, hinting at the delicious filling inside.
This dish is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. It combines tender turkey pieces with hearty vegetables like potatoes and carrots, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. The crust adds a satisfying crunch that balances the softness of the filling.
Making a turkey pot pie is simple. Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add your leftover turkey and veggies. Pour in some broth and seasonings, letting it simmer until everything is tender. Pour this mixture into a pie crust, cover it with another layer, and bake until golden.
This dish is not just comforting; it’s also a great way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving long after the holiday. Serve it with a side salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Turkey Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Turkey tacos are a fun and tasty way to use up leftover turkey. They’re quick to make and packed with flavor. Just imagine biting into a warm tortilla filled with juicy turkey, topped with fresh avocado salsa.
To make these tacos, start with shredded turkey. You can season it with your favorite spices or just use what you have on hand. Warm the tortillas and fill them with the turkey. Then, add a generous scoop of avocado salsa on top. This salsa is made with ripe avocados, diced tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
Serve these tacos with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. They’re perfect for a casual dinner or a quick lunch. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults!
Turkey Salad with Cranberries and Nuts
This turkey salad is a delightful way to use up those Thanksgiving leftovers. It’s colorful and packed with flavor, making it a perfect lunch or light dinner option. The combination of turkey, cranberries, and nuts creates a wonderful mix of textures and tastes.
Start with a base of fresh greens, like spinach or romaine. Add diced turkey, which can be from your holiday feast. Toss in some dried cranberries for a sweet touch and a handful of nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for crunch. A light vinaigrette or a creamy dressing can tie everything together.
This salad is not only tasty but also nutritious. It’s a great way to enjoy the holiday flavors without the heaviness of a traditional meal. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to choice for busy days after the holidays.
Turkey Fried Rice with Vegetables
Turkey fried rice is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The image shows a delicious bowl of fried rice, featuring fluffy grains mixed with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and green onions.
To make this dish, start with cooked rice and diced turkey. Sauté some garlic and onion in a pan, then add your turkey and vegetables. Stir in soy sauce for that savory kick. Finish with a sprinkle of green onions for freshness.
This meal is not just tasty; it’s also versatile. You can toss in any veggies you have on hand, making it a great way to clean out the fridge. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and enjoy a satisfying meal that comes together in no time!
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
This turkey and sweet potato hash is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. The combination of tender sweet potatoes and savory turkey makes for a hearty meal. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Start by dicing your sweet potatoes and cooking them until they’re soft. Then, add in your leftover turkey, breaking it into bite-sized pieces. Season with your favorite spices for an extra kick. A sunny-side-up egg on top adds a nice touch and makes it feel like a special breakfast or brunch.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, for a pop of color and flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to clear out your fridge after the holidays!
Turkey Chili with Beans
Turkey chili with beans is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. This dish is hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a chilly day or when you want something comforting.
The image shows a vibrant bowl of chili, brimming with colorful ingredients like beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Fresh cilantro on top adds a nice touch. Next to the bowl, there’s some cornbread, which pairs perfectly with the chili.
To make this dish, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot. Add your leftover turkey, beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Season with chili powder, cumin, and salt. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes to blend the flavors. Serve it hot with a side of cornbread for a complete meal.
Creamy Turkey and Spinach Pasta
Leftover turkey can be a real treat, especially when transformed into a creamy turkey and spinach pasta. This dish is not only comforting but also quick to whip up. Imagine twirling your fork around perfectly cooked spaghetti, coated in a rich, creamy sauce.
The vibrant green spinach adds a fresh touch, balancing the flavors beautifully. You can use any leftover turkey, whether it’s from a holiday feast or a simple roast. Just shred it up and toss it into the mix!
To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: cooked spaghetti, leftover turkey, fresh spinach, cream, garlic, and some grated cheese for that extra flavor. Start by sautéing garlic in a pan, then add the cream and let it simmer. Toss in the turkey and spinach, and finally, mix it all with the pasta. Top it off with cheese, and you’re ready to enjoy a delicious meal!
Turkey and Cranberry Quesadillas
Turkey and cranberry quesadillas are a fun and tasty way to use up those Thanksgiving leftovers. Picture a warm, crispy tortilla filled with savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted cheese. It’s a simple dish that brings a delightful twist to your holiday favorites.
To make these quesadillas, start with some tortillas. Layer shredded turkey, a spoonful of cranberry sauce, and your choice of cheese. Cheddar or mozzarella works great! Fold the tortilla in half and cook it on a skillet until golden brown. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a side of fresh salsa for a little extra flavor.
This recipe is not just quick; it’s also customizable. You can add veggies like bell peppers or onions for a crunch. If you like a bit of heat, toss in some jalapeños. These quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner.
Turkey Curry with Coconut Milk
Turkey curry with coconut milk is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. The creamy coconut milk adds a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices in the curry. This dish is not only comforting but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan. Add your leftover turkey, along with curry powder and any other spices you enjoy. Pour in the coconut milk and let it simmer. The result is a deliciously creamy curry that will warm you up.
Serve it over rice or with naan for a complete meal. Fresh cilantro on top adds a nice touch and a burst of freshness. This dish is sure to become a favorite way to enjoy turkey leftovers!
Turkey and Broccoli Casserole
Turkey and broccoli casserole is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. This dish combines tender turkey pieces with fresh broccoli, all topped with a crunchy, golden layer. It’s comforting and easy to make, perfect for a cozy meal.
Start with your leftover turkey, shredded or chopped. Add fresh or frozen broccoli to the mix for a pop of color and nutrition. A creamy sauce binds everything together, making each bite delicious. Top it off with breadcrumbs or cheese for that satisfying crunch.
To make this casserole, simply layer the turkey and broccoli in a baking dish. Pour over the sauce, sprinkle your topping, and bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a simple recipe that brings a smile to the table.
This casserole is not only tasty but also versatile. You can add other veggies or spices to suit your taste. It’s a great way to clear out the fridge while enjoying a hearty meal.
Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Turkey stuffed bell peppers are a fun and tasty way to use up leftover turkey. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture that makes for a satisfying meal. You can use any bell pepper color you like—red, yellow, or green—all of them add a nice pop to your plate.
Start by cooking some rice or quinoa as a base. Mix in your leftover turkey, some diced tomatoes, onions, and spices. You can even add cheese for extra creaminess. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers and top with more cheese if you like.
Once they’re all packed up, bake them in the oven until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing. It’s a great way to enjoy your leftovers while keeping things fresh and exciting!
Turkey and Cheese Sandwich on Whole Grain
This turkey and cheese sandwich is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. The whole grain bread adds a hearty touch, making it filling and nutritious.
Start with slices of whole grain bread. Layer on some turkey, cheese, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato slices. You can even add a slice of lemon for a zesty kick. This sandwich is not just tasty; it’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies.
Pair it with some crunchy chips or a side salad for a complete meal. This simple yet satisfying sandwich is perfect for lunch or a quick snack. Enjoy your turkey leftovers in a new and delicious way!
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Leftover turkey can shine in a quick and colorful stir-fry. This dish is perfect for using up those holiday leftovers while adding a fresh twist. The vibrant mix of vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also makes the meal visually appealing.
Start with your leftover turkey, cut into bite-sized pieces. Toss in a variety of veggies like bell peppers, green onions, and snap peas. The crunch of the vegetables pairs well with the tender turkey. A simple stir-fry sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger can bring everything together beautifully.
Serve this stir-fry over a bed of rice or noodles for a satisfying meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick dinner that feels special without much effort. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce food waste and enjoy every last bit of your holiday feast!
Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Turkey and Mushroom Risotto is a cozy dish that brings together leftover turkey and earthy mushrooms. This creamy risotto is perfect for using up that extra turkey from your holiday feast.
Start by sautéing some onions and garlic in a pan. Add arborio rice and toast it lightly. Gradually stir in chicken broth, letting the rice absorb the liquid slowly. Once the rice is nearly cooked, fold in your chopped turkey and sautéed mushrooms.
Finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. This dish is not just filling; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, making it a great way to enjoy your leftovers.
Spicy Turkey Sliders with Coleslaw
These spicy turkey sliders are a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. They are small, flavorful, and perfect for any gathering. The image shows a platter of sliders, each topped with a toothpick for easy serving. The golden-brown buns are soft and inviting, while the vibrant coleslaw peeks out from underneath the top bun.
To make these sliders, start with your leftover turkey. Shred it and mix it with your favorite spices, like cayenne pepper or paprika, for that extra kick. Form the mixture into small patties and cook them until golden. Place each patty on a bun with a generous scoop of coleslaw for crunch and flavor.
These sliders are not just tasty; they are also quick to prepare. Serve them with a side of dipping sauce or your favorite beverage for a complete meal. They are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
