Delicious Leftover Turkey Recipes You Need to Try

As you enjoy the last bits of your Thanksgiving meal, you might have leftover turkey. Instead of letting it go to waste, why not turn it into something new? Explore these leftover turkey recipes for a culinary journey.

These recipes range from warm casseroles and soups to tasty sandwiches and salads. They show that leftover turkey can be the main attraction in many dishes. You can make everything from a cozy turkey tetrazzini to a zesty southwestern enchilada.

Don’t settle for boring turkey sandwiches anymore. Try these creative recipes to give your Thanksgiving leftovers a new life. Get ready to enjoy the flavors and the joy of making something special from leftover turkey.

Key Takeaways

• Discover a range of delicious and innovative recipes to repurpose your leftover Thanksgiving turkey
• Explore various cooking methods, including casseroles, soups, sandwiches, and salads, to enjoy your turkey in new ways
• Learn how to make the most of every last morsel by incorporating leftover sides and bones into flavorful dishes
• Experiment with diverse flavor profiles, from classic comfort foods to international-inspired creations
• Enjoy the convenience of quick and easy turkey-based meals for busy weeknights or family gatherings

Getting Creative with Your Thanksgiving Turkey Leftovers

Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition, filled with delicious turkey leftovers. Instead of wasting these, why not turn them into new meals? You can make everything from classic comfort dishes to international flavors. The possibilities are endless with leftover turkey.

Best Storage Methods for Leftover Turkey

Keeping your turkey leftovers fresh is key. Use airtight containers or sturdy freezer bags to keep moisture in. For the fridge, eat the turkey within 3-4 days. Freezing can keep it good for up to 3-4 months.

Essential Tools for Leftover Turkey Recipes

• A sharp carving knife for effortless slicing and dicing
• A food processor for creating creamy turkey salads and spreads
• Casserole dishes and baking pans for comforting baked dishes

Tips for Maintaining Turkey Moisture

To keep your turkey moist, store it with gravy or broth. When reheating, use gentle heat to avoid drying it out. Basting with broth or melted butter also helps keep it juicy.

With these tips, you’re ready to get creative. Check out turkey leftovers meal ideas and creative turkey leftover recipes to make your Thanksgiving leftovers shine.

Classic Turkey Tetrazzini: A Cheesy Comfort Dish

Make your leftover turkey special with a classic turkey tetrazzini. It’s a cheesy casserole great for cold winter days. It has tender turkey, spaghetti, and creamy mushroom sauce. It’s topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and cheese.

Turkey tetrazzini is perfect for busy days because you can make it ahead. Just put it together, cover it, and refrigerate for up to two days. Then, bake it when you’re ready.

To make this turkey tetrazzini, start by cooking the spaghetti almost al dente. Then, sauté mushrooms and garlic in butter. This makes a tasty base.

Next, whisk in flour, broth, and cream cheese for a creamy sauce. Add the turkey, olives, peas, and white wine for extra flavor.

Top it with Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and panko breadcrumbs. Add crispy bacon bits for extra texture and taste. Bake until it’s golden and bubbly.

If you want to use up turkey leftovers or just want something cozy, try this turkey tetrazzini. It’s perfect with a fresh salad or roasted veggies. Enjoy!

For more tasty ways to use turkey leftovers, check out our turkey leftover casseroles and other recipes.

Hearty Turkey Wild Rice Soup

Make your leftover turkey special with this tasty turkey soup. It mixes the rich turkey flavor with wild rice’s nutty taste. This soup is a warm, satisfying way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers.

Selecting the Perfect Wild Rice

Choose high-quality wild rice for this soup. It adds an earthy, chewy texture that goes well with turkey. A mix of long-grain wild rice and brown rice gives the best taste and texture.

Adding Fresh Herbs and Seasonings

Use fresh herbs and seasonings to boost the turkey’s flavor. Thyme, rosemary, and sage add depth, while poultry seasoning and black pepper round out the taste. These flavors make the soup comforting and nourishing.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This soup is great for meal prep or leftovers. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding broth if it’s too thick.

This turkey soup recipe turns Thanksgiving leftovers into a cozy meal. It combines wild rice, veggies, and turkey for a family favorite.

Ultimate Turkey Cranberry Panini

Discover the flavors of Thanksgiving with the Ultimate Turkey Cranberry Panini. It’s a grilled sandwich with tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, melted Swiss cheese, and savory dressing. It’s a perfect mix of tastes.

To make this sandwich, start with Dijon mustard on two slices of sourdough bread. Add 3/4 cup of leftover roast turkey and 1/3 cup of cranberry sauce on one slice. Then, add 1/3 cup of leftover dressing and 2 tablespoons of warm gravy. Place two slices of Swiss cheese on the other slice and put the sandwich together.

Butter the bread with 2 tablespoons of room-temperature salted butter. Grill it in a cast-iron skillet or panini press until it’s golden-brown and the cheese is melted. You can also broil it on a baking sheet for a quick option.

Add pickle slices and a dash of barbecue sauce for a fun twist. Serve it warm with extra gravy for dipping. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.

With a few ingredients and some creativity, you can turn leftovers into a delicious grilled sandwich. This turkey leftovers sandwich is perfect for a quick meal or a post-holiday gathering.

Leftover Turkey Recipes for Quick Family Meals

Turn your Thanksgiving turkey leftovers into tasty meals for your family. These recipes are quick and easy. They’re perfect for a 30-minute dinner or something the kids will love.

30-Minute Turkey Dinner Ideas

For a fast and tasty turkey dinner, try a turkey and stuffing casserole with crispy french-fried onions on top. You can also make turkey quesadillas with cranberry salsa or a turkey pizza with Alfredo sauce and spinach.

Kid-Friendly Turkey Recipes

• Turkey mac and cheese casserole: Creamy, cheesy, and full of protein.
• Mini turkey pot pies in muffin tins: A cozy classic in individual servings.
• Turkey noodle skillet: Tender turkey, egg noodles, and veggies in one pan.

These quick and easy turkey recipes can make your holiday feast last all week. Enjoy the flavors of the season without spending too much time cooking.

Creamy Turkey Pot Pie with Homemade Crust

Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this turkey pot pie recipe. It has tender turkey, fresh veggies, and creamy sauce, all in a flaky crust. It’s a great way to use up your Thanksgiving turkey leftovers.

First, make a homemade pie crust or use one from the store. Add shredded cheddar cheese to the crust for extra flavor. Then, sauté diced onions, carrots, and celery in butter until they’re soft.

Add the cooked turkey, flour to thicken, and seasonings like thyme and pepper. Pour in chicken or turkey broth and heavy cream. Let it simmer until it’s creamy.

Stir in frozen peas for color and texture. Put the filling in a pie plate or ramekins. Cover with the crust.

Bake until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles. This takes about 40 to 55 minutes. Let it cool a bit before serving. It’s a dish that will please everyone.

For best results, keep leftover turkey pot pie in the fridge for 3 days or freeze for a month. Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 20-25 minutes.

“This turkey pot pie is the ultimate comfort food and a great way to use up your holiday leftovers. The homemade crust takes it to the next level!”

Turkey and Wild Mushroom Casserole

Turn leftover turkey into a cozy casserole with wild mushrooms. This dish mixes tender turkey, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce. It’s perfect for creative turkey leftover recipes or using up Thanksgiving leftovers.

Best Mushroom Varieties to Use

For the best flavor, mix different wild mushrooms. Great choices include:

• Shiitake mushrooms
• Cremini (or baby bella) mushrooms
• Oyster mushrooms
• Porcini mushrooms

These mushrooms add earthy, savory, and umami tastes. They enhance the turkey and creamy sauce.

Making the Perfect Cream Sauce

To make a smooth sauce, use a béchamel or white sauce. You can also use cream of mushroom soup for a quick option. Season it well with herbs, spices, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish.

This turkey leftover casserole is a great way to use up leftovers. Serve it with a salad or roasted veggies for a full meal.

“This turkey and wild mushroom casserole is a game-changer for using up leftovers. The combination of flavors is absolutely delicious!”

– Sarah, Food Blogger

Fresh and Light Turkey Harvest Bowls

Want a healthier way to enjoy Thanksgiving turkey leftovers? Try these tasty turkey salad recipes – Turkey Harvest Bowls. They mix diced turkey with roasted veggies, wild rice, and leafy greens for a nutritious meal.

These bowls are great because you can make them your own. Start with your favorite grains like quinoa or farro. Add leftover turkey and roasted veggies like sweet potatoes and carrots. Finish with goat cheese, almonds, and balsamic vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.

These healthy leftover turkey recipes are not only tasty but also make the most of your leftovers. With a few changes, your turkey becomes a fresh, vibrant dish. Try different veggies and flavors to find your favorite Turkey Harvest Bowl.

“These harvest bowls are a game-changer for me. They’re a great way to use up my leftover turkey in a way that’s both nutritious and incredibly tasty.”

So, grab your leftover turkey and roast some veggies. Enjoy a wholesome Turkey Harvest Bowl. Your taste buds and waistline will love it!

Homemade Turkey Stock from Leftovers

Don’t let the turkey carcass waste away. Use it to make a delicious turkey stock recipe. Simmer the bones with veggies and herbs to get a flavorful broth. This broth can make your leftover turkey recipes even better.

Using Turkey Bones and Aromatics

Begin by putting the turkey carcass in a big pot. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Pour in about 4 quarts of water. Let it simmer gently for 2-4 hours to blend the flavors.

Storage and Freezing Methods

1. After simmering, strain the stock through a fine-mesh sieve to get rid of the solids.
2. Let the broth cool down before putting it in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags.
3. The homemade turkey stock can stay in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for 4-6 months.
4. Freeze it in 1-cup servings for easy use later.

This turkey stock recipe makes a rich, tasty broth. Use it in soups, sauces, and more. Don’t let Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste. Use them in your cooking!

Turkey Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potato Topping

Thanksgiving leftovers can be turned into a delicious Turkey Shepherd’s Pie. It’s filled with tender turkey, veggies, and a tasty gravy. The creamy mashed potatoes on top make it a hit with everyone.

To start, make the mashed potato topping. Boil and mash Yukon gold potatoes. Then, mix in butter, heavy cream, egg yolk, Swiss cheese, salt, and pepper. Set it aside while you make the filling.

In a skillet, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms until they’re soft. Add garlic, flour, and seasonings for a flavorful gravy. Stir in the turkey, green beans, and herbs. Put the filling in a baking dish and cover with mashed potatoes.

Bake until the potatoes are golden and the filling is bubbly. Let it cool for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend perfectly. You can make it ahead and freeze it for later. It’s a great creative turkey leftover recipe.

“The Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a delicious way to repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers into a comforting and satisfying meal.”

This Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a hit with its savory filling and creamy potatoes. It’s perfect for cozy autumn dinners. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Tips for Making Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

• Try adding different veggies like peas, corn, or mixed frozen vegetables.
• Use leftover mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for a twist.
• Top with a flaky pie crust or biscuit dough for texture.
• Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months for a quick meal.

By turning leftover turkey into a shepherd’s pie, you create a tasty dish. The mashed potato topping and savory filling make it a hit. It’s a great way to enjoy Thanksgiving flavors long after the holiday.

Easy Turkey Salad with Cranberries

Leftover turkey is a treasure that keeps giving. Enjoy it in a tasty turkey salad. This recipe mixes turkey with apples, celery, and dried cranberries. A simple dressing of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and spices brings it all together.

You can eat this turkey salad on its own, in a sandwich, or on greens. It’s great because you can add your favorite nuts, herbs, or mix-ins.

This turkey salad recipe is quick to make, just 15 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. Make a batch and enjoy it all week for a tasty, easy meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups diced cooked turkey
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 2 ribs celery, diced
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped dill
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the turkey, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Make sure the turkey is well coated.
2. Add cranberries, celery, green onions, parsley, dill, and lemon juice. Stir until everything is mixed well.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if needed.
4. Serve the salad on its own, on greens, or in a sandwich. Enjoy!

This turkey salad with cranberries is not just tasty, it’s also a smart way to use leftover turkey. Its mix of flavors and textures will make it a family favorite.

“This turkey salad is a game-changer! The cranberries add such a lovely sweetness and the Dijon mustard gives it a nice kick. I’ve been enjoying it for lunch all week.”

Southwestern Turkey Enchiladas

Turn leftover turkey into a flavorful fiesta with these Southwestern Turkey Enchiladas. You can make your own enchilada sauce or use store-bought for ease. Either way, these enchiladas will satisfy your Tex-Mex cravings.

Making the Perfect Enchilada Sauce

Begin by making a rich enchilada sauce. Sauté onions and garlic in a pan. Then, add chili powder, cumin, and spices. Mix in tomato sauce, broth, and a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness.

Let the sauce simmer. This lets the flavors blend and get stronger.

Assembly and Baking Tips

Warm tortillas to make them easy to roll. Fill them with turkey, black beans, corn, and cheese. Roll them up tightly and place in a dish.

Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with more cheese. Bake until the cheese melts and the enchiladas are hot.

For a fuller meal, try these turkey leftover casseroles or creative turkey leftover recipes with your enchiladas. The mix of bold flavors and tender turkey will delight your taste buds.

Turn Thanksgiving leftovers into a spicy Southwestern dish with these turkey enchiladas. The mix of tender turkey, melted cheese, and flavorful sauce will have everyone asking for more.

Mini Turkey Pot Pies in Ramekins

Turn leftover turkey into delicious mini pot pies. They’re great for individual servings. Use small ramekins or oven-safe dishes for baking. Top with puff pastry or homemade pie crust for a beautiful look.

The recipe makes 8 cups of savory turkey filling. This is enough for eight 8-ounce servings or four 16-ounce servings. You can also make two 32-ounce family-sized pot pies. The filling thickens with flour, making it tender and flavorful.

Bake the puff pastry at 400°F (204°C) until golden brown. Or, use homemade pie crust for a heartier texture. These individual pot pies look great and are easy to portion out. You can add leftover turkey, diced vegetables, and creamy sauce to the fillings. Serve them as a main dish or with a fresh salad for a complete meal.