Thanksgiving has come and gone, the laughter has settled, and your fridge is bursting with more leftover turkey than you know what to do with. Instead of letting that delicious bird sit unloved in the back of your refrigerator, why not give it new life?
1. Turkey Cranberry Panini
Get cozy with this hearty sandwich that pairs the savory notes of turkey with the tangy sweetness of leftover cranberry sauce. Stack your turkey slices on crusty bread with melty Swiss cheese and a hint of fresh arugula for a peppery kick.
Toasted to perfection in a panini press or on the stovetop, this meal will remind you why leftovers can be even better than the original feast.
2. Turkey Pot Pie
Transform your turkey into a comforting classic with a warm and hearty turkey pot pie. Combine shredded turkey with a mix of vegetables, rich gravy, and seasonings, then tuck it all beneath a flaky golden crust.
Baked until bubbly and golden, this dish wraps you in a cozy hug with every bite and is perfect for chilly post-holiday nights.
3. Turkey Tacos with Chipotle Aioli
Give your turkey a spicy twist by making turkey tacos that pack a flavorful punch. Toss shredded turkey with taco seasoning and quickly sauté for a crispy, caramelized edge. Top with fresh cabbage, a drizzle of chipotle aioli, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese for a taco that delivers bold, zesty flavors in every bite.
4. Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Upgrade your breakfast or brunch game with a skillet of turkey and sweet potato hash. Dice sweet potatoes and sauté them with onions until golden and tender, then toss in your leftover turkey and some herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Crack a few eggs on top and bake until they’re just set, creating a dish that’s perfect for starting your day with a taste of Thanksgiving.
5. Creamy Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Make the most of colder weather with a steaming bowl of creamy turkey wild rice soup. This comforting dish is rich, hearty, and packed with chunks of turkey, wild rice, carrots, and celery in a creamy broth.
A touch of garlic and thyme rounds out the flavor, making this soup perfect for lunch or dinner, paired with crusty bread for dipping.
6. Turkey Alfredo Pizza
Combine your love of pizza with your Thanksgiving leftovers by creating a turkey alfredo pizza. Spread a layer of creamy alfredo sauce over your favorite pizza dough, add generous chunks of turkey, and top with mozzarella cheese.
Sprinkle some chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a gourmet touch, bake until golden and bubbly, and watch this dish disappear in minutes.
7. Turkey and Avocado Salad
If you’re craving something a bit lighter after the indulgence of Thanksgiving, try a turkey and avocado salad. Toss mixed greens with leftover turkey, creamy avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon.
A sprinkle of feta cheese and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette complete this refreshing dish that’ll have you feeling balanced and satisfied.
8. BBQ Turkey Sliders
Turn your turkey into a handheld delight with these BBQ turkey sliders. Shred your turkey and coat it in your favorite BBQ sauce before piling it onto soft slider buns. Add a crunchy slaw and pickle slices for a sweet and tangy kick that makes these sliders perfect for game day or an afternoon snack.
9. Turkey Fried Rice
Add a twist to an Asian favorite with turkey fried rice. Sauté leftover turkey with day-old rice, peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs, all tossed in a savory blend of soy sauce and sesame oil. This quick and easy meal will become your new go-to when you want a no-fuss dinner that tastes incredible.
10. Turkey-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Give your turkey a colorful makeover by stuffing it into bell peppers. Mix shredded turkey with cooked rice, black beans, corn, and your favorite seasonings, then pack the mixture into halved bell peppers.
Top with a sprinkle of cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly, for a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
11. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your leftover turkey into a shepherd’s pie that’s hearty and full of flavor. Combine shredded turkey with vegetables and gravy, and spread it into a baking dish before topping with creamy mashed potatoes.
Bake until the top is lightly browned and crispy, then scoop up a serving of warm, savory goodness that’s perfect for a cozy evening.
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