35 Savory Dishes with Leftover Turkey
Leftover turkey recipes give inventive ways to use leftover poultry after special occasions.
Turning turkey into new dishes helps reduce food waste and provides comforting meals beyond holidays.
You can make tasty sandwiches or hearty soups, with leftover turkey as the base for many creations.
Let's make the most of your kitchen leftovers with these delicious leftover turkey recipes.
35 Creative Ways to Upgrade Leftover Turkey
Leftover turkey can be reimagined into fresh, delicious meals. Soups, sandwiches, and casseroles give it new life after the holidays.
Turkey Pot Pie
Leftover turkey finds a delicious purpose in this pot pie.
Combining chopped turkey with frozen vegetables creates a hearty filling.
A creamy sauce binds the ingredients together, enhancing the flavors beautifully.
Using ready-made pie crusts saves time, while baking until golden brown adds an inviting touch.
For added convenience, condensed soup serves as an easy base for the sauce and shredded cheese elevates taste further.
This meal not only satisfies hunger but also helps clear out Thanksgiving leftovers effectively.
Leftover Turkey Chili
Using leftover turkey for chili creates a satisfying meal.
A large pot works well for sautéing onions, peppers, and garlic to kick off the process.
Chili powder and cumin add depth to the dish’s flavor profile.
Diced tomatoes and beans, such as kidney or black beans, bring heartiness to the mix when added along with turkey.
Simmering this mixture for about 30 minutes allows all the tastes to meld beautifully together.
Adding corn towards the end gives it a nice texture; serving hot with shredded cheese enhances enjoyment even more.
Turkey Shepherds Pie
Using leftover turkey after the holidays feels rewarding.
Diced turkey mixes beautifully with vegetables in a rich gravy, creating a delightful filling for this dish.
Creamy mashed potatoes top it off, forming a lovely golden crust during baking.
Frozen peas or any leftover veggies can add variety to the recipe.
Adding cheese to the mashed potato layer introduces an extra burst of flavor that elevates the meal further.
Families will surely appreciate this hearty pie, making it a perfect choice for dinner gatherings.
Turkey Quesadillas
Using leftover turkey in quesadillas creates a quick and delicious meal.
Preparing these takes only about 15 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
Begin by heating the turkey in a pan along with some salsa for added moisture and taste.
A hot skillet or griddle works well for cooking; place a tortilla on it, layer cheese, and then the warmed turkey mix before topping it with another tortilla.
Cook until both sides are golden brown to achieve that perfect crunch.
Feel free to switch up cheeses or toss in veggies like peppers for more flavor, pairing them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole enhances enjoyment even further.
Turkey Fried Rice
Leftover turkey finds a delicious purpose in turkey fried rice.
Preparing this dish takes around 30 minutes, making it quick and easy.
Start by heating oil in a large pan or wok, then add chopped onions until they become soft.
Frozen veggies and the leftover turkey come next; stir-fry everything for several minutes before adding cooked rice to the mix.
Soy sauce enhances flavor, while oyster sauce or rice vinegar can be added for an extra kick if desired.
Scrambling an egg into the pan completes this meal beautifully, with green onions sprinkled on top just before serving to add freshness and color.
Turkey Meatloaf
Using leftover turkey can lead to a delicious meal like turkey meatloaf.
This dish combines ground turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, and flavorful seasonings.
For added taste, sautéed onions and garlic work wonders.
Chopped veggies such as mushrooms or bell peppers can enhance the mixture even more.
After shaping it into a loaf on a baking sheet, brushing the top with ketchup adds a classic finish.
Baking at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes ensures it cooks thoroughly; just check that the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
Once ready, letting it rest for ten minutes before slicing makes serving easier alongside mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Turkey and Barley Soup
Leftover turkey finds a delicious use in a hearty barley soup.
A large pot filled with sautéed onions, carrots, and celery sets the base for this dish.
Minced garlic enhances the flavor before pouring in rich turkey broth and adding pearl barley.
Simmering for about 45 minutes allows the barley to become tender while stirring in shredded turkey meat adds heartiness to each bowl.
Seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or sage elevates taste; adding peas or mushrooms introduces extra nutrition as well.
Ideal on chilly days, this soup is both filling and easy to prepare using common ingredients from your kitchen.
Turkey Bolognese
Using leftover turkey for Turkey Bolognese creates a delicious meal.
This dish cooks in around 30 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days after the holidays.
Shredded turkey mixes beautifully with a rich tomato sauce, enhancing both taste and nutrition.
Adding any leftover vegetables can boost flavor even more.
Serving this hearty sauce over spaghetti or your preferred pasta shape makes dinner satisfying and enjoyable for everyone at the table.
A fresh twist on typical holiday leftovers will surely please family members looking for something different.
Turkey and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Using leftover turkey creates a delicious meal with turkey and cheese stuffed peppers.
Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F.
Halve the bell peppers and take out the seeds, then roast them on a baking sheet for about 15 minutes until they soften.
Combine chopped turkey with cooked rice, shredded cheese, and your chosen seasonings in a bowl.
Fill each roasted pepper half with this tasty mixture, adding extra cheese on top before baking for an additional 20-25 minutes until tender and bubbly.
For an added kick of flavor, diced tomatoes or salsa can enhance this dish beautifully.
Turkey Enchiladas
Using leftover turkey for enchiladas creates a delicious meal.
Shredding the turkey meat is the first step.
Mixing it with cheese, sour cream, and green chiles adds rich flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Warm corn tortillas help wrap all the tasty filling; dipping them in enchilada sauce enhances their taste before rolling them up and placing in a baking dish.
Pouring more sauce on top and sprinkling extra cheese makes everything even better as they bake until hot and bubbly, with melted cheese turning golden brown.
Customization allows for adding different sauces or toppings like green enchilada sauce or black olives to suit individual preferences.
Turkey Caesar Sandwiches
Using leftover turkey creates a delicious opportunity for tasty sandwiches.
Quick lunches or light dinners become easy with this simple recipe.
Toasting bread slices starts the process, followed by mixing Caesar dressing and shredded Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
Spreading this mixture on the bread comes next, then layering sliced turkey, crisp lettuce, and optional tomatoes to complete it all.
For a healthier twist, consider wraps instead of traditional bread or whip up an egg-free Caesar dressing for a lighter choice.
Croutons can add an extra crunch if desired while adjusting the dressing enhances personal taste preferences.
Turkey Alfredo Pasta
Using leftover turkey, a creamy sauce comes together quickly for a satisfying dish.
In just about 15 minutes, this recipe serves as an easy solution for busy weeknights.
Begin by boiling pasta according to the instructions on the package.
While it cooks, sauté soft onions in melted butter and add minced garlic briefly for flavor.
Next, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth to simmer before mixing in your turkey along with cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese until everything is warm and combined well.
For added taste, consider incorporating bacon, peas, or mushrooms; these ingredients enhance the dish’s richness while allowing flexibility based on what’s available at home.
Turkey and Corn Chowder
A wonderful option for chilly days is turkey and corn chowder, which uses leftover turkey effectively.
Start with a base of sautéed onions, celery, and carrots cooked in butter until soft.
Next comes the flour to form a roux; then broth and cream blend in smoothly.
Diced potatoes, corn, thyme, and garlic powder enhance the flavor as everything simmers together until the potatoes soften.
Afterward, leftover turkey joins in for a few more minutes of cooking time.
For an extra creamy touch before serving it up topped with crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley adds texture to each bowl.
Turkey Cobb Salad
A fresh and colorful meal can come from leftover turkey.
Crisp lettuce serves as the perfect base for this salad.
Diced turkey, hard-boiled eggs, crumbled bacon, and ripe avocado create delicious layers on top.
Chopped tomatoes, blue cheese, and green onions enhance the flavor even more.
Customization is simple; swap in any ingredients you have available for a personal touch.
Mixing mayonnaise with buttermilk and your favorite spices makes a tasty dressing that ties everything together nicely while offering a lighter option after Thanksgiving feasts.
Turkey and Broccoli Casserole
A wonderful option for using leftover turkey is a casserole that combines flavors and textures.
Start with cooked turkey, rice, steamed broccoli, and a creamy sauce made from cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk.
Spice it up with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the taste.
Once mixed in a large bowl, transfer the combination into a greased baking dish.
For added flavor and crunchiness on top, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese along with crispy fried onions before baking at 375°F for about 35 minutes until everything is hot and bubbly.
This dish offers an easy meal solution that families will appreciate after holiday feasts.
Turkey Club Sandwich
Leftover turkey finds a delicious purpose in a turkey club sandwich.
Three slices of toasted bread serve as the base.
Mayonnaise spreads across each slice, creating a creamy foundation.
On the bottom slice, layers of turkey, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato come together beautifully.
A middle layer follows with more ingredients before topping it off with the final piece of bread.
After cutting diagonally into quarters and securing them with toothpicks, this classic dish is ready to enjoy at lunch or dinner while reducing food waste from festive meals.
Adding cheese or avocado can elevate flavors even further; using different types of bread like sourdough adds an exciting twist too!
Turkey Salad
Leftover turkey finds new life in a delicious salad.
This dish comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients.
Chopped turkey combines well with mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice for a creamy base.
Crunchy diced celery and green onions add texture, while dried cranberries and chopped pecans bring extra flavor.
A sprinkle of salt, pepper, and fresh dill enhances the taste even more.
After chilling in the fridge for a bit, this salad serves wonderfully on its own or as filling for sandwiches.
Turkey and Pesto Panini
A warm, crispy sandwich awaits with a blend of leftover turkey and fresh ingredients.
Pesto spreads across slices of bread, infusing each bite with vibrant flavor.
Layers of turkey, cheese, like provolone or mozzarella, tomatoes, and creamy avocado create a mouthwatering mix.
Grilling transforms the sandwich into a golden delight as the cheese melts perfectly.
Quick preparation in about 15 minutes makes it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and delicious option for dinner comes from leftover turkey.
This dish takes about 20-30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings.
Colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli add both taste and nutrients.
Start by chopping the turkey into small pieces before heating oil in a pan to stir-fry the veggies until they are tender-crisp.
Next, combine the turkey with a tasty sauce made of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to enhance flavors.
For a satisfying meal, serve this stir-fry over rice or noodles; it provides plenty of protein along with essential vitamins.
Turkey Tetrazzini
Turkey Tetrazzini serves as a delicious option for leftover turkey.
Combining tender pieces of turkey with pasta, this comforting casserole features a creamy sauce enriched with mushrooms and cheese.
A crunchy layer of Parmesan on top adds an irresistible texture.
This dish suits large gatherings and satisfies hungry appetites easily.
Customization allows for adding various vegetables or swapping in rotisserie chicken when desired, making it adaptable for any palate.
Quick preparation makes Turkey Tetrazzini ideal during hectic weeknights, ensuring everyone enjoys a hearty meal together.
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty bowl of turkey and wild rice soup warms the soul, especially on chilly days after the holidays.
Leftover turkey finds a new purpose in this dish, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Start by softening onions, celery, and carrots in butter for a savory base.
Flour combines with these vegetables to create a roux before slowly whisking in flavorful turkey broth.
Wild rice simmers until tender while shredded turkey adds substance to the mix.
Seasonings like thyme along with salt and pepper elevate every spoonful; finishing with cream adds an indulgent touch that makes each bite comforting.
Turkey and Cranberry BBQ Pizza
A fun way to use leftover turkey is by turning it into pizza.
Begin with a mix of cranberry and BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy base, then spread this flavorful blend over your pizza dough.
Shredded turkey adds heartiness, while red onions and Brussels sprout leaves contribute crunch and zest.
Choose any cheese you like; mozzarella is a classic choice but trying something different can be exciting too.
Bake the creation in a hot oven until the crust becomes crispy, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly.
This inventive dish brings together festive flavors in an enjoyable manner after Thanksgiving or Christmas feasts.
Turkey and Avocado Wrap
Leftover turkey finds a delicious purpose in turkey and avocado wraps.
Quick preparation makes them an excellent choice for lunch.
A large tortilla serves as the base, where creamy mashed avocado gets spread evenly.
Sliced turkey joins crisp lettuce and juicy tomato to create a satisfying mix.
For added taste, consider including bacon or pesto, along with fresh veggies like cucumber or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Rolling it tightly before slicing delivers a perfect grab-and-go meal suitable for work or school lunches while allowing customization based on personal preferences with different spreads and cheeses.
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Using leftover turkey can lead to a delicious dish.
Turkey and sweet potato hash works well for breakfast or brunch.
Start with diced sweet potatoes, cooking them in a skillet until they become tender.
Adding chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic enhances the flavor greatly.
Small pieces of turkey mix in nicely alongside herbs like sage and thyme with salt and pepper for seasoning.
For an appealing crunch, placing the skillet in a hot oven briefly before serving creates that perfect texture everyone loves.
Turkey Chimichangas
Crispy and flavorful, turkey chimichangas make leftover turkey exciting.
Tortillas filled with shredded turkey, beans, and cheese create a satisfying meal.
Rolling them tightly before frying gives a golden-brown finish.
Baking offers a lighter alternative for those seeking healthier choices.
Topping with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream adds extra zing to each bite.
This Mexican-inspired dish turns ordinary leftovers into something fun that the whole family will appreciate.
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
Lasagna filled with turkey and spinach makes a delightful meal, especially for using leftover turkey.
Gather ingredients like lasagna noodles, cooked turkey, spinach, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella.
Begin by preparing the noodles as directed on the package.
Combine chopped turkey with tomato sauce in one bowl while mixing thawed spinach and ricotta cheese in another.
Layer these components into a baking dish starting with sauce followed by noodles, then the turkey mixture topped with the spinach-ricotta mix and mozzarella; repeat this process 2-3 times for extra flavor.
Bake at 350°F for around 30-40 minutes until everything is nicely heated through; allow it to cool slightly before serving at dinner time to family or friends.
Turkey Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Low-carb and packed with vegetables, turkey stuffed zucchini boats offer a great way to use leftover turkey.
Start by slicing zucchini in half and scooping out the insides.
Combine chopped turkey with onions, garlic, and your choice of spices for flavor.
Adding tomato sauce helps keep the mixture moist before spooning it into the hollowed-out zucchini halves.
Baking at 400°F for around 20 minutes finishes off this dish beautifully; cheese can melt on top during the last few minutes if desired.
Feel free to personalize this recipe with favorite spices or extra ingredients for added taste.
Turkey and Quinoa Soup
A filling and nutritious soup warms up chilly days.
Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this dish, making it an easy option when trying to reduce waste.
Sautéing onions, celery, and carrots in a large pot creates a flavorful base for the soup.
Garlic enhances the aroma as it cooks alongside these vegetables.
Quinoa adds texture while simmering with turkey and broth until tender; this usually takes about 15-20 minutes.
For added zest, include herbs such as parsley or thyme along with colorful vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Leftover turkey finds a delicious new life in turkey and mushroom risotto.
Essential ingredients include mushrooms, rice, onion, garlic, stock, and of course, the leftover turkey.
Begin with softening onions in a pan; then add mushrooms and garlic until they release their juices.
Next comes the rice for a quick cook before gradually mixing in warm stock while stirring frequently for about 20 minutes.
The result is creamy rice that absorbs all the flavors beautifully as it cooks to tenderness.
Finally, incorporate your leftover turkey along with Parmesan cheese to enhance the dish’s richness before serving it warm and flavorful.
Turkey and Spinach Quiche
A tasty option for using leftover turkey is turkey and spinach quiche.
This dish works well for breakfast or lunch and keeps nicely in the fridge for several days.
Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F.
In a pie shell, place layers of chopped turkey, cooked spinach, and cheese.
Combine eggs, milk, salt, and pepper in a bowl before pouring this mixture over the layered ingredients in the shell.
Baking takes 25-35 minutes; it's ready when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Hot or cold servings bring satisfaction with every bite.
Turkey Tacos
Using leftover Thanksgiving turkey makes for a delicious meal.
Warm taco shells hold the seasoned turkey perfectly.
Shredded meat, spiced with cumin and chili powder, adds a burst of flavor to each bite.
For added zest, diced jalapeños or a squeeze of lime juice enhance the taste further while cooking in oil until crispy.
Toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream create an enjoyable finish to this dish.
This simple recipe turns leftovers into something exciting and satisfying that everyone will love.
Turkey Frittata
Leftover holiday turkey finds new purpose in a turkey frittata, offering a refreshing break from the usual turkey sandwiches.
This dish comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or lunch.
Eggs and cheese mingle with chunks of turkey in a skillet for a delightful meal.
Extra veggies from Thanksgiving can easily be added to enhance flavors and nutrition.
Different types of cheese, such as goat or cheddar, bring unique tastes to the mix.
Chopped bread or dinner rolls can provide an enjoyable texture that completes this satisfying recipe.
Turkey Burritos
Using leftover turkey can lead to delicious burritos.
Begin by warming flour tortillas in the oven.
Combine shredded turkey with beans, diced tomatoes, green chiles, and spices such as chili powder and cumin in a pan until heated through.
A layer of mashed potatoes works well on each tortilla before adding the warm turkey mixture on top.
Toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado add extra flavor to every bite.
Roll up the tortillas tightly and enjoy them right away or heat briefly in the microwave for a quick meal that satisfies hunger perfectly.
Turkey and Black Bean Chili
Using leftover turkey for a black bean chili brings new life to your meal.
Start by heating oil in a large pot and cooking chopped onions and peppers until they become soft.
Garlic along with spices such as chili powder and cumin adds depth to the flavor.
Next, incorporate the shredded turkey, breaking it apart as it warms up.
Diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and black beans create a hearty base; adding stock or water adjusts the thickness to your liking.
Allowing the chili to simmer for 30-45 minutes enhances its richness before serving hot with toppings like shredded cheese and fresh cilantro for an extra kick of flavor.
Turkey and Kale Stuffed Bell Peppers
Nutritious and easy to prepare, stuffed bell peppers with turkey and kale make a great meal.
Start by cutting the bell peppers in half and removing their seeds.
Placing them on a baking sheet sets the stage for filling.
Cooking onions and garlic in a pan adds flavor before mixing in chopped leftover turkey, kale, quinoa or rice for added texture.
Season this mixture with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs before spooning it into the pepper halves.
Baking at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes ensures everything cooks perfectly; adding cheese during the last few minutes gives it an extra touch of flavor that many enjoy at dinner time.
Avoid These Common Errors
Small cooking mistakes can change the taste of your food. Fixing them is easy with a few simple steps. A little adjustment makes meals much better.
Proper Storage Tips
Turkey should not sit out at room temperature for more than two hours.
Bacteria can multiply rapidly, putting the meat at risk.
Storing leftovers properly helps maintain safety and quality.
Cut turkey into smaller pieces and place them in airtight containers before refrigerating within two hours of cooking.
The coldest part of your fridge is the best spot for turkey, typically found in the back.
Use refrigerated turkey within three to four days or freeze it in heavy-duty freezer bags for up to six months, remembering to label containers with dates for easy tracking of freshness.
Avoid Overcooking
Reheating turkey requires attention to avoid dryness.
Keeping the meat moist is essential, so use low heat and cover it with foil or a lid while in the oven.
This method traps steam, helping maintain tenderness.
Adding broth or gravy before reheating enhances both flavor and moisture content.
Achieving an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is important to ensure safety by killing any bacteria present; using a food thermometer will help with this task.
After reheating, allowing the turkey to rest for a few minutes ensures even heat distribution throughout the meat.
Using Leftover Turkey Wisely
After a big holiday feast, leftover turkey often remains.
It can serve many purposes, such as adding protein to sandwiches, salads, soups, or casseroles.
Keeping it safe for later use is essential.
Refrigeration should happen within 2 hours of cooking; cutting the turkey into smaller pieces and placing them in airtight containers helps maintain freshness for 3-4 days in the fridge.
For extended enjoyment, freezing is an option; wrapping it tightly allows storage for up to 4 months without losing quality.
Reheating must ensure an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any harmful bacteria that may develop during storage.
Proper Leftover Turkey Storage
Properly storing leftover turkey ensures it remains safe and delicious.
Start by refrigerating the turkey within two hours of cooking, keeping your fridge at or below 40°F (4°C).
Smaller portions cool faster, so cutting large pieces helps with this process.
Use airtight containers or tightly wrap the turkey in foil to prevent dryness and contamination.
If you plan to keep it for more than a few days, freezing is a great option; frozen turkey lasts for two to six months when stored in freezer bags or suitable containers.
Labeling each container with the date makes tracking freshness easy while separating different parts simplifies future meals.
When reheating, ensure that every piece reaches 165°F (74°C) using a food thermometer for safety.