Got some leftover turkey and not sure what to do with it? No worries! Here’s a collection of over 43 + fresh and tasty ideas to turn that holiday bird into delicious meals, snacks, and more. From comforting soups to creative sandwiches, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy your leftovers without getting bored.
Turkey Fried Rice
Turkey fried rice is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The image showcases a vibrant plate of fried rice topped with a perfectly fried egg, making it look both inviting and delicious.
To make this dish, start with cooked rice and diced turkey. Sauté some vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and green onions in a pan. Add the rice and turkey, then season with soy sauce and sesame oil for that extra kick. Top it off with a fried egg for a satisfying meal.
This dish is not only a great way to clear out your fridge but also a fun way to enjoy a classic favorite. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Enjoy your turkey fried rice as a hearty lunch or a quick dinner!
Turkey Salad with Avocado
This turkey salad with avocado is a fresh and healthy way to use up leftover turkey. The combination of creamy avocado and tender turkey creates a satisfying meal. Bright cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and flavor, while a bed of leafy greens brings crunch and nutrition.
To make this salad, start by shredding your leftover turkey. Then, chop up ripe avocados and halved cherry tomatoes. Toss everything together with your favorite greens, like arugula or spinach. A simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice can enhance the flavors.
This dish is versatile. You can add nuts for extra crunch or some cheese for richness. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy days.
Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry
Turkey pot pie is a cozy dish that brings warmth to any meal. The golden puff pastry on top is flaky and inviting, making it hard to resist. This dish is perfect for using up leftover turkey, transforming it into something new and delicious.
To make this pot pie, start with your leftover turkey, diced into bite-sized pieces. Combine it with vegetables like carrots, peas, and celery for a hearty filling. A creamy sauce made from chicken broth and a touch of cream adds richness. Pour this mixture into a baking dish and cover it with puff pastry. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
This dish is not just about taste; it’s also about comfort. The aroma of the baking pie fills the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together leftover turkey and pasta in a creamy sauce. This casserole is perfect for using up those holiday leftovers while creating something new and delicious.
The image shows a golden-brown topping, likely made from breadcrumbs, adding a nice crunch to the creamy pasta underneath. The pasta is coated in a rich sauce, making it look warm and inviting.
To make this dish, you’ll need cooked turkey, pasta, a creamy sauce (often made with cream of mushroom soup), cheese, and some seasonings. Start by cooking your pasta until al dente, then mix it with the turkey and sauce. Pour it into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden.
This casserole is not just tasty; it’s also a great way to feed a crowd. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your leftovers in a whole new way!
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Turkey and wild rice soup is a cozy dish that makes great use of leftover turkey. The warm broth, tender turkey pieces, and hearty wild rice create a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly days.
This soup is simple to make. Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a pot until they soften. Add garlic for flavor, then pour in chicken broth. Toss in your leftover turkey and wild rice, letting everything simmer until the rice is cooked through.
Season with herbs like thyme and parsley for an extra touch. A splash of cream can make it even richer, but it’s delicious as is. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
This recipe not only reduces waste but also brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Enjoy a bowl of this soup and savor the flavors of Thanksgiving all over again!
Turkey and Cranberry Quesadilla
Turkey and cranberry quesadillas are a fun way to use up leftover turkey. They combine the savory taste of turkey with the sweet tang of cranberry sauce. This dish is not only quick to make but also packed with flavor.
To whip up these quesadillas, you’ll need some tortillas, shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. Simply layer the ingredients on a tortilla, fold it, and cook until crispy. Serve with salsa or guacamole for an extra kick!
This recipe is perfect for a cozy meal or a casual gathering. Everyone will love the unique twist on traditional quesadillas. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy those Thanksgiving leftovers!
Turkey Chili with Beans
Turkey chili with beans is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. This dish is hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor. The image shows a steaming bowl of chili, topped with cheese and fresh herbs, alongside some delicious cornbread. It’s a perfect meal for chilly days or when you need something filling.
To make this chili, you’ll need ingredients like cooked turkey, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices such as chili powder and cumin. Start by sautéing the vegetables, then add the turkey and beans. Let it simmer to blend the flavors. Top with cheese and serve with cornbread for a delightful meal.
This recipe is not just easy, but it also allows for creativity. You can add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Enjoying turkey chili is a great way to make the most of your leftovers!
Barbecue Turkey Sliders
These barbecue turkey sliders are a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. They’re simple to make and packed with flavor. Just imagine tender turkey smothered in barbecue sauce, topped with crunchy coleslaw, all nestled in a soft slider bun.
Start with shredded turkey and mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce. Heat it up until it’s warm and gooey. While that’s cooking, prepare some coleslaw for that perfect crunch. You can use store-bought or whip up a quick batch with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing.
Once everything is ready, assemble your sliders. Place a generous scoop of the barbecue turkey on the bun, add a spoonful of coleslaw, and finish it off with a pickle slice for an extra zing. Secure it all with a toothpick if you like. Serve these sliders at your next gathering or enjoy them as a quick weeknight meal.
Turkey Caesar Wrap
The Turkey Caesar Wrap is a delightful way to use leftover turkey. It combines fresh ingredients with a creamy dressing, making it a satisfying meal. The wrap features tender turkey, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all rolled up in a soft tortilla.
To make this wrap, start with a tortilla. Spread a layer of Caesar dressing on it. Next, add slices of turkey, some romaine lettuce, and diced tomatoes. You can even sprinkle some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Roll it up tightly and slice it in half for easy eating.
This wrap is perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. It’s light yet filling, and you can customize it with your favorite veggies or add some croutons for crunch. Enjoy this tasty twist on a classic Caesar salad!
Turkey Enchiladas with Green Sauce
Turkey enchiladas with green sauce are a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The vibrant green sauce adds a fresh kick, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Start by shredding your leftover turkey. You can mix it with some cheese, black beans, or even veggies for added flavor. Next, roll the turkey mixture in tortillas. Place them in a baking dish and cover with green sauce.
For the sauce, you can use store-bought or whip up a quick homemade version using tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapeños. Pour the sauce over the enchiladas and sprinkle with more cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with a side of rice or a simple salad. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun gathering with friends!
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Peppers
Turkey and spinach stuffed peppers are a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. These colorful peppers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and nutrients.
Start with bell peppers in vibrant colors like red, yellow, and green. Cut the tops off and remove the seeds. For the filling, mix shredded turkey with fresh spinach, some cheese, and your favorite seasonings. This combination creates a hearty and satisfying meal.
Once the peppers are filled, bake them until they are tender and the cheese is melted. The result is a delicious dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Turkey and sweet potato hash is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey. This dish combines tender turkey pieces with sweet potatoes, creating a hearty meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
The image shows a vibrant skillet filled with diced sweet potatoes, turkey, and a perfectly cooked egg on top. The bright colors make it visually appealing and inviting. Fresh herbs like parsley add a nice touch of green, enhancing the overall look.
To make this dish, start by sautéing diced sweet potatoes until they are soft. Then, add in your leftover turkey, along with any spices you like. Finish it off with a fried egg on top for added protein and richness. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Turkey Curry with Coconut Milk
Turkey curry with coconut milk is a delicious way to use up leftover turkey. This dish is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. The coconut milk adds a rich texture, making it a perfect match for tender turkey pieces.
To make this dish, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pan. Add your leftover turkey, along with spices like curry powder and cumin. Pour in the coconut milk and let it simmer until everything is heated through. Serve it over rice for a satisfying meal.
Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. This recipe is not only easy but also a great way to enjoy your holiday leftovers in a new and exciting way!
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Leftover turkey can shine in a quick and colorful stir-fry. This dish is a fantastic way to use up those extra turkey pieces while adding a variety of vegetables.
Start with your favorite veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas. Chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Heat some oil in a skillet, toss in the veggies, and stir-fry until they’re tender yet crisp.
Next, add the leftover turkey, cut into chunks. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. A splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce can bring it all together. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
This stir-fry is not just quick; it’s also versatile. Feel free to mix in whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s a great way to clean out the fridge while enjoying a delicious meal!
Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Turkey and mushroom risotto is a cozy dish that brings comfort to any meal. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover turkey while enjoying a creamy, hearty meal. The combination of tender turkey and earthy mushrooms creates a delightful flavor profile.
To make this risotto, start with arborio rice, which gives that creamy texture. Sauté onions and garlic in a pan, then add the rice and toast it slightly. Gradually stir in chicken broth, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid. Once the rice is nearly cooked, fold in shredded turkey and sautéed mushrooms.
Finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. This dish is not just filling; it’s also a great way to repurpose leftovers into something new and delicious!
