The day after Thanksgiving – a time when many of us are left with a refrigerator full of leftover turkey. While it’s tempting to simply reheat the same old meal for days on end, there are so many more creative and delicious ways to use up that extra turkey! In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that will help you transform your leftovers into brand new meals. From comforting casseroles to flavorful sandwiches, we’ve got you covered with a variety of ideas to get your culinary creativity flowing. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a hearty dinner to please the whole family, these turkey leftover recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make this year’s leftovers shine!
Turkey and Cranberry Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory combination of turkey, cranberries, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 ounces sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 slices cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with turkey breast, cranberries, and honey.
5. Place one cheese slice on top of the filling.
6. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the cheese.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and creamy vegetables. With its rich flavor and comforting warmth, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onion)
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the turkey, vegetables, and thyme in a little oil until the turkey is browned and the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Warm up with a comforting Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. This classic recipe combines tender turkey, creamy vegetables, and flaky pastry crust for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, garlic, and paprika until the turkey is no longer pink. Add frozen vegetables and cook until thawed.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and melted butter. Gradually add to turkey mixture and stir until combined.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill the pastry with the turkey mixture and brush edges with beaten egg.
6. Fold the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush top with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Tetrazzini with Mushrooms
Elevate your holiday dinner game with this rich and satisfying Turkey Tetrazzini, featuring sautéed mushrooms and a velvety creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces fettuccine pasta, cooked and drained
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and cook until translucent, 2-3 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, whisking constantly. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked turkey, mushroom mixture, fettuccine pasta, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
Spicy Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas: A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the richness of turkey with the bold flavors of black beans and spicy peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, cilantro, and jalapeño to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in black beans and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning turkey mixture onto a tortilla, rolling it up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas and top with shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Cobb Salad with Avocado
This classic salad gets a creamy boost from the addition of avocado, making it perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner. With its combination of juicy turkey, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced turkey, and avocado.
2. Sprinkle the blue cheese and nuts over the top of the salad.
3. Drizzle with ranch dressing and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of turkey, stuffing, and savory gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought stuffing mix
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, stuffing mix, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle peas and carrots on top of the turkey mixture.
5. Drizzle with additional chicken broth if desired.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with a variety of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey (diced)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion (diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 green onions (chopped)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook until they are tender-crisp.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in 2 eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetables.
6. Add cooked turkey, cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A delicious and savory breakfast or brunch option that combines crispy turkey bacon with sweet and tender roasted sweet potatoes, all topped with a fried egg for added richness. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened.
4. Add crumbled turkey bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Fry eggs in a separate pan with a little oil until whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
6. To assemble, place roasted sweet potatoes on a plate, top with turkey and onion mixture, and finish with a fried egg.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Leftover Turkey Quesadillas
Turn leftover turkey into a tasty, cheesy quesadilla that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced leftover turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 large tortillas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: salsa, sour cream, or avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, onion, bell pepper, and cheese.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the turkey mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes per quesadilla
Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish combining the richness of turkey with the nuttiness of broccoli, all wrapped up in a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté turkey, broccoli, and garlic in a little oil until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and basil to the skillet. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the turkey-broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Dumplings Comfort Bowl
Warm up with this comforting bowl filled with tender turkey, fluffy dumplings, and savory vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 dumpling pieces (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the diced turkey, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until heated through.
6. Serve the turkey mixture over the dumplings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey and spinach with a deliciously cheesy filling.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil to the skillet. Stir until combined.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Chili with Cornbread Topping
This recipe combines tender turkey, flavorful spices, and nutritious beans in a deliciously rich chili, topped with a crispy cornbread crumble for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the chili:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, as needed
For the cornbread topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender.
3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and diced tomatoes.
4. Add kidney beans, salt, and pepper; adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Simmer the chili for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
6. Meanwhile, prepare cornbread topping by whisking dry ingredients in a bowl.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and egg.
8. Add wet to dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
9. Drop spoonfuls of cornbread mixture onto the chili; cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Brie Panini with Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your lunch game with this sweet and savory panini recipe, featuring tender turkey, creamy brie cheese, and a tangy cranberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Baguette work well)
– 2 oz. sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup brie cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay two slices of bread on a flat surface. Top each slice with a slice of turkey, a few pieces of brie cheese, and a spoonful of cranberry sauce.
3. Drizzle honey over the cranberry sauce for added sweetness.
4. Place the other two slices of bread on top to create a sandwich.
5. Cook the panini for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry recipe combines the flavors of turkey, colorful vegetables, and savory soy sauce for a nutritious and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return the turkey to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of savory turkey, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes. Serve it with crusty bread or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add turkey, onion, and garlic; cook until turkey is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add corn, potato, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Pesto Flatbread Pizza
Transform a humble flatbread into a flavorful pizza with the combination of savory turkey, creamy pesto, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
• 1 pre-made or homemade flatbread (10-12 inches)
• 2 oz sliced cooked turkey breast
• 2 tbsp store-bought or homemade pesto
• 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped bell peppers, onions, olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Top the pesto with sliced turkey breast and shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Add optional toppings of your choice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover turkey! This collection of 18 delicious recipes will help you reduce food waste and enjoy a culinary break from cooking. From classic comfort dishes like Turkey Pot Pie and Turkey Chili, to innovative twists like Turkey and Cranberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Spicy Turkey Enchiladas, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight meals or special occasion dishes, these recipes are sure to inspire your next culinary adventure.
