When it comes to leftover turkey, many of us are stuck in a rut. We either reheat it as is or turn it into sandwiches. But why not think outside the box (or plate) and get creative with that deliciously tender meat? Enter: shredded turkey recipes! With just a few simple steps, you can transform your leftovers into a diverse array of dishes perfect for any occasion.
From savory soups to sweet breakfast burritos, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering shredded turkey recipes to spice up your meal routine. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner solution, these ideas are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, get shredding, and discover a whole new world of flavors!
Shredded Turkey Tacos with Avocado Crema
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines tender shredded turkey with creamy avocado crema and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup avocado crema (see below)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced bell peppers
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
2. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded turkey onto a tortilla, followed by a dollop of avocado crema.
3. Top with cilantro, lime wedges, and any desired toppings.
4. Serve immediately.
Cook Time: 5 minutes
BBQ Shredded Turkey Sliders with Coleslaw
Elevate your backyard gatherings with these deliciously easy-to-make sliders that combine the rich flavors of slow-cooked turkey, tangy coleslaw, and sweet BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Place the turkey breast in the slow cooker and add 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce.
3. Cook for 6-8 hours or overnight, until the turkey is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Using two forks, shred the turkey into bite-sized pieces.
5. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
6. Assemble the sliders by placing some shredded turkey onto each bun, followed by a spoonful of coleslaw and a lettuce leaf.
7. Add tomato slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Shredded Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect way to repurpose leftover turkey from the holidays. With the added nutty flavor of wild rice, this comforting dish is sure to warm your belly and your heart.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey breast or thighs, shredded
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chicken broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the uncooked wild rice to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually about 40-45 minutes).
3. Stir in the shredded turkey, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Shredded Turkey Enchiladas with Green Chile Sauce
Elevate your enchilada game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Tender shredded turkey is wrapped in tortillas, smothered in a tangy green chile sauce, and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups green chile sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the shredded turkey and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable.
4. Assemble the enchiladas by spooning the turkey mixture onto a tortilla, rolling it up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining tortillas and turkey.
5. Pour the green chile sauce over the rolled enchiladas and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shredded Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform leftover turkey into a delicious and healthy meal with this simple recipe. This dish is perfect for using up shredded turkey, and the sweetness of the bell peppers pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked, shredded turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, rice, onion, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Cranberry Panini
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful panini, featuring tender shredded turkey, sweet cranberries, and creamy brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or similar)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup crumbled brie cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the shredded turkey, cranberries, and orange marmalade.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, in the panini press or grill.
5. Spoon the turkey-cranberry mixture on top of the bread.
6. Top with crumbled brie cheese and finish with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Shredded Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
This comforting casserole is a creative take on the traditional shepherd’s pie, featuring tender shredded turkey instead of beef. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked shredded turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the shredded turkey and cook until heated through.
3. Stir in the peas and carrots, flour, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Spinach Lasagna Rolls
A creative twist on the classic lasagna, these rolls are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded turkey breast
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine turkey, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Spread a thin layer of the turkey mixture onto each noodle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll up each noodle tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shredded Turkey Chili with Black Beans
A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. This Shredded Turkey Chili with Black Beans is a twist on the classic, featuring tender turkey breast and the added nutritional boost of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Shred the turkey breast into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large pot, cook the onion, garlic, and bell peppers over medium-high heat until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the shredded turkey, black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and comforting side dish that’s perfect for the holidays or a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of roasted sweet potatoes, savory turkey, and crispy onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup cooked, shredded turkey breast
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add caramelized onions and cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
4. Add shredded turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with onions. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet and toss to combine with turkey and onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Shredded Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Elevate your comfort food game with this scrumptious shredded turkey pot pie, topped with a buttery and flaky crust. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the turkey, mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, melted butter, and thyme. Stir until combined.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the turkey mixture.
4. Crimp the edges of the crust to seal. Cut a few slits in the top for steam release.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines tender turkey with nutty quinoa and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, cored and hollowed
– 1 cup cooked shredded turkey breast
– 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together turkey, quinoa, parsley, garlic, and paprika.
3. Stuff each tomato with the turkey-quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
This recipe combines tender shredded turkey with sautéed mushrooms and Arborio rice, all bound together by a rich and creamy risotto sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked and shredded turkey breast
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add the garlic, cooked turkey, and Arborio rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. If using white wine, add it after 3 cups of broth have been absorbed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Shredded Turkey Nachos with Spicy Queso
Elevate your snack game with this creative take on traditional nachos, featuring shredded turkey and spicy queso. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded cooked turkey
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup Spicy Queso (see below)
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Spicy Queso Recipe:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spread shredded turkey over the chips, leaving a small border.
4. Spoon Spicy Queso over the turkey, followed by diced tomatoes and cilantro.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
A comforting, satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This easy-to-make dish combines shredded turkey with cornbread, vegetables, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded cooked turkey
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup canned cream of chicken soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded turkey, cornbread mix, milk, melted butter, chopped onion, garlic, and corn kernels. Mix well.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spread cream of chicken soup evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Kale Caesar Wrap
A flavorful and healthy twist on the classic caesar wrap, featuring tender shredded turkey and crisp kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, chopped kale, Caesar dressing, lemon juice, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined.
3. Spoon the turkey-kale mixture onto one half of the tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top of the filling.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Place the wrap in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Brie Grilled Cheese
This recipe combines the creaminess of brie cheese, the savory flavor of shredded turkey, and the buttery crunch of grilled bread for a satisfying and delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread
– 1/4 cup shredded turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 1/4 cup brie cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 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 slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with shredded turkey, brie cheese, and thyme.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Pesto Flatbread Pizza
A flavorful twist on traditional pizza, this recipe combines the savory goodness of shredded turkey with the creamy richness of pesto on a crispy flatbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked or store-bought flatbread
– 1/2 cup shredded cooked turkey breast
– 3 tablespoons pesto
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with the shredded turkey breast, mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Shredded Turkey and White Bean Salad
This hearty salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, combining the flavors of shredded turkey, creamy white beans, and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked, shredded turkey breast
– 1 cup canned Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, white beans, mixed greens, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Shredded Turkey and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day with a delicious and filling breakfast burrito packed with shredded turkey, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick morning meal or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked shredded turkey
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, chopped cilantro, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Scramble in microwave-safe bowl for 30-45 seconds or until eggs are cooked through.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shredded turkey and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, cooked turkey, and shredded cheese. Add optional toppings if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 20 mouthwatering shredded turkey recipes! From tacos to sliders, soup to enchiladas, and even breakfast burritos, there’s something for every occasion. Discover creative twists on classic dishes like BBQ sliders, wild rice soup, and shepherd’s pie, or try new flavor combinations like cranberry paninis and mushroom risotto. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping holiday dish, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.