The day after Thanksgiving is a bittersweet moment – on one hand, you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor (or should we say, the turkey?) from the previous day’s feast. On the other hand, you’re left with a fridge full of leftovers that can feel overwhelming. But fear not! We’ve got 20 creative and delicious recipes to help you use up those leftovers in a whole new way. From savory dishes like Turkey Pot Pie and Stuffing Waffles with Gravy, to sweet treats like Cranberry Sauce Pancakes and Pumpkin Spice French Toast, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch, or dinner inspiration (or even dessert!), these recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative with those leftovers, and make this Thanksgiving season one to remember.
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Pot Pie
Revive your Thanksgiving feast with this creative and comforting recipe that transforms leftover turkey into a delicious pot pie.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon 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, combine turkey, mixed vegetables, flour, melted butter, heavy cream, and thyme. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill the pie crust with the turkey mixture and top with another pie crust or a crumbly topping (optional).
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Pancakes
Start your day with a sweet and tangy twist on traditional pancakes, infused with the flavors of cranberry sauce. These pancakes are perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce, well-stirred
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in the cranberry sauce.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stuffing Waffles with Gravy
Take your favorite stuffing recipe to the next level by turning it into crispy waffles and serving them with a rich, savory gravy. This unique twist is sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter, melted
– Gravy (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, combine stuffing, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cook waffles for 3-5 minutes or until crispy and golden.
6. Serve warm with gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Mashed Potato Croquettes
Transforming last night’s mashed potatoes into crispy, golden bites is easier than you think. These Leftover Mashed Potato Croquettes are the perfect solution for reducing food waste and satisfying your snack cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil or non-stick cooking spray for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil or non-stick cooking spray in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small balls of the potato mixture into the hot oil, about 1 tablespoon each.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of your croquettes)
Enjoy your crispy Leftover Mashed Potato Croquettes!
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
This casserole brings together the warmth of roasted turkey with the comfort of homemade stuffing, all in one convenient dish. Perfect for a cozy meal or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound leftover turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the diced turkey, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cubed bread and chicken broth. Let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
5. Combine the cooked turkey mixture with the bread mixture. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Pancakes with Cinnamon Butter
Sweet Potato Pancakes with Cinnamon Butter: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Breakfast
These sweet potato pancakes are a game-changer for breakfast or brunch, and the cinnamon butter takes them to the next level. Moist and flavorful, they’re perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy morning in.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– Butter, melted (for greasing the pan)
– Cinnamon butter (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add mashed sweet potatoes, egg, and milk to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
4. Grease the pan with melted butter and drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cinnamon Butter:
– Softened butter (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix together and spread on top of pancakes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Turkey Quesadillas
Transform your leftover turkey into a mouthwatering quesadilla, perfect for a quick and easy meal or snack. This recipe combines the savory flavors of roasted turkey with melted cheese and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together turkey, onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add the turkey mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Green Bean Casserole Soup
This comforting soup is a creative twist on the classic green bean casserole recipe. With the addition of creamy ingredients and aromatic spices, this soup is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups green beans, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crispy fried onions (like the ones used in green bean casserole)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add green beans, chicken broth, heavy cream, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until green beans are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. If desired, sprinkle with crispy fried onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl
Start your day with a creamy and comforting bowl that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pumpkin puree
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg
– Toppings: granola, whipped cream, and chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, banana, almond milk, chia seeds, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
4. Top with your desired toppings, such as granola, whipped cream, and chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Turkey Cranberry Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this sweet and savory combination of sliced turkey, cranberry sauce, and melted cheddar.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 oz. sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with sliced turkey, cranberry sauce, and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook 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 toasted.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the comfort of stuffing. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an impressive party starter!
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (any variety, such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 cup stale white bread, cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped celery
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine bread, melted butter, onion, celery, sage, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the bread mixture, filling to the brim.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe is a creative way to transform leftover turkey into a satisfying and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a comforting and nutritious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and peas and carrots until tender.
3. Add the flour and chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
4. Stir in the leftover turkey and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the turkey mixture.
7. Dot the potatoes with butter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Muffins
Start your day with a burst of flavor by baking these moist and delicious cranberry sauce muffins. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack, these treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, cranberry sauce, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turkey and Gravy Poutine
A twist on the classic Canadian dish, this Turkey and Gravy Poutine combines savory turkey and rich gravy with crispy fries and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast or thighs, shredded
– 2 cups leftover turkey gravy (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Fry the potatoes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
3. Drain excess oil and set fries aside.
4. In a separate pan, warm the turkey gravy over medium heat.
5. Assemble the poutine by placing a layer of fries in a bowl, followed by shredded turkey, then drizzle with warmed gravy.
6. Sprinkle grated cheese on top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Bread Pudding
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Bread Pudding Recipe
Warm up with a cozy and sweet twist on traditional bread pudding! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with fluffy marshmallows for a delightful dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 loaf stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, bread cubes, sugar, and spices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in marshmallows.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Leftover Ham and Cheese Sliders
Transform leftover ham into a tasty and satisfying snack with these easy-to-make sliders. Perfect for a quick lunch or afternoon pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover diced ham
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter the cut side of each hamburger bun.
3. Place a spoonful of diced ham on each bun, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese and chopped onion.
4. Place the buns in the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey Noodle Soup with Leftover Herbs
Transform leftover turkey into a comforting and flavorful soup using herbs and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded or diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed noodles (e.g., egg noodles, macaroni)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shredded turkey, chicken broth, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
6. Add the mixed noodles and cook according to package instructions.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffing and Turkey Stuffed Peppers
A creative twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines savory turkey stuffing with sweet bell peppers for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stale bread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 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 peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add bread, chicken broth, and olive oil to the skillet; stir until absorbed.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Pumpkin Spice French Toast
Start your day off right with this seasonal twist on a breakfast classic. Moist pumpkin-infused bread, crispy and golden brown, is smothered in a warm cinnamon-spiced maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah or Brioche bread
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and melted butter.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices on the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Salad Wrap
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious and healthy wrap with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced leftover roasted turkey breast
– 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine turkey, cranberries, feta cheese (if using), olive oil, and honey. Mix well.
2. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon the turkey-cranberry mixture onto one half of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
3. Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your Thanksgiving leftovers! From savory to sweet, these 20 recipes will help you repurpose your turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and more. Try making a Turkey Pot Pie, Stuffing Waffles with Gravy, or Leftover Mashed Potato Croquettes. Or go sweet with Cranberry Sauce Pancakes, Sweet Potato Pancakes with Cinnamon Butter, or Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Bowl. Whatever your taste buds crave, we’ve got you covered with these delicious and innovative ideas for using up Thanksgiving leftovers.
