The holiday season is here, and whether it’s after a Thanksgiving feast or a Christmas dinner, one thing many families have in common is leftover turkey. After the big day, your fridge is likely packed with turkey you don’t want to waste. Instead of settling for the usual reheated meals, why not explore some creative leftover turkey recipes that will turn your leftovers into exciting, delicious dishes?
This blog post is here to inspire you with 15 creative and delicious ways to repurpose your holiday turkey.
The purpose is to help you turn those leftovers into meals that are quick, easy, and family-friendly, so you can save time in the kitchen while still serving dishes your loved ones will adore.
From sliders to soups, these leftover turkey recipes prove that leftovers can be just as exciting as the main event.
15 Irresistible Leftover Turkey Recipes
1
Turkey Sliders
Source
Mini turkey sliders are a quick and fun way to use leftover turkey. Layer slices of turkey with cheese, cranberry sauce, and a touch of mustard on dinner rolls. Brush the tops with garlic butter and bake until the rolls are warm and golden. This kid-approved leftover turkey recipe is perfect for lunch or an after-school snack.
2
Turkey Pizza
Source
Who doesn’t love pizza? Swap out traditional toppings for shredded turkey, mozzarella cheese, and your favorite veggies. Spread marinara or barbecue sauce on a pizza base, add turkey, and bake until bubbly. This is one of the best leftover turkey recipes for families who enjoy quick and versatile meals.
3
Turkey Tacos
Source
Taco night gets a Thanksgiving twist! Use shredded leftover turkey instead of beef or chicken. Season the turkey with taco spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder, then serve in soft tortillas with lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a finishing touch.
4
Turkey Mac & Cheese
Source
Upgrade your mac and cheese by mixing in shredded turkey. This creamy, cheesy dish is an excellent way to create a hearty dinner while using up leftovers. For added flavor, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake until golden. It’s a leftover turkey recipe that feels indulgent but is incredibly simple.
5
Turkey Quesadillas
Source
Transform leftover turkey into crispy quesadillas. Place shredded turkey, cheese, and a touch of cranberry sauce between two tortillas. Grill on a stovetop until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are golden brown. Serve with salsa or sour cream on the side for a delightful twist on a classic.
6
Turkey Pot Pie
Source
When it comes to leftover turkey recipes, turkey pot pie is a timeless favorite. Combine shredded turkey with a creamy vegetable filling, pour it into a pie crust, and top with puff pastry. Bake until the crust is flaky and golden for a comforting meal that feels brand new.
7
Turkey Nachos
Source
Make snack time exciting with turkey nachos. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with shredded turkey, melted cheese, black beans, and jalapeños. Bake until the cheese melts, then add sour cream, salsa, and guacamole. This is one of the easiest leftover turkey recipes that doubles as a meal or a snack.
8
Turkey Fried Rice
Source
For a quick and flavorful meal, try turkey fried rice. Sauté chopped turkey with leftover rice, scrambled eggs, soy sauce, and your choice of vegetables. This Asian-inspired dish is a great way to use leftover turkey and is ready in under 20 minutes.
9
Turkey Wraps
Source
Turkey wraps are a healthy and portable option. Layer turkey, lettuce, shredded carrots, and your favorite dressing in a tortilla. Roll it up tightly, slice it in half, and enjoy! These wraps are one of the best leftover turkey recipes for lunchboxes or light dinners.
10
Turkey Soup
Source
A steaming bowl of turkey soup is perfect for chilly days. Simmer shredded turkey with broth, leftover gravy, noodles, and vegetables like carrots and celery. This comforting dish is not only delicious but also one of the easiest ways to repurpose leftover turkey.
11
Turkey Croquettes
Source
Combine shredded turkey with mashed potatoes, form into balls, coat in breadcrumbs, and fry until crispy. These turkey croquettes are a fun and tasty way to transform leftovers into an appetizer or snack that your family will love.
12
Turkey Breakfast Burritos
Source
Start the day right with turkey breakfast burritos. Fill tortillas with scrambled eggs, cheese, and shredded turkey. Add salsa or hot sauce for a bit of spice, then roll them up. These burritos can be made ahead and frozen for a convenient breakfast option.
13
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Source
Shepherd’s pie is a cozy and filling meal that makes excellent use of leftovers. Layer shredded turkey, vegetables, and gravy in a baking dish, then top with mashed potatoes. Bake until the top is golden brown and serve this classic leftover turkey recipe with a side of salad.
14
Turkey Pasta Bake
Source
Combine leftover turkey with cooked pasta, marinara sauce, and shredded cheese in a casserole dish. Bake until bubbly and golden. This turkey pasta bake is a family-friendly option that’s simple to make and bursting with flavor.
15
Turkey Caesar Salad
Source
For a lighter option, toss turkey into a Caesar salad. Replace chicken with shredded turkey, add croutons, Parmesan, and a creamy dressing for a refreshing meal. This is one of the easiest leftover turkey recipes for those looking to keep things light and fresh.
With these 15 leftover turkey recipes, your holiday leftovers will never feel boring again. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, pizza, or comforting shepherd’s pie, there’s a recipe here for everyone. These dishes are easy to prepare, family-friendly, and so delicious your loved ones won’t even realize they’re eating leftovers. Try these ideas today and turn your Thanksgiving turkey into a week of irresistible meals!
Similar Posts
15 EASY AND DELICIOUS NEW YEAR’S EVE FOOD IDEAS
15 STUNNING NEW YEAR’S EVE CHARCUTERIE BOARD IDEAS TO RING IN THE YEAR WITH STYLE AND FLAVOR
20 EASY CHRISTMAS APPETIZERS TO START YOUR CELEBRATION
