As the turkey is carved and the plates are cleared, many of us find ourselves facing a daunting question: what to do with all those delicious leftovers? Don’t let them go to waste! Instead, get creative and turn your leftover turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and more into new and exciting dishes that will make you grateful for the second helping. From savory main courses to sweet treats, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering ideas to help you repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers and start a new tradition.
Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Pot Pie
Transform your Thanksgiving turkey leftovers into a warm, comforting pot pie that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a snack to enjoy while watching the holiday game. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a great way to repurpose those extra turkey slices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked turkey, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine turkey, mixed vegetables, flour, and butter. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is lightly browned.
3. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch deep-dish pie dish. Fill with the turkey mixture and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Stuffing Waffles
Transform last night’s stuffing into a delicious breakfast treat with these waffles! Perfect for using up leftover bread and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover stuffing (cooled)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– Butter or oil for greasing the waffle iron
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cooled stuffing, egg, and milk to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Grease the waffle iron with butter or oil.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron.
6. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the edges are crispy and the centers are cooked through.
7. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on your waffle iron)
Turkey Cranberry Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this unique combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberries, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1/4 cup of sliced cooked turkey breast
– 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup of 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 turkey breast, cranberries, 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 golden brown.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Leftover Mashed Potato Pancakes
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy and delicious pancakes that are perfect for a quick breakfast, snack, or side dish. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the egg and melted butter to the potato mixture. Mix until smooth.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil or cooking spray in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the potato mixture into the oil.
5. Flatten each pancake slightly with a spatula and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the size of the pancakes)
Thanksgiving Leftover Shepherd’s Pie
Thanksgiving Leftover Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Transform your turkey day leftovers into a cozy, comforting casserole perfect for the chilly days after Thanksgiving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
– 1 cup leftover turkey (or chicken), diced
– 1/4 cup leftover green bean casserole topping
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, diced turkey (or chicken), and green bean casserole topping. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey and savory stuffing with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a perfect dish for a cozy family gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and peas and carrots.
3. Mix well until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with melted butter and shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Sauce Muffins
Cranberry Sauce Muffins Recipe
Start your day with a delicious and tangy treat that combines the flavors of sweet muffin tops and tart cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (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 the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until tops are golden brown.
7. Allow muffins to cool in tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup
Transform yesterday’s turkey dinner into a comforting and delicious soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked turkey
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz noodles (such as egg noodles or soba)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chicken broth, cooked turkey, noodles, and thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Hash with Turkey
This sweet potato hash recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of turkey, creating a delicious and filling breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of 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 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cooked turkey to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet and stir to combine with the turkey mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Thanksgiving Leftover Tacos
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious and innovative dish with these easy-to-make tacos. This recipe is perfect for using up that extra turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover turkey, shredded
– 1/2 cup leftover mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup leftover stuffing, crumbled
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 8-10 taco-sized corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, warm the turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing over medium heat.
2. Add cranberry sauce to the mixture and stir until combined.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning the turkey-stuffing-mashed potato mixture onto a tortilla, topping with shredded cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Turkey and Gravy Stuffed Biscuits
A twist on traditional biscuits, these savory treats are filled with the comforting flavors of turkey and gravy.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1/4 cup homemade or store-bought turkey gravy
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until dough forms.
5. Fold in diced turkey and gravy until well combined.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or glass.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Leftover Green Bean Casserole Frittata
Leftover Green Bean Casserole Frittata Recipe
A creative way to repurpose leftover green bean casserole, this frittata is a breakfast or brunch twist on the classic dish. It’s perfect for using up those extra veggies and making a delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover green bean casserole (cooled)
– 6 eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Add the cooled green bean casserole, shredded cheese, and a few grinds of pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9-inch springform pan or a non-stick skillet.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or cook on stovetop over medium-low heat, occasionally lifting edges with spatula, until eggs are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Remove from oven or stovetop; let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Kick off your fall season with a delicious and refreshing Pumpkin Pie Smoothie! This creamy blend combines the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the comfort of a smoothie, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup ice-cold milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pumpkin puree, banana, Greek yogurt, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
3. Add ice-cold milk and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into a glass and top with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas
A twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey and cranberries with melted cheese for a unique and delicious snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey, cranberries, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the turkey-cranberry mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Sprinkle 1/2 cup shredded cheese on top of the filling.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes per quesadilla
Stuffing Crusted Turkey Quiche
A twist on the classic quiche, this recipe adds a savory stuffing crust to elevate your brunch game.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 1 cup turkey stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Press the turkey stuffing onto the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Top the stuffing with mixed greens, cheddar cheese, diced turkey, and parsley.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the filling.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the quiche is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Panini
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious panini sandwich with the sweetness of cranberries and creaminess of brie cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 2 oz cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 slice of brie cheese
– Lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread a layer of cranberry sauce on one slice of bread, followed by the shredded turkey breast, Dijon mustard, and brie cheese.
3. Top with lettuce leaves and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the other slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
5. Cook in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Thanksgiving Leftover Egg Rolls
Thanksgiving Leftover Egg Rolls: A Delicious Way to Repurpose Your Holiday Feast
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into crispy, savory egg rolls that will satisfy your cravings and reuse turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberries. This recipe is perfect for making the most of your post-holiday meal planning.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen egg roll wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 2 cups leftover Thanksgiving turkey, shredded
– 1 cup leftover stuffing, crumbled
– 1/2 cup leftover mashed potatoes
– 1/2 cup leftover green beans, chopped
– 1/4 cup leftover cranberries, chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded turkey, crumbled stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, and cranberries.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 1/4 cup of the leftover mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
4. Brush the edges of the wrapper with a little water, then fold the bottom half up over the filling, followed by the sides and finally the top half. Seal the egg roll by pressing the edges together.
5. Fry the egg rolls in batches until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total (including frying time)
Turkey and Stuffing Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and satisfying main dish by filling them with savory turkey and stuffing.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought stuffing mix (e.g., bread-based)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, followed by a spoonful of stuffing mix.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
Summary
Get creative with your Thanksgiving leftovers! From savory to sweet, these 18 recipes will breathe new life into your turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and more. Try making a Turkey Pot Pie, Stuffing Waffles, or Cranberry Grilled Cheese Sandwich. Or go sweet with Cranberry Sauce Muffins or Pumpkin Pie Smoothie. Whatever you choose, you’ll be saying “gobble” to hunger until the next feast!
