Thanksgiving is over, and if you’re like many, you might be staring at a fridge full of leftover turkey. I’ve been there, and trust me, the thought of another turkey sandwich can be less than thrilling. That’s why I put together this list of leftover Thanksgiving turkey recipes that will keep your meals fresh and exciting well into the holiday season.
This post is for anyone who loves to cook—or at least likes to eat! If you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone trying to make the most of those festive leftovers, you’ll find inspiration here. You want easy turkey dishes that don’t taste like the same meal over and over again. I get it; you want creativity without spending hours in the kitchen.
In this roundup, you’ll discover 12 creative turkey recipes that are perfect for quick weeknight meals or holiday gatherings. From a hearty Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers to a comforting Turkey Pot Pie, there’s something for everyone. These dishes not only bring variety to your table, but they also make excellent use of those holiday leftovers. You’ll be able to whip up healthy and satisfying meals that are both tasty and easy, making your post-Thanksgiving life a little brighter.
So roll up your sleeves and get ready to transform that leftover turkey into delicious meals that will have your family asking for seconds!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 unique and easy recipes to repurpose leftover Thanksgiving turkey, bringing new flavors to the table.
– Enjoy a mix of healthy and comforting options, including turkey salads, casseroles, and skillet dishes.
– Each recipe is designed for quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected holiday guests.
– Utilize ingredients you likely already have at home, making meal planning simpler and more cost-effective.
– Impress your family and friends with creative dishes that transform leftovers into something special and memorable.
1. Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Calories: 300 per serving
These stuffed peppers turn leftovers into a bright, protein-packed meal. The mix of quinoa, turkey, and beans makes each bite filling, while the peppers add a sweet crunch. It’s simple to assemble and great for meal prep. You can tweak spices to fit your family’s tastes, too.
In this version you’ll blend textures and flavors for a satisfying, weeknight-friendly dish. You’ll notice how the quinoa soaks up savory notes while the corn keeps things fresh. It’s a balanced plate with color and warmth.
Here is a complete recipe you can try tonight.
Ingredients:
4 large bell peppers (any color)
2 cups cooked quinoa
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, turkey, black beans, corn, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the mixture and place them upright in a baking dish.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the stuffed peppers.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
FAQs:
Can I use brown rice instead of quinoa? Yes. Use any grain you prefer.
Can I freeze the stuffed peppers after baking? Yes, they freeze well; cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container.
Can I add hotter spices? A pinch of chili powder or cayenne works well if you like heat.
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
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Amazon$23.982. Creamy Turkey and Spinach Casserole
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: 400 per serving
Comfort food shines in this creamy bake. Leftover turkey teams up with spinach and a silky sauce for a cozy meal. A crunchy breadcrumb top adds texture, making every forkful feel complete. It’s soothing, hearty, and easy to put together after a busy day.
Write this dish into your weekly rotation and you’ll always have a satisfying dinner ready. The spinach folds in gently, giving a pop of color and a healthful nudge. The casserole stays moist, thanks to the creamy base, yet remains light enough to serve with a simple salad.
Now you have a dependable crowd-pleaser with depth of flavor, not fuss. Here is the complete recipe you can use.
Ingredients:
3 cups shredded leftover turkey
2 cups fresh spinach
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix turkey, spinach, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
3. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
4. Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Bake for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
FAQs:
Can I add garlic powder for extra flavor? Yes.
Can this casserole be frozen before baking? Yes, freeze before baking and cook a bit longer.
Any side dish suggestions? A light green salad or crusty bread pairs well.
Creamy Turkey and Spinach Casserole
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Amazon$24.993. Turkey Taco Salad
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: 250 per serving
Make a fresh, zesty bowl with a Mexican twist. Leftover turkey wakes up in a salad that’s bright with tomatoes, avocado, and corn. It’s quick, crunchy, and light enough for a busy afternoon. You can prep components ahead, then toss when you’re ready to eat.
The beauty is in the contrast between leafy greens and hearty turkey. You get crisp textures, warm spices, and a lot of color on the plate. This dish travels well, too, in a grab-and-go lunch.
You’ll get a straightforward recipe that fits a weeknight plan. Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
4 cups mixed greens
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup corn
1 diced avocado
1/2 cup shredded cheese
1/4 cup salsa
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, turkey, tomatoes, corn, and avocado.
2. Drizzle with salsa and toss gently to combine.
3. Top with cheese before serving.
FAQs:
Can I swap in black beans for extra protein? Yes.
Should I serve with tortilla chips? Optional for crunch.
Can this be made ahead? Yes, keep components cooled and assemble before eating.
Turkey Taco Salad
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Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 180 per serving
Warm up with a nourishing bowl that uses up turkey and pantry veggies. This soup is flexible, letting you swap in what you have on hand. It stays hearty without feeling heavy, and you can freeze portions for busy days.
Soup lovers appreciate how easy it is to tailor the mix. The base is simple, but the result is comforting and satisfying. It’s a perfect kitchen stretch on chilly evenings.
Ready for a cozy, practical recipe? Here is the complete version you can cook tonight.
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 onion, chopped
3 carrots, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 cup green beans
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
2. Add broth, turkey, tomatoes, green beans, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Serve warm with crusty bread.
FAQs:
Can I add barley or barley-like grains? Yes.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, cool and freeze for future meals.
Turkey Vegetable Soup
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Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 350 per serving
One pan, big flavor. This skillet pairs sweet potatoes with turkey for a balanced bite that’s easy to clean up. The dish moves fast, making it ideal for weeknights. It’s wholesome, filling, and kid friendly, too.
As you cook, you’ll notice the sweet potato sweetness mellowing the savory turkey. The paprika gives a warm glow without overpowering the dish. It’s a simple, dependable option when time is tight.
Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups diced sweet potatoes
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sweet potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until tender.
4. Stir in turkey, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until heated through.
5. Serve warm.
FAQs:
Can I add spinach or kale at the end? Yes.
What other spices work well? Try a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika.
Turkey & Sweet Potato Skillet
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Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 400 per serving
Turn leftovers into a fragrant curry that coats every bite. The coconut milk brings a creamy texture, while curry powder adds warmth. This dish comes together fast, making it perfect for busy nights. Serve it over rice to soak up the tasty sauce.
Each spoonful feels comforting yet bright, thanks to the gentle sweetness of coconut and the savory turkey. It’s a simple way to spice up ordinary leftovers without extra work.
Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 onion, chopped
2 cups coconut milk
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 cup peas
Salt and pepper to taste
Rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, sauté onion in a little oil until translucent.
2. Stir in turkey and curry powder, cooking for 2 minutes.
3. Add coconut milk and peas; simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Serve over cooked rice.
FAQs:
Can I adjust spice? Add chili flakes if you like heat.
Pair with naan for a fuller meal.
Turkey Curry with Rice
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7. Turkey Pot Pie
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Calories: 380 per serving
Homemade comfort in a pie. Leftover turkey becomes a creamy filling tucked under a golden crust. The result is warm, savory, and satisfying. It’s a perfect weekend treat that still feels doable on a busy night.
With a flaky crust and a rich interior, this pot pie hits all the right notes. It’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and a splash of herbs.
Ready to bake? Here is the complete recipe you can use.
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup milk
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine turkey, vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour mixture into a pie dish and cover with pie crust, sealing the edges.
4. Cut slits in the top crust to vent.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until crust is golden brown.
FAQs:
How to keep crust from getting soggy? Bake on a sheet, vent thoroughly, and avoid extra liquid.
Can I use mini pie crusts for individual portions? Yes.
Turkey Pot Pie
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Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 500 per serving
Satisfying and creamy, this pasta brings fall flavors to life. Leftover turkey teams with fettuccine in a rich Alfredo sauce. The dish comes together fast, so you can have a cozy dinner without spending hours at the stove.
Think of it as a weeknight winner that still feels indulgent. A quick splash of herbs or a handful of vegetables can brighten the plate without slowing you down.
Ready for a comforting favorite? Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups fettuccine pasta
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain.
2. In a pan, heat heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
3. Add turkey, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Toss in cooked fettuccine and mix until coated.
5. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
FAQs:
Can I add broccoli or peas? Yes.
Can I swap in half-and-half for lighter cream? Yes.
Turkey Alfredo Pasta
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9. Turkey Fried Rice
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 300 per serving
Turn leftovers into a tasty, fast meal with this fried rice. It’s flexible, letting you use up any veggie bits you have in the fridge. The combination of turkey, eggs, and soy sauce makes a savory classic that comes together in minutes.
It’s a great option for lunch or an easy dinner when you’re short on time. The recipe teaches you how to layer flavors quickly and clean up fast.
Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 eggs, beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add vegetables and sauté until tender.
3. Push veggies to one side, pour in beaten eggs, and scramble.
4. Stir in rice, turkey, and soy sauce; mix until heated through.
5. Garnish with green onions before serving.
FAQs:
What rice is best? Day-old rice works best.
Can I add extra protein? Yes, add shrimp or chicken if you like.
Turkey Fried Rice
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Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Calories: 250 per serving
Fresh, quick, and satisfying. These wraps take the best of a Caesar salad and roll it into a hands-on lunch or light dinner. They’re handy for busy days when you want real flavor without fuss.
Each bite blends crunchy romaine, turkey, and parmesan with a creamy tang from the dressing. You get a portable meal that still feels special.
Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
4 large tortillas
1/2 cup Caesar dressing
2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortillas flat and spread Caesar dressing over each.
2. Add turkey, lettuce, and sprinkle with Parmesan.
3. Roll the wrap tightly and slice in half.
4. Serve immediately.
FAQs:
Can I add cherry tomatoes for color? Yes.
Can I make these ahead? Yes, wrap tightly and store in the fridge.
Turkey Caesar Wraps
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11. Turkey Fajitas
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories: 320 per serving
Bright peppers, warm spices, and juicy turkey make a lively dinner. These fajitas come together quickly and invite everyone to customize their toppings. They’re a festive option that fits a midweek plan or a weekend crowd.
Because you cook the ingredients in a single skillet, you save time and cleanup. The sizzling aroma signals dinner is nearly ready.
Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups shredded leftover turkey
1 onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
2 tablespoons fajita seasoning
Tortillas for serving
Toppings: salsa, cheese, sour cream, avocado
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper until soft.
2. Add turkey and fajita seasoning, cooking until heated through.
3. Serve with warm tortillas and toppings of your choice.
FAQs:
Can I grill the veggies first? Yes.
Pair with Mexican rice for a complete meal.
Turkey Fajitas
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Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: 300 per serving
End your leftovers with a flexible hash that feels brunchy. This dish blends diced turkey with potatoes and peppers for a hearty start to the day or a satisfying dinner. It’s forgiving and easy to adapt with whatever you have in the fridge.
You’ll discover how to map textures, seasonings, and timing so every bite lands just right. It’s a forgiving recipe that rewards experimentation.
Here is the complete recipe you can try.
Ingredients:
2 cups diced leftover turkey
2 cups diced potatoes
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
4 eggs (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add potatoes and cook until golden brown.
3. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until soft.
4. Stir in turkey, salt, and pepper; heat through.
5. If using, crack eggs on top and cover until cooked to your liking.
FAQs:
Can I add leftover veggies? Yes, mix in what you have.
Best served with hot sauce for extra kick.
Turkey Hash
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There you have it! Twelve delectable leftover Thanksgiving turkey recipes that are sure to inspire your holiday meals and help you make the most out of your leftovers. Each recipe is simple, healthy, and full of flavor, proving that your Thanksgiving turkey can shine again in new culinary creations.
Next time you find yourself with an abundance of turkey, don’t hesitate to whip up one of these dishes. They are perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy delightful meals throughout the holidays and beyond!
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