The holiday season has come to a close, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get creative with your leftover turkey. From comforting casseroles to innovative wraps, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipe ideas to help you use up every last morsel of that delicious bird. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy solution or something more elaborate, our collection has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to repurpose your leftover turkey into tasty meals that will satisfy your hunger and impress your family and friends. From classic comfort food to international twists, we’ve got the inspiration you need to take your turkey leftovers to the next level.
Stay tuned for a culinary adventure that’s sure to delight!
Leftover Turkey Pot Pie
Transform your leftover turkey into a comforting pot pie that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. This easy recipe uses store-bought puff pastry to make the process quick and stress-free.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine turkey, mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, milk, and egg. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture thickens.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon the turkey mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Brush top with beaten egg and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
A classic comfort food dish perfect for a stress-free holiday meal. This casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound leftover roasted turkey breast or thigh
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought stuffing (seasoned to taste)
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the turkey, stuffing, and mashed potatoes.
3. Add the chicken broth and mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Dot the top with butter.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and hot throughout.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Turkey Tetrazzini
Easy Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
Tetrazzini is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This easy turkey tetrazzini recipe is a twist on the traditional version, using leftover turkey and a creamy sauce to make a delicious casserole.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender.
3. Add diced turkey, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
6. Layer the casserole: sautéed turkey mixture, then cheese/breadcrumb mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with these savory and sweet quesadillas, featuring turkey breast, cranberries, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, salsa, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together diced turkey breast and cranberries.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with the turkey-cranberry mixture and half with shredded cheese.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted, flipping halfway.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve warm and top with optional toppings of your choice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food option, combining the flavors of turkey, rice, and vegetables in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced turkey, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add uncooked rice to the pot and stir well.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe puts a delicious spin on the traditional Shepherd’s Pie by using ground turkey instead of beef. The result is a flavorful and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top of the turkey mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Salad Wraps
A fresh and flavorful twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the savory goodness of turkey breast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 large flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
2. Add the sliced turkey breast and toss to coat.
3. In a separate bowl, combine diced avocado and mixed greens.
4. Assemble the wraps by spreading a layer of the turkey mixture onto each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of the avocado-mix.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roll up tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry dish that combines the protein of turkey with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the turkey from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and broccoli to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the turkey to the pan and stir in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cheese Sliders
These mini sandwiches are perfect for a quick lunch or snack. Soft buns filled with juicy turkey, melted cheese, and crispy lettuce make for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together ground turkey and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Add 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet or grill and cook turkey patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns by grilling or toasting in a toaster.
6. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked turkey patty on each bun, followed by shredded cheese, chopped lettuce, and a dollop of butter.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Gravy Stuffed Potatoes
A comforting twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey and savory gravy with fluffy spuds.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 cup cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought turkey gravy
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch around the skin.
4. In a bowl, combine diced turkey and gravy. Mix well.
5. Stuff each potato shell with the turkey-gravy mixture, mounding slightly in the center.
6. Dot the top of each potato with butter.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes
Turkey and Wild Rice Salad
This hearty salad combines the flavors of roasted turkey, nutty wild rice, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup diced roasted turkey breast
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked wild rice, roasted turkey breast, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Turkey and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of roasted turkey, cornbread, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 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.
3. Add the diced turkey, corn kernels, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the cornbread mix and milk until just combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Add the turkey mixture to the prepared baking dish.
7. Top with the cornbread mixture, spreading evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
This classic Italian-inspired dish gets a protein-packed twist with the addition of cooked turkey and wilted spinach. A perfect meal for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook turkey, onion, and garlic until the turkey is fully cooked.
3. Wilt spinach leaves with a pinch of salt and set aside.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and wilted spinach.
6. Assemble the lasagna: spread a layer of marinara sauce, followed by layers of turkey mixture, lasagna noodles, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the savory goodness of turkey and black beans with a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cooked black beans and enchilada sauce.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble enchiladas by spooning turkey mixture onto tortillas, rolling up, and placing seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful side dish that combines the savory flavors of turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked turkey, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add garlic, paprika, turkey, and roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish packed with turkey, broccoli, and a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add turkey and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, turkey-broccoli mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this creamy Turkey and Mushroom Risotto, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. If using wine, add it and stir until absorbed.
6. Add 1 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1-cup increments and waiting for absorption, about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is creamy.
7. Stir in the diced turkey and butter until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Panini
This Thanksgiving-inspired panini combines the savory flavors of turkey with the sweet and tangy taste of cranberries, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Baguette work well)
– 2 oz. sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place a slice of turkey on the unbuttered side of two bread slices, followed by a spoonful of cranberry sauce and a sprinkle of blue cheese.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices (buttered side up).
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Turkey and Biscuit Bake
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. This recipe combines the warmth of biscuits with the savory flavor of turkey, all in one delicious casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound leftover turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups biscuit dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
3. Add the turkey and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out the biscuit dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Cut into desired shapes or use a biscuit cutter.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the biscuits in the bottom. Top with the turkey mixture, then cover with the remaining biscuits.
6. Dot the top with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Pea Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the savory goodness of turkey with sweet peas and a medley of spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked turkey
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cooked turkey, peas, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until the mixture is well combined and heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, stirring constantly to combine with the turkey and pea mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover new ways to repurpose leftover turkey with these 20 delicious recipes. From comforting casseroles like Turkey and Stuffing Casserole to international-inspired dishes like Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Turkey Shepherd’s Pie or Turkey and Gravy Stuffed Potatoes for a cozy twist on traditional comfort food. Or, go light with Turkey and Avocado Salad Wraps or Turkey and Cranberry Panini for a refreshing meal. These easy and flavorful recipes will help you make the most of your post-holiday leftovers.
Leave a Reply