The day after Thanksgiving is a special time. The house is still full of love and laughter, but let’s face it—what do you do with all that leftover turkey? You might be craving something new and delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I created this list of 12 leftover turkey recipes that make for simple, satisfying meals.
If you’re someone who loves quick and healthy cooking, you’re in the right place. These recipes are not just about using up the turkey; they’re about making meals you’ll actually look forward to eating. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or anyone who enjoys a good meal without the fuss, these ideas will cater to your needs.
What can you expect? A variety of easy-to-follow recipes that transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into something completely fresh and exciting. From hearty turkey soup recipes to flavorful turkey tacos, you’ll find meals that are simple to prepare and packed with nutrition. Plus, I’ve included quick turkey stir-fries and easy turkey casseroles that fit perfectly into your meal prep routine. Get ready to turn that leftover turkey into something extraordinary!
Let’s jump in and discover how you can make the most of your holiday feast leftovers!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 delicious ways to use leftover turkey, ensuring no bit goes to waste.
– Enjoy healthy options like Turkey Quinoa Salad and Turkey & Sweet Potato Hash for nutritious meals.
– Explore creative recipes such as Turkey Pesto Pasta and Turkey Stuffed Peppers that your family will love.
– Each recipe is designed for quick preparation, making it easy to whip up a satisfying meal in no time.
– Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into exciting dishes, keeping your meals fresh and enjoyable.
1. Turkey and Vegetable Soup
Leftover turkey becomes a warm, comforting soup. It fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma while feeding your body.
Sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil. Add garlic, turkey, tomatoes, broth, and your favorite vegetables for color and life in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables
– 1 tsp thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in turkey, diced tomatoes, and broth.
4. Add mixed vegetables, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
6. Remove bay leaf before serving. Enjoy your nutritious turkey soup!
FAQs:
– Can I freeze this soup? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.
Leftover turkey turns into a cozy soup that fuels busy days. It’s fast, affordable, and loyal to your meal-prep goals—every spoonful fills you up without the fuss. Grab turkey, veggies, and broth, and you’re serving comfort in minutes.
Turkey and Vegetable Soup
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Fast and bright, this turkey stir-fry makes leftovers sing. It stays on the table fast and the flavors stay bold.
Slice peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for color and crunch. Toss them in a hot pan with a little oil until just tender, then add turkey and your favorite sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup snap peas
– 3 tbsp soy sauce or teriyaki sauce
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– Cooked brown rice or quinoa for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until tender.
3. Add turkey and sauce, and stir to combine.
4. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve over rice or quinoa. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use frozen veggies? Absolutely, just adjust the cooking time.
Turkey Stir-Fry
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Fresh and satisfying, this quinoa salad makes leftovers feel new. It pairs protein with wholesome grains for a filling meal.
Cook quinoa and let it cool, then mix with turkey, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion. Whisk olive oil with lemon juice and honey for a bright dressing and chill to meld flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, turkey, cucumber, tomatoes, and onion.
3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over salad, toss gently, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– How long does this salad last? In the fridge, it stays good for about 3 days.
Turkey Quinoa Salad
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Taco night is a simple joy. These turkey tacos are fast and flexible for different tastes.
Warm tortillas and heat turkey with taco seasoning until hot. Set out toppings like cilantro, tomatoes, onions, avocado, and salsa. Let everyone build their own for a fun meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8 tortillas
– Toppings: cilantro, tomatoes, onions, avocado, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat turkey in a skillet with taco seasoning until warmed.
2. Warm tortillas in another skillet or microwave.
3. Assemble tacos with turkey and your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I use ground turkey instead? Yes, just cook it until browned.
Turkey Tacos
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This creamy turkey casserole is all about comfort. Creamy sauce meets turkey and vegetables in a single dish.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Stir turkey, cooked pasta, broccoli, and cream of mushroom soup in a bowl. Pour into a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly. It’s simple, satisfying, and great for sharing.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 3 cups cooked pasta
– 1 cup broccoli, steamed
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, pasta, broccoli, and soup.
3. Pour mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top.
4. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly. Enjoy your creamy casserole!
FAQs:
– Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely, any veggies you enjoy will work!
Creamy Turkey Casserole
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These turkey salad sandwiches are easy and tasty. They make a quick lunch that hits the spot.
Chop turkey and mix with yogurt or mayo, diced celery, grapes, and walnuts. Season with salt and pepper, then pile on bread or wraps. They stay fresh in the fridge for fast meals later in the week.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayo
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1/2 cup grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Bread or wraps for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine turkey, Greek yogurt/mayo, celery, grapes, and walnuts.
2. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Serve on whole-grain bread or in lettuce wraps. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Turkey Salad Sandwiches
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Turn leftovers into a quick, savory fried rice. It’s filling and easy to customize.
Cook rice ahead and cool it. In a hot wok, fry onions, carrots, and peas in a little oil until tender. Add turkey and rice, then splash with soy sauce and stir until heated through. Scramble eggs in the wok and mix through for extra protein and texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
– 4 cups cooked rice
– 1 cup peas and carrots
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 3 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and carrots; stir-fry until softened.
3. Push to the side and add beaten eggs, scrambling until cooked.
4. Add turkey and rice, pour soy sauce, and mix well. Stir-fry until heated. Enjoy your fried rice!
FAQs:
– Can I make this without eggs? Yes, simply leave them out!
Turkey Fried Rice
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A comforting bowl of turkey chili is perfect for cooler days. It also stores well for quick meals later.
This chili warms the kitchen and fills bowls with spicy comfort. Sauté onions and garlic, then add turkey with beans, tomatoes, corn, and chili spices. Let it simmer for 30 minutes to blend the flavors. Top with yogurt and cilantro for brightness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 1 can kidney beans
– 1 can black beans
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup corn
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add shredded turkey, beans, tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Serve hot with yogurt and cilantro. Enjoy!
FAQs:
– Can this chili be frozen? Yes, it freezes well!
Turkey Chili
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Bright and fresh, turkey pesto pasta shows how simple meals shine. It comes together fast and uses leftovers well.
Cook pasta, then warm turkey with pesto. Toss with pasta and add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach. Top with Parmesan for a zesty finish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 8 oz pasta (your choice)
– 1 cup pesto
– Optional: sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a pan, combine turkey and pesto over medium heat.
3. Add pasta and any optional ingredients; toss to combine.
4. Serve with Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your pasta!
FAQs:
– Can I use different sauces? Yes, try Alfredo or marinara!
Turkey Pesto Pasta
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Pizza night gets a fresh lift with turkey on top. It works with store-bought or homemade crust.
Spread sauce, scatter turkey, and shower with mozzarella. Top with peppers or mushrooms if you like. Bake until bubbly and golden for a tasty twist on a familiar favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pizza crust
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese
– Toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven according to pizza crust instructions.
2. Spread sauce on the crust and add turkey and cheese.
3. Add any additional toppings you desire.
4. Bake according to crust instructions until golden and bubbly. Enjoy your pizza!
FAQs:
– Can I use a tortilla as a crust? Yes, for a quick personal pizza!
🍕 Leftover turkey recipes like this pizza prove leftovers can shine. Toss shredded turkey onto crust, splash with sauce, and bake until bubbly—it’s a quick, crowd-pleasing upgrade you can pull together in minutes.
Leftover Turkey Pizza
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11. Turkey & Sweet Potato Hash
Starting the day strong, this turkey hash blends sweet potatoes with protein for a hearty breakfast. It fuels you for the day ahead.
Sauté sweet potatoes until golden, then add onion and bell pepper. Stir in turkey and heat through. Top with eggs if you like for extra protein and richness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 2 sweet potatoes, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: eggs for topping
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add sweet potatoes and cook until golden, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in onion and bell pepper; cook until softened.
4. Add turkey and seasonings; heat through.
5. Top with eggs if desired and serve. Enjoy your hash!
FAQs:
– Can I use regular potatoes? Yes, for a different flavor!
Did you know leftover turkey in a sweet potato hash can cut breakfast prep time by 50%? This turkey & sweet potato hash packs protein and fiber, making your leftover turkey recipes easy, flavorful, and ready in minutes.
Turkey & Sweet Potato Hash
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Sweet peppers make a colorful and wholesome vessel for leftovers. They look fancy but are easy to pull off.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off peppers and remove the seeds. Mix turkey, rice, beans, corn, and taco seasoning. Stuff the peppers and top with cheese. Bake until peppers are tender and cheese bubbles.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can black beans, rinsed
– 1 cup corn
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix turkey, rice, beans, corn, and seasoning.
4. Stuff peppers with the mixture and top with cheese if desired.
5. Place in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes. Enjoy your stuffed peppers!
FAQs:
– Can I freeze these? Yes, before baking.
Turkey Stuffed Peppers
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With these twelve delicious leftover turkey recipes, you can transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into exciting meals that your family will love.
From hearty soups and casseroles to fresh salads and scrumptious tacos, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy the flavors of your leftovers, and remember, creativity in the kitchen is key to delicious meals!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best leftover turkey recipes for simple next-day meals?
For simple next-day meals, you can start with a few reliable options from the list of leftover turkey recipes: a quick turkey stir-fry, a comforting turkey soup, a satisfying turkey sandwich, or an easy casserole.
Tip: label and store your leftovers properly so you can reach for leftover turkey recipes when you need them. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth to restore moisture. Store in the fridge up to 3–4 days, or freeze portions for 2–3 months. When reheating, heat to steaming hot to keep flavors bright and avoid drying out the meat.
How can I turn leftover turkey into a quick turkey stir-fry?
Turn leftover turkey into a quick turkey stir-fry by sautéing sliced turkey with colorful veggies (bell peppers, snap peas, onions), a simple savory sauce (soy, garlic, ginger, a touch of honey), and a splash of sesame oil. Cook in 10–15 minutes over high heat, add the sauce to coat, and finish with sesame seeds. Use up any extra veggies you have to create a fast meal from leftover turkey recipes. Pro tip: keep turkey pieces slightly larger for better texture, and thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry if you like it glossy.
What are easy turkey casseroles I can make from Thanksgiving leftovers?
Try an easy turkey casserole lineup like turkey noodle bake, turkey pot pie casserole, or turkey and rice bake. Sauté onions and garlic, mix in chopped turkey, add a simple sauce or gravy, fold in veggies and your favorite starch, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly. These Thanksgiving leftover meals reheat well and keep the turkey moist, making them a crowd-pleasing option without a lot of effort. Pro tips: use leftover gravy to flavor the sauce and freeze single portions for future meals.
Any good turkey soup recipes using leftover turkey?
Yes—turkey soup recipes are a fantastic way to use bones and meat. Start with a quick homemade stock from the carcass or use store-bought stock, simmer with onion, carrot, celery, and herbs, skim fat, then add chopped turkey and quick add-ins like noodles, rice, or barley. This is a tasty example of turkey soup recipes that come together in about 30–45 minutes. Tip: strain the stock for a clearer soup and taste for salt before serving.
What are some turkey sandwich ideas for Thanksgiving leftovers and other quick Thanksgiving leftover meals?
Here are tasty turkey sandwich ideas you can rotate: classic turkey and cranberry on whole-grain, turkey club with bacon and avocado, turkey and avocado smash open-face, or a tangy mustard-mayo turkey wrap. For more variety, use leftovers in salads, quesadillas, or pita pockets. These are great examples of Thanksgiving leftover meals that travel well for lunch and keep well in the fridge for a few days. Quick tip: toast the bread for better texture and layer on a spread that complements the turkey—cranberry relish, chipotle mayo, or honey mustard.
Related Topics
leftover turkey recipes
turkey soup recipes
easy turkey casseroles
Thanksgiving meals
quick turkey stir-fry
meal prep
healthy recipes
turkey sandwiches
easy meals
one pot recipes
family-friendly
post-holiday meals
