Leftover turkey is often the star of the holiday feast, but once the main event is over, it can be hard to figure out how to make the most of those extra servings. Luckily, there are countless creative and delicious ways to repurpose your turkey leftovers into mouthwatering meals.
Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty, like turkey potpie or a comforting turkey noodle soup, or you’re looking for something light and refreshing, like a turkey Caesar wrap or a vibrant cranberry turkey salad, these ideas will help you transform your turkey leftovers into new dishes that are just as exciting as the original feast!
1. Healthy Leftover Turkey Soup
This comforting and wholesome turkey soup is the perfect way to use up your leftovers in a light and flavorful dish. Packed with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, and enriched with turkey meat, it makes a hearty, nourishing meal. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility – you can add any veggies or spices you like!
Plus, the turkey provides lean protein, making it both satisfying and healthy. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal. The broth is light but flavorful, and the inclusion of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can really enhance the flavor profile, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly nights.
Read the full recipe right here
2. 15-Minute Cranberry Turkey Salad
This vibrant and fresh salad takes just minutes to throw together, making it an ideal lunch or light dinner option. The sweetness of the cranberry perfectly complements the savory turkey, creating a flavor balance that is both sweet and savory.
Toss the turkey with greens like arugula or spinach, add some chopped celery for crunch, and finish it off with a zesty dressing made from olive oil, lemon juice, and honey. If you like, you can also add a sprinkle of nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture. The salad is refreshing, healthy, and full of antioxidants, making it an ideal post-holiday meal.
Get the full recipe here
3. Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup on the Stovetop
This turkey noodle soup is a cozy, one-pot meal that is both simple and satisfying. Using turkey leftovers, you create a rich broth that’s packed with flavor. The addition of egg noodles gives the soup a hearty texture, while fresh herbs and vegetables like carrots, onions, and garlic add a comforting depth of flavor.
It’s a quick and easy meal to prepare, ideal for those moments when you need something warm and filling after a busy day. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up extra turkey while enjoying the nostalgic warmth of homemade soup.
Check out the entire recipe right here
4. Turkey Cobb Salad
This hearty and filling salad is a perfect way to turn your leftover turkey into a satisfying, protein-packed meal. A classic Cobb salad combines crispy lettuce, turkey, bacon, avocado, hard-boiled eggs, and blue cheese, topped off with a tangy dressing. The turkey provides lean protein, while the creamy avocado adds healthy fats.
The bacon brings a crunchy, smoky element, and the blue cheese adds an extra layer of richness. This salad is not only a delicious way to use up leftover turkey but also a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Discover the full cooking instructions here
5. Leftover Turkey Patties
These turkey patties are a delicious and easy way to repurpose your leftover turkey into something new. Simply combine the turkey with breadcrumbs, egg, and a mix of spices like garlic powder and onion powder. Shape them into patties and pan-fry until golden brown and crispy.
These patties are versatile – serve them on a bun with your favorite toppings or enjoy them as a main dish with a side of vegetables or a fresh salad. They’re perfect for meal prepping and make for a great lunch or dinner option.
View the full recipe details here
6. Leftover Turkey Fried Rice
Leftover turkey fried rice is a quick and flavorful dish that transforms your leftovers into something completely different. Using cooked rice, turkey, and a variety of vegetables like peas, carrots, and onions, you can create a tasty stir-fry that’s ready in just minutes.
The addition of soy sauce and a scrambled egg adds depth and richness to the dish. This recipe is versatile and can be customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an easy go-to for any leftovers you have in your fridge.
Find the complete instructions here
7. Hearty Ground Turkey Risotto
Ground turkey risotto is a comforting, creamy dish that combines the richness of risotto with lean turkey. The turkey adds a savory depth to the risotto, while the creamy Arborio rice provides a satisfying, luxurious texture.
You can add vegetables like spinach or peas to the dish for extra nutrients, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top will give it a rich, cheesy finish. The risotto is a warm, filling meal that’s perfect for any season, and it’s a great way to use up extra ground turkey from your leftovers.
See the entire recipe right here
8. Succulent Rolled Turkey Breast with Stuffing
If you’re looking for a more elegant way to use leftover turkey, try making a rolled turkey breast with stuffing. Take the turkey breast, layer it with a delicious stuffing mixture (which can include breadcrumbs, herbs, and veggies), and roll it up tightly.
Roast it in the oven until the turkey is golden and cooked through. The result is a beautifully stuffed, savory turkey roll that’s perfect for special occasions or a weekend dinner. It’s a great way to elevate your leftovers while enjoying a flavorful, juicy turkey dish.
Find the entire recipe here
9. Turkey Stew Recipe with Lots of Vegetables
This turkey stew is a hearty, one-pot meal filled with tender chunks of turkey and a variety of vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and peas. The turkey simmers in a rich broth, absorbing all the flavors from the herbs and vegetables. This dish is perfect for a cozy, comforting meal and can be made ahead of time for a stress-free dinner.
The variety of vegetables adds both flavor and nutrition, while the turkey provides lean protein to keep you satisfied. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete and filling meal.
Explore the complete recipe here
10. Turkey Enchiladas
Turkey enchiladas are a fantastic way to reinvent your leftovers with bold and vibrant flavors. Start by rolling your leftover turkey in corn tortillas and smothering them with a rich, spicy enchilada sauce. Top it off with a generous amount of melted cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly.
These enchiladas are packed with flavor and have a satisfying texture. You can add beans, corn, or peppers for extra crunch and color. Serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, and a fresh salad for a delicious and well-rounded meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
See the entire recipe here
11. Turkey Potpie
A classic comfort food, turkey potpie is a delicious way to repurpose your leftovers. The creamy filling, made with turkey, vegetables like peas and carrots, and a rich gravy, is topped with a flaky pie crust. The dish is savory, hearty, and perfect for a cozy dinner.
You can customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or even use mashed potatoes for a twist. Bake until the crust is golden brown and serve this comforting meal alongside a fresh salad. It’s a great way to make a filling meal out of what’s left from your holiday turkey!
Check out the full recipe here
12. Turkey & Leek Shepherd’s Pie
A savory twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie, this version uses leftover turkey instead of ground meat. The turkey is combined with a flavorful leek and vegetable mixture, creating a rich and comforting filling. A creamy mashed potato topping completes the dish.
After baking, the pie turns golden and bubbly, making it a satisfying and filling meal. It’s an excellent option for repurposing turkey in a way that’s both hearty and delicious, with a new spin on a classic favorite.
Discover the full recipe here
13. Turkey & Sweet Potato Curry
This turkey and sweet potato curry is the perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The turkey is simmered with chunks of sweet potato in a flavorful curry sauce made with coconut milk, garlic, ginger, and spices.
The sweet potatoes become tender while absorbing the rich, aromatic curry sauce. Serve it with steamed rice for a complete and flavorful meal. This dish is easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, offering a comforting and spicy alternative for leftover turkey.
View the complete recipe here
14. Turkey Tacos
Turn your leftover turkey into a fun, flavor-packed meal by making turkey tacos. Shred the turkey and heat it with taco seasoning, adding onions, garlic, and bell peppers for extra flavor. Spoon the turkey mixture into soft or crunchy taco shells, and top with your favorite garnishes like lettuce, cheese, salsa, and guacamole.
It’s a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, tacos are versatile—you can adjust the toppings to suit everyone’s taste, making it a crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
Get the complete recipe here
15. Turkey Caesar Salad Wraps
These turkey Caesar salad wraps are a healthy and delicious way to enjoy your leftover turkey. Toss the turkey with romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese, then wrap everything in a whole-wheat tortilla for a quick meal.
The crispy lettuce and savory turkey make for a satisfying and flavorful wrap. You can also add some extras, like sliced avocado or bacon, to make the wraps even more indulgent. These wraps are perfect for lunch on-the-go or a light dinner.
See the entire recipe here
16. Turkey Banh Mi Sandwich
Inspired by the classic Vietnamese sandwich, the turkey Banh Mi is a fusion dish that gives your leftover turkey a fresh and vibrant twist. Take a baguette and fill it with shredded turkey, pickled vegetables (like carrots and daikon radish), fresh cilantro, and a spread of spicy mayo.
The result is a crunchy, tangy, and savory sandwich that’s full of bold flavors. It’s an exciting way to use leftover turkey and enjoy a bit of culinary adventure while keeping things quick and easy.
Learn the full recipe here
17. Turkey Sliders
If you’re in the mood for a finger food-style meal, turkey sliders are a great option. Take small buns and layer them with shredded leftover turkey, a slice of cheese, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce or cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Serve these sliders as appetizers for a party or as a casual dinner option. They’re bite-sized, full of flavor, and easy to assemble, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. You can also customize the toppings to your liking.
Find the entire recipe here
18. Turkey Chili
Warm up with a bowl of turkey chili, a healthier alternative to the traditional beef chili. The turkey provides lean protein while the beans, tomatoes, and spices create a rich, flavorful base. Simmer the chili until it’s thick and hearty, and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro.
This dish is great for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for a few days. The spices can be adjusted to your taste, making it a versatile and comforting meal.
Check out the entire recipe right here
19. Turkey & Avocado Quesadillas
Quesadillas are always a crowd-pleaser, and when you add leftover turkey, they become even more delicious. Spread shredded turkey on a flour tortilla, then layer with cheese, avocado, and a few slices of tomato.
Cook in a skillet until golden and crispy on both sides, then cut into wedges. These quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and they can be served with salsa or sour cream for dipping. The creamy avocado adds richness, while the turkey provides a satisfying protein boost.
Find the complete instructions here
20. Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
For a light and savory dish, try turkey and spinach stuffed mushrooms. Remove the stems from large mushrooms and fill them with a mixture of leftover turkey, spinach, cream cheese, and Parmesan. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden and bubbly.
These stuffed mushrooms make a great appetizer or a light main dish when paired with a side salad. The turkey adds substance, while the spinach and creamy cheese bring flavor and richness to each bite.
Get the full recipe here