Are you tired of eating the same old leftovers day after day? Do you wish there was a way to transform your leftover turkey into a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights in? Look no further! In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering crockpot recipes that will breathe new life into your leftover turkey and make it the star of the show. From hearty soups and stews to creative casseroles and pasta dishes, there’s something on this list for everyone.
From traditional comfort foods like slow cooker turkey and dumplings to international-inspired dishes like turkey and lentil curry, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites. And with a crockpot, you can simply toss all the ingredients in and let the magic happen while you’re busy with other things – no fuss, no muss!
Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender turkey, nutty wild rice, and flavorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s an ideal recipe for a chilly day or a busy weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked wild rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine turkey, chicken broth, wild rice, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and thyme.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in diced tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Crockpot Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
A delicious and easy-to-make casserole that combines the flavors of turkey, stuffing, and vegetables in one convenient dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 box of stuffing mix (white or cornbread)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the Crockpot, combine the turkey, stuffing mix, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, and chicken broth.
2. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Leftover Turkey Chili with Beans
Transform last night’s turkey into a delicious and comforting chili, perfect for using up leftover ingredients. This easy recipe is a great way to reduce food waste and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the diced turkey, chili powder, and cumin. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in the canned tomatoes, beans, salt, and pepper.
4. Add water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stew in the Crockpot
This slow-cooked stew is a perfect blend of savory turkey, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in your crockpot. A comforting meal for any day!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, turkey, carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper to your crockpot.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth, followed by adding the thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Stir everything together, then cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Pasta in the Slow Cooker
This comforting pasta dish is a perfect blend of tender turkey, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce, all made easy with the slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the turkey in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add the mushrooms, onion, garlic, pasta, diced tomatoes, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash Crockpot Recipe
This hearty recipe combines tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and savory spices, perfect for a comforting meal or as a delicious side dish. With minimal effort, you’ll have a flavorful and filling hash ready to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the ground turkey, chopped onion, minced garlic, and smoked paprika to the crockpot.
2. Top with sweet potatoes and drizzle with olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Turkey and Dumplings
This comforting recipe is a twist on classic chicken and dumplings, featuring tender turkey and pillowy soft dumplings cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped veggies (carrots, celery, onions) for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place turkey in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and melted butter. Gradually add broth and milk, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares or circles).
4. Place dumplings on top of turkey in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: Ladle turkey and dumplings into bowls and enjoy!
Leftover Turkey and Corn Chowder
Transform last night’s turkey dinner into a delicious and comforting soup. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey, corn, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced turkey, corn kernels, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crockpot Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
This recipe is perfect for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. By using ground turkey and canned black beans, you’ll get all the benefits of a traditional enchilada without the hassle of making your own tortillas or cooking chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground turkey in a skillet and drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, garlic, black beans, and enchilada sauce to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
3. Place 2-3 corn tortillas on top of the bean mixture.
4. Spoon the turkey mixture over the tortillas, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a layer of cheese.
6. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
7. Serve hot and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Turkey and Lentil Curry in the Slow Cooker
A flavorful and nutritious curry made with tender turkey, red lentils, and aromatic spices, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add the turkey, lentils, onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and salt to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Leftover Turkey and Barley Soup
Transform your leftover turkey into a hearty and comforting soup with this simple recipe. Perfect for using up extra bird, this barley-based soup is a great way to stretch your holiday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked turkey, diced
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine turkey, barley, broth, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crockpot Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this unique twist on the classic dish, featuring tender turkey and creamy spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, and garlic until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
3. Stir in spinach, crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer crockpot with 1/3 of the turkey mixture, 1/3 of the lasagna noodles, and 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Turkey and Quinoa Salad
This recipe is a perfect blend of protein-packed turkey, nutty quinoa, and flavorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. A great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 onion
– 2 cloves garlic
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine turkey breast, quinoa, mixed vegetables, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Cabbage Stew in the Crockpot
This comforting crockpot recipe combines tender turkey, sweet cabbage, and savory spices to create a deliciously easy meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the turkey, onion, garlic, cabbage, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, and smoked paprika to the crockpot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Leftover Turkey and Rice Casserole
Transform your leftover turkey into a satisfying casserole that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch. This recipe is a great way to use up those holiday leftovers and enjoy a warm, comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or diced)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup canned cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onion, bell peppers, or other spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, rice, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, and butter. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crockpot Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo
A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Crockpot recipe combines tender turkey, steaming broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce in one convenient pot.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 oz fettuccine noodles
Instructions:
1. Place the turkey breast, broccoli, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a Crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the fettuccine noodles according to package instructions.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the turkey mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Turkey and Potato Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day or a weeknight dinner. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with tender turkey, potatoes, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the turkey, potatoes, onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and dried thyme. Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Kale Soup in the Crockpot
This comforting crockpot recipe combines tender turkey, nutritious kale, and aromatic vegetables to create a deliciously satisfying soup perfect for a chilly evening or as a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add turkey breast, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and thyme to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add kale, bell pepper, and diced tomatoes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Leftover Turkey and Chickpea Curry
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious and nutritious curry with the added bonus of chickpeas, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced turkey and stir well to combine.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using) and serve over rice, naan, or with some crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crockpot Turkey and Pasta Bake
This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for a busy day when you want a meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfyingly filling. With tender turkey, al dente pasta, and a rich tomato sauce, this Crockpot recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 cup uncooked penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the turkey breast in the Crockpot.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, marinara sauce, and penne pasta on top of the turkey.
3. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get creative with your leftover turkey and try these 20 delicious crockpot recipes for busy nights. From hearty soups to comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Whip up a Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Rice Soup, or go for a twist on the classics with Leftover Turkey Chili with Beans or Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Pasta. Or try your hand at international flavors with Turkey and Lentil Curry or Leftover Turkey and Chickpea Curry. Whatever you choose, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
