The holidays are over, but the delicious leftovers live on. If you’re like most people, you probably have a fridge full of turkey and trimmings just waiting to be transformed into something new and exciting. But let’s be real – only so many turkey sandwiches can be consumed before boredom sets in. That’s why we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering leftover turkey recipes that are easy to make and will breathe new life into your holiday leftovers.
From savory casseroles to flavorful stir-fries, and from comforting soups to decadent lasagnas, these recipes showcase the versatility of turkey and offer a world of possibilities for mealtime inspiration. So go ahead, get creative, and turn that leftover turkey into something truly special.
Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
Savor the flavors of Mexico with these easy-to-make Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the turkey breast and shredded cheese.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the turkey-cheese mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is lightly browned, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Turkey Pot Pie
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion. This creamy turkey pot pie is filled with tender turkey, vegetables, and a rich gravy, all wrapped in a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add turkey, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
3. Roll out one pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the turkey mixture and top with the second pie crust.
4. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits in the top for steam release.
5. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish, Turkey Fried Rice is a satisfying meal made with cooked turkey, vegetables, and rice. This recipe combines the flavors of Thanksgiving with the ease of stir-frying.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked turkey (warmed)
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons 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. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked turkey; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is well combined with the other ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Sandwich
A delicious twist on the classic turkey sandwich, this recipe combines juicy turkey with sweet and tangy cranberries for a flavorful and festive snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole wheat bread
– 2 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 lettuce leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices.
2. Spread mayonnaise on one slice.
3. Arrange the sliced turkey on top of the mayonnaise.
4. Sprinkle cranberries over the turkey.
5. Add a lettuce leaf on top of the cranberries.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the second bread slice on top.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Cook time: None (just assemble!)
Turkey Noodle Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Turkey Noodle Soup, perfect for any time of the year. This easy-to-make recipe is a classic favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 turkey and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through.
5. Add the noodles, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Tetrazzini
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey, mushrooms, and creamy sauce with a crispy bread crumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add cooked turkey, cream, and cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Holiday Dish
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey, savory stuffing, and creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting casserole that’s perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups stuffing mix (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine the turkey, stuffing mix, peas and carrots, milk, melted butter, and poultry seasoning. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is heated through.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Sprinkle with flour and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the potatoes are set.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Enchiladas
This recipe is a twist on traditional enchiladas, featuring shredded turkey instead of beef or chicken. The result is a flavorful and moist dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shredded turkey and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, warm the tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
5. To assemble the enchiladas, dip each tortilla in the enchilada sauce, then fill with the turkey mixture and roll up.
6. Place the rolled enchiladas seam-side down in a baking dish and top with remaining enchilada sauce and shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of roasted turkey, creamy avocado, and crunchy lettuce, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a healthy snack. With its simplicity and versatility, this recipe is a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced turkey, avocado, mixed greens, and cherry tomatoes.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
This hearty, comforting dish is a twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, featuring tender turkey and rich vegetables topped with a golden mashed potato crust. Perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing main course.
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 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook turkey, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, and thyme in a large skillet until the turkey is browned and cooked through.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potato topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the savory taste of turkey with a medley of colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snow peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, garlic, and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Turkey and Gravy Poutine
This comforting dish combines crispy fries, savory turkey, and rich gravy for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb French fries (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook French fries according to package instructions or fry at home until crispy.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add diced turkey to the gravy and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble poutine by placing fries in a serving dish or individual bowls, followed by turkey and gravy.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (depending on French fry cooking time)
Turkey and Rice Stuffed Peppers
Savory peppers filled with a flavorful mixture of turkey, rice, and spices make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine turkey, rice, onion, cheese, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey and Biscuit Bake
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey, creamy biscuits, and savory vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation and short cooking time, it’s an ideal option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups leftover cooked turkey, diced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 cups biscuit mix
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, vegetables, soup, and milk. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare biscuit mix according to package instructions.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Add the turkey mixture to the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with biscuit mixture and sprinkle with cheddar cheese and paprika.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
A twist on the classic Italian dish, this lasagna combines the flavors of turkey, spinach, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 12 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, and garlic until the turkey is fully cooked.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, spinach, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
7. Assemble lasagna by layering noodles, turkey mixture, and cheese mixture.
8. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful side dish or main course that combines the savory taste of turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add diced turkey to the skillet and stir to combine with onion mixture.
6. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet and stir to combine with turkey mixture.
7. Sprinkle smoked paprika on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Corn Chowder
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful chowder that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in corn kernels, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the richness of turkey sausage with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy Arborio rice dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
6. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, rice should be creamy and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of eating the same old turkey sandwiches every day? Look no further! This article presents 18 delicious leftover turkey recipes that are easy to make and will help you use up all that extra turkey. From Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas to Turkey Shepherd’s Pie, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory casserole or a comforting bowl of soup, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your leftovers.
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.
