After Thanksgiving, you might find yourself with a fridge full of leftover turkey. Don’t let it go to waste!

There are many tasty ways to use up those turkey leftovers and create new meals your family will love.

Leftover turkey recipes can turn yesterday’s dinner into exciting new dishes. From soups and sandwiches to tacos and pot pies, you’ll find plenty of options to keep meals interesting.

These recipes make it easy to use up extra turkey while adding variety to your menu in the days after the holiday.

1. Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey tetrazzini is a tasty way to use your leftover turkey. This comforting pasta dish combines tender turkey with a creamy sauce.

To make it, cook linguine or spaghetti noodles. Sauté mushrooms and onions in butter.

Mix in cubed turkey, the pasta, and a creamy sauce.

Pour the mixture into a casserole dish. Top with cheese and bake until bubbly. Some recipes add crunchy almonds on top for extra texture.

Turkey tetrazzini is quick to prepare. It usually takes about 45 minutes total, with only 10-15 minutes of prep time.

Your family will love this cozy meal made from holiday leftovers.

2. Thanksgiving Sandwich

A Thanksgiving sandwich is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Start with two slices of soft bread, like sourdough. Spread mayo on both sides.

Add a layer of sliced turkey. Top it with stuffing and mashed potatoes. Don’t forget the cranberry sauce for a sweet touch.

You can add other leftovers too. Try green bean casserole or sweet potato casserole. Some people like to add gravy for extra flavor.

This sandwich packs all the best Thanksgiving flavors into one meal. It’s quick to make and perfect for a post-holiday lunch.

3. Turkey Pot Pie

Turkey pot pie is a great way to use up leftover turkey. You can make it with a mix of vegetables like peas, carrots, and celery.

Start by cooking the veggies in butter until soft. Add flour to thicken the sauce, then pour in broth and milk.

Stir in your leftover turkey and seasonings.

Pour the filling into a pie dish and top with pastry. Bake at 400°F until the crust is golden brown.

This cozy dish turns your turkey leftovers into a whole new meal. It’s perfect for chilly days after the holidays.

4. Turkey Noodle Soup

Turkey noodle soup is a comforting way to use leftover turkey. You can make it easily with ingredients you likely have on hand.

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot. Add turkey broth, leftover turkey, and herbs like thyme and parsley.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until the veggies are tender. Add egg noodles and cook until they’re soft.

For extra richness, you can stir in some evaporated milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days after Thanksgiving. It’s a great way to stretch your turkey leftovers into another satisfying meal.

5. Cranberry Turkey Salad

Cranberry turkey salad is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Mix chopped turkey with dried cranberries and chopped walnuts or pecans. Add diced celery for crunch.

Stir in some fresh parsley and mayonnaise to bind it all together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For extra flavor, try adding a spoonful of Dijon mustard or a splash of vinegar.

You can serve this salad on its own, in sandwiches, or over a bed of greens.

It’s quick to make and keeps well in the fridge. This salad is perfect for lunch or a light dinner in the days after Thanksgiving.

6. Turkey Enchiladas

Turkey enchiladas are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make them with corn or flour tortillas. Fill the tortillas with shredded turkey and cheese.

Roll them up and place them in a baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce over the top. Red or green sauce works well.

Sprinkle more cheese on top. Bake until the cheese melts and gets bubbly.

You can add toppings like sour cream, cilantro, or avocado.

This dish is easy to customize. Try adding beans, corn, or diced peppers to the filling. Serve with rice and beans for a complete meal.

7. Turkey Curry

Turkey curry is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. It’s quick and easy to make in about 30 minutes. You can use white or brown rice as a side dish.

The curry sauce is creamy and flavorful. It often includes coconut milk, which adds richness. Butter and cream also make the sauce smooth and delicious.

You can adjust the spices to your taste. Common spices include curry powder, turmeric, and garam masala.

Add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

This dish is comforting and satisfying. Your family will enjoy this new twist on leftover turkey. It’s a nice change from typical turkey sandwiches or soup.

8. Turkey and Swiss Panini

A turkey and Swiss panini is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. Start with two slices of bread and spread fig jam and Dijon mustard on one side of each slice.

Layer shredded turkey, Swiss cheese, and cranberry sauce mixed with chopped pecans between the bread slices. Butter the outside of the sandwich.

Grill the panini in a hot skillet or panini press until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden brown. Press down gently with a spatula if using a skillet.

Slice the panini in half and enjoy your warm, crispy sandwich. The flavors of turkey, Swiss, and cranberry combine for a satisfying meal.

9. Turkey Chili

Turkey chili is a great way to use leftover turkey. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor.

Start by sautéing onions and peppers in a large pot. Add garlic, chili powder, and cumin for extra taste.

Mix in your leftover turkey, then pour in tomatoes, beans, and stock. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes.

You can add corn for sweetness and texture. Serve your chili over rice or with cornbread for a filling meal.

This dish is perfect for cold days and can be customized to your taste. Add more spices if you like it hot, or keep it mild for the whole family.

10. Turkey Caesar Wraps

Turkey Caesar wraps are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You’ll need Caesar dressing, shredded turkey, and tortillas or wraps. Mix the dressing with the turkey and season to taste.

Warm your wraps to make them more flexible. Add lettuce, the turkey mixture, and any veggies you like. Carrots or tomatoes work well.

Roll everything up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.

For extra flavor, try adding bacon or avocado. You can also use different dressings if you prefer.

These wraps are quick to make and perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

11. Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Turkey stuffed peppers are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Start by cutting bell peppers in half and removing the seeds.

Roast the peppers in the oven for about 15 minutes to soften them. While they cook, mix your leftover turkey with rice, cheese, and spices.

Fill the pepper halves with your turkey mixture. Top with more cheese if you like. Bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot.

This dish is easy to customize. You can add veggies like zucchini or spinach to the filling. Salsa or tomato sauce gives extra flavor too.

12. Turkey Casserole

Turkey casserole is a great way to use up leftover turkey. You can mix shredded turkey with vegetables, cheese, and a creamy sauce. Then top it with breadcrumbs or stuffing for a crunchy layer.

Bake the casserole until it’s hot and bubbly. This dish is filling and comforting on cold days after Thanksgiving.

You can add different spices or vegetables to change up the flavors.

Try using leftover gravy as part of the sauce. Or mix in some cranberry sauce for a tangy twist. Serve your turkey casserole with a side salad for a complete meal.

13. Turkey and Vegetable Stir Fry

Turkey and vegetable stir fry is a quick and tasty way to use up leftover turkey. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add your choice of vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas.

Cook the veggies for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Add minced garlic and ginger for extra flavor.

Toss in your leftover turkey pieces and stir to warm them through.

Mix chicken broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch in a small bowl. Pour this sauce into the pan and cook until it thickens.

Serve your stir fry over rice for a filling meal that’s ready in minutes.

14. Turkey Alfredo Pizza

Turkey Alfredo Pizza is a tasty way to use your leftover turkey. Start with a pizza crust and spread Alfredo sauce over it. This creamy base adds rich flavor to the pizza.

Next, add your cooked turkey pieces on top of the sauce. You can also include some spinach for extra nutrition and color. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over everything for more cheesy goodness.

Bake the pizza in a hot oven until the crust is crispy and the cheese melts.

You can customize this pizza with other toppings you like. Try adding bacon bits or sliced tomatoes for extra flavor. This easy recipe turns your turkey leftovers into a whole new meal.

15. Leftover Turkey Risotto

Transform your leftover turkey into a creamy, comforting risotto. Start by sautéing onions in olive oil and butter until soft. Add rice and toast it for a minute or two.

Gradually stir in warm broth, letting the rice absorb it before adding more. This process takes about 20-25 minutes.

Near the end, mix in your shredded turkey and some mushrooms if you like.

Finish with a pat of butter and grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. The result is a warm, satisfying meal that breathes new life into your turkey leftovers.

16. Creamy Turkey Pasta

Creamy turkey pasta is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes.

Start by cooking your favorite pasta according to the package directions.

While the pasta cooks, sauté onions and garlic in a pan. Add diced turkey and cook until warm.

Pour in some heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich sauce.

Toss the cooked pasta with the creamy turkey mixture.

For extra flavor, you can add vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste.

17. Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash

Turkey and sweet potato hash is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. This dish combines cubed sweet potatoes, diced turkey, and savory spices for a flavorful meal.

Start by cooking cubed sweet potatoes in a skillet with olive oil. Add onions and bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Once the vegetables soften, mix in your leftover turkey.

Season the hash with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm, comforting taste. You can also add garlic or other herbs to suit your preferences.

Cook everything together until heated through and slightly crispy.

This versatile dish works well for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Serve it on its own or with a fried egg on top for added protein.

18. Turkey and Avocado Toast

Turkey and avocado toast is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Start with toasted bread of your choice. Mash ripe avocado and spread it on the toast.

Add thin slices of turkey on top of the avocado. You can use cold or warmed turkey. Sprinkle some salt and pepper to taste.

For extra flavor, try adding toppings like sliced tomatoes, crumbled bacon, or a fried egg. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.

This quick meal works great for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. It’s an easy way to transform your turkey leftovers into something new and delicious.

19. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make it easily with ingredients you likely have on hand.

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery in butter. Add your chopped turkey and some herbs for flavor.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Top it with a layer of leftover vegetables like corn or peas.

Spread mashed potatoes over everything. You can use leftover mashed potatoes or make fresh ones.

Bake the pie until it’s hot and the top is golden brown. This dish is comforting and satisfying on a cool day.

20. Turkey Frittata

A turkey frittata is a great way to use up leftover turkey. You can make this dish in a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan. Start by cooking onions and peppers until soft.

Add your leftover turkey and any other vegetables you like. Pour whisked eggs over the top.

Cook on the stovetop until the edges set.

Finish cooking in the oven under the broiler. This will make the top golden brown. You can add cheese or herbs for extra flavor.

A frittata is quick to make and perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s also good for any meal of the day. You can serve it hot or at room temperature.

21. Turkey Fried Rice

Turkey fried rice is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. You’ll need cooked rice, shredded turkey, and some veggies.

Heat oil in a large pan or wok. Add diced onions and cook until soft.

Toss in frozen vegetables and let them thaw.

Increase the heat and add your rice and turkey. Stir in soy sauce a bit at a time. This gives the dish its signature flavor.

Crack eggs into the pan and scramble them. Mix everything together well.

The result is a quick, filling meal that transforms your leftovers into something new.

22. Turkey and Quinoa Bowl

Got leftover turkey? Make a tasty and nutritious bowl with quinoa.

Cook quinoa according to package instructions. While it’s cooking, warm up your turkey slices.

Chop some veggies like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Sauté them in a pan with a bit of olive oil until they’re soft.

Mix the cooked quinoa, warmed turkey, and sautéed veggies in a bowl. Add some black beans for extra protein and fiber.

Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. You can also add herbs like cilantro or parsley for extra flavor.

This quick and easy meal is perfect for using up turkey while getting a balanced, healthy dinner.

23. Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Turkey lettuce wraps are a light and tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make them quickly and easily with just a few ingredients.

Start by chopping your leftover turkey into small pieces. Mix it with some mayo and Dijon mustard to taste, like you would for chicken salad.

Wash and dry some romaine lettuce leaves. These will be your “wraps”. Spoon the turkey mixture onto each leaf.

For extra flavor, try adding some Asian-inspired sauces. Mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and a bit of chili oil for a kick. Drizzle this over your turkey before wrapping.

You can also add crisp veggies like broccoli slaw for crunch. These wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

24. Turkey Gumbo

Turkey gumbo is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You start by making a roux with oil and flour, cooking it until it’s dark brown.

Next, add chopped veggies like celery, onions, and bell peppers. Cook them until soft.

Stir in spices like thyme, sage, salt, and cayenne pepper. Pour in turkey stock and let it simmer.

Add your leftover turkey meat, some andouille sausage, and okra if you like. Let everything cook together for about an hour.

Serve your gumbo over rice for a filling meal. It’s a great choice for chilly days after Thanksgiving.

25. Turkey Lasagna

Turkey lasagna is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. You can make it by layering lasagna noodles with turkey, vegetables, and cheese.

Start by cooking onions, garlic, and veggies like carrots and peppers in a pan. Add chopped turkey and your favorite pasta sauce.

In a baking dish, alternate layers of noodles, turkey mixture, and cheese. Ricotta mixed with Parmesan works well for the cheese layers.

Bake the lasagna in a 350°F oven until it’s hot and bubbly. Let it cool a bit before serving. This dish is filling and feeds a crowd.

26. Spicy Thai Turkey Soup

This zesty soup transforms leftover turkey into a Thai-inspired delight. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a pot. Add curry paste for a spicy kick.

Pour in chicken broth and coconut milk to create a creamy base. Toss in your shredded turkey meat and let it simmer.

For extra flavor, include lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves if you have them.

Throw in some mushrooms and bell peppers for added texture. Finish with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

This soup is perfect for warming up on chilly days and using up your Thanksgiving leftovers.

27. Turkey and Black Bean Burritos

Turkey and black bean burritos are a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. Start by warming tortillas and preparing your fillings.

Mix shredded turkey with cooked black beans, diced onions, and bell peppers. Add some minced garlic and spices like cumin and chili powder for flavor.

Spread the mixture onto warm tortillas. Top with shredded cheese, lettuce, and a spoonful of salsa or mashed potatoes if you have them.

Roll up the tortillas tightly to form burritos. You can eat them right away or wrap them in foil to heat up later.

These burritos are filling and packed with protein. They make a quick lunch or dinner option that the whole family will enjoy.

28. Turkey Piccata

Turkey piccata is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make this dish in about 20 minutes.

Start by slicing your turkey thinly. Dredge the slices in flour seasoned with salt and pepper.

Cook the turkey in a hot skillet with olive oil until golden. Remove it and keep warm.

In the same pan, make a sauce with butter, lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. The capers add a nice tangy flavor.

Pour the sauce over your turkey slices. Serve with pasta or vegetables for a quick, delicious meal.

29. Turkey and Broccoli Stir Fry

Got leftover turkey? Try this quick and tasty stir fry. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and packed with flavor.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli and cook for 3 minutes until it starts to soften.

Toss in your leftover turkey and any other veggies you like. Bell peppers work great here.

Mix up a simple sauce with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Pour it over the turkey and veggies.

Cook everything together for a few more minutes. Serve your stir fry hot over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

30. Turkey Club Salad

Turkey Club Salad is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make it easily with ingredients you probably have on hand.

Start by toasting some walnuts for crunch. Chop up your leftover turkey into bite-sized pieces. Add crisp bacon bits and diced tomatoes for classic club sandwich flavors.

Mix these with fresh arugula or lettuce.

For dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice. This gives a tangy flavor that goes well with turkey.

You can serve this salad on its own or use it as a sandwich filling. It’s a quick and delicious meal that transforms your turkey leftovers into something new.

31. Turkey and Spinach Quesadillas

Turkey and spinach quesadillas are a tasty way to use leftover turkey. Start by warming tortillas in a skillet over medium heat.

Spread shredded turkey and chopped spinach on half of each tortilla. Add some cheese and any other veggies you like.

Fold the tortilla in half and cook until golden brown on both sides. The cheese should be melted and gooey.

Serve your quesadillas with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping. You can also add some taco seasoning to the turkey for extra flavor.

This quick meal is perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s a great way to transform your turkey leftovers into something new and delicious.

32. Turkey Tortilla Soup

Turkey tortilla soup is a tasty way to use leftover turkey. You can make it easily in one pot.

Start by cooking onions and garlic in oil. Add spices like cumin and chili powder for flavor.

Pour in chicken broth and canned tomatoes. Stir in shredded turkey meat.

Let the soup simmer to blend the flavors. Add corn and beans if you like.

Top with crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese.

This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days. It’s a great change from typical turkey leftovers. You can adjust the spices to make it as mild or spicy as you want.

33. Turkey and Dill Sandwich

A turkey and dill sandwich is a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. Start with two slices of your favorite bread. Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice.

Layer on sliced turkey, fresh dill sprigs, and cucumber slices. The dill adds a bright, herbal flavor that complements the turkey. Cucumber provides a refreshing crunch.

For extra flavor, add a slice of Swiss cheese or a sprinkle of crumbled feta. You can also include lettuce or tomato if you like.

Close the sandwich and enjoy this simple but delicious meal.

34. Turkey Croquettes

Turkey croquettes are a tasty way to use up leftover turkey. Mix minced turkey with mashed potatoes, herbs, and spices. Form the mixture into small balls or patties.

Coat the croquettes in breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior. You can bake them in the oven or fry them in a pan.

These croquettes make a great appetizer or main dish. Serve them with a dipping sauce like cranberry sauce or gravy. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Turkey croquettes are easy to make and reheat well. You can freeze them for later too. They’re a versatile dish that your family will enjoy.

35. Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff

Turkey and mushroom stroganoff is a great way to use up leftover turkey. This dish combines chunks of turkey with earthy mushrooms in a creamy sauce.

To make it, sauté mushrooms and onions in a pan. Add garlic for extra flavor. Mix in your cooked turkey pieces.

For the sauce, use cream of mushroom soup or make your own with sour cream and broth. Stir everything together and let it simmer.

Serve your stroganoff over egg noodles or rice. It’s a comforting meal that transforms your turkey leftovers into something new and delicious.

Nutritional Benefits of Turkey

Turkey is a nutritious meat option packed with essential nutrients. It provides high-quality protein, important vitamins and minerals, and can be a lean choice when prepared properly.

Rich in Protein

Turkey is an excellent source of protein. A 3-ounce serving of turkey breast contains about 26 grams of protein. This makes it a great food for building and repairing muscles.

Protein also helps you feel full longer. This can be useful if you’re trying to manage your weight.

Turkey provides all the essential amino acids your body needs. These are the building blocks for proteins that your body can’t make on its own.

Vitamins and Minerals

Turkey contains several important vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in B vitamins, especially niacin and vitamin B6.

These B vitamins help your body turn food into energy. They also support brain function and help make red blood cells.

Turkey is a good source of selenium, zinc, and phosphorus.

Selenium acts as an antioxidant in your body. Zinc supports your immune system. Phosphorus helps build strong bones and teeth.

Turkey also provides iron, which is crucial for carrying oxygen in your blood.

Low in Fat

Turkey can be a low-fat protein option, especially if you choose white meat without the skin. A 3-ounce serving of skinless turkey breast contains only about 3 grams of fat.

Removing the skin before eating greatly reduces the fat content. Dark meat has more fat than white meat, but it’s still relatively lean compared to some other meats.

Turkey is lower in saturated fat than many red meats. This makes it a heart-healthy choice when eaten as part of a balanced diet.

If you’re watching your calorie intake, turkey breast is a good option. It’s high in protein but low in calories.

Storing Leftover Turkey Safely

Proper storage of leftover turkey is key to keeping it fresh and safe to eat. Follow these guidelines to get the most out of your leftovers and avoid food waste.

Refrigeration Tips

Put leftover turkey in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. Use shallow containers to help it cool faster. Keep the turkey at 40°F or below.

Wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap or foil. You can also use airtight containers. This prevents drying out and keeps other food smells away.

Eat refrigerated turkey within 3-4 days. After that, it’s best to freeze or toss it.

Reheat turkey to 165°F before eating. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature.

Freezing Guidelines

Freeze turkey if you won’t eat it within 4 days. Remove the bones first – they can make the meat taste funny.

Use freezer bags or airtight containers. Push out as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn.

Label containers with the date. Frozen turkey stays good for up to 4 months.

Thaw frozen turkey in the fridge, not on the counter. This takes about 24 hours per 4-5 pounds.

You can also thaw turkey in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes.

Identifying Spoilage

Check the smell of your leftover turkey. If it has a sour or off odor, throw it out.

Look for changes in color or texture. Slimy or discolored meat is not safe to eat.

Watch for mold growth. Even if you only see a small spot, discard the whole piece.

Trust your instincts. If the turkey looks or smells weird, don’t risk eating it.

When in doubt, throw it out.