20 Leftover Turkey Recipes That Will Make You Thankful For Extras

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I’ve attached a video for every recipe below from my favorite home cooks.

Are you looking for tasty ways to use up your leftover turkey? You’re in luck! There are many delicious recipes that can transform your extra turkey into new and exciting meals. From cozy casseroles to hearty soups, these leftover turkey recipes will make you excited to eat turkey all over again.

Don’t let that turkey go to waste! With a little creativity, you can turn your leftovers into mouthwatering dishes that your whole family will love. Get ready to discover some easy and yummy ideas that will make your post-holiday meals just as good as the big feast itself.

Turkey Sandwiches

You’ll love this tasty way to use up your leftover turkey! Here’s what you need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices sourdough bread
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2-3 slices leftover turkey
  • 1/3 cup stuffing
  • 1/3 cup mashed potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons cranberry sauce

Directions:

  1. Toast the bread slices until golden brown.

  2. Spread mayonnaise on both pieces of toast.

  3. Layer turkey slices on one piece of bread.

  4. Add a scoop of stuffing on top of the turkey.

  5. Spread mashed potatoes over the stuffing.

  6. Spoon cranberry sauce on top.

  7. Place the second piece of toast on top.

  8. Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy!

Feel free to mix it up with different breads or toppings. Try adding lettuce, cheese, or gravy for extra flavor. You can also warm up the sandwich in a skillet or panini press for a crispy, melty treat.

Turkey Soup

You can make a tasty soup with your leftover turkey. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups chopped leftover turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 6 cups turkey or chicken broth
  • 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until soft.

  2. Add the broth and bring to a boil.

  3. Stir in the turkey, noodles, and thyme.

  4. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the noodles are tender.

  5. Season with salt and pepper.

Your soup is ready! Serve it hot and enjoy your comforting meal.

Turkey Pot Pie

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/3 cup flour
  • 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.

  2. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft.

  3. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.

  4. Slowly whisk in broth and milk. Cook until the sauce thickens.

  5. Add turkey and mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.

  6. Line a pie dish with one crust. Pour in the filling.

  7. Cover with the second crust. Cut slits for steam to escape.

  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting turkey pot pie!

Turkey Tetrazzini

You’ll need:

  • Leftover turkey, chopped
  • Spaghetti noodles
  • Mushrooms, sliced
  • Butter
  • Flour
  • Milk
  • Chicken broth
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper
  • Frozen peas
  • Sliced almonds (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the spaghetti and set aside.

  2. Sauté mushrooms in butter until tender.

  3. Make a creamy sauce by whisking flour, milk, and broth in a pan until thick.

  4. Add Parmesan, salt, and pepper to the sauce.

  5. Mix the sauce with turkey, pasta, mushrooms, and peas in a baking dish.

  6. Top with more cheese and almonds if you like.

  7. Bake at 350°F for about 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Your Turkey Tetrazzini is ready! It’s a yummy way to use up that leftover turkey. The creamy pasta and veggies make it a filling meal your family will love.

Turkey Chili

Here’s a tasty way to use up your leftover turkey!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil
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Directions:

  1. Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

  2. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  3. Sprinkle in the chili powder and cumin. Stir to coat the vegetables.

  4. Add the turkey, tomatoes, beans, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious turkey chili!

You can top it with cheese, sour cream, or avocado if you’d like. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day!

Turkey Enchiladas

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
  • 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • Sour cream for topping

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Mix the turkey, onion, green chiles, and half the cheese in a bowl.

Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 30 seconds. This makes them easier to roll.

Dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce. Add some turkey mixture and roll up. Place in a greased baking dish.

Pour the remaining sauce over the enchiladas. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.

Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Top with cilantro and sour cream before serving.

Enjoy your tasty turkey enchiladas! They’re a great way to use up that leftover turkey.

Turkey Quesadillas

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Leftover shredded turkey
  • Tortillas
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Salsa
  • Optional: black beans, taco seasoning, onions, jalapeños

Directions:

  1. Warm a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Place a tortilla in the skillet. Sprinkle cheese on half of the tortilla.

  3. Add about 1/3 cup of shredded turkey on top of the cheese.

  4. Spoon some salsa over the turkey. Add any optional ingredients you like.

  5. Fold the empty half of the tortilla over the filled side.

  6. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.

  7. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 2 minutes.

  8. Remove from heat, let cool slightly, and cut into wedges.

  9. Serve with extra salsa or sour cream for dipping.

You can easily customize these quesadillas. Try adding different cheeses or veggies for variety. They’re a quick and tasty way to use up your leftover turkey!

Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 3 cups leftover cooked turkey, diced
  • 2 cups leftover gravy
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
  • 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Now, let’s make this yummy pie!

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Mix the turkey, gravy, and vegetables in a bowl. Spread this mixture in the baking dish.

Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly. Sprinkle cheese on top.

Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts and the filling bubbles.

Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your tasty Turkey Shepherd’s Pie!

Turkey Curry

Here’s a tasty way to use up your leftover turkey!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, cubed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 2 tsp curry powder
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

  2. Add garlic and curry powder. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Pour in coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.

  4. Add turkey and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.

  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.

Your curry is ready! This dish is quick, easy, and full of flavor. It’s a great way to give new life to your leftover turkey.

Turkey Fried Rice

Here’s a tasty way to use up your leftover turkey!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced
  • 2 eggs
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
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Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

  2. Add onions and cook until soft, about 2 minutes.

  3. Toss in the turkey and frozen veggies. Stir-fry for 3 minutes.

  4. Push everything to one side of the pan. Crack eggs into the empty space and scramble.

  5. Mix the eggs with the other ingredients. Add the rice and stir well.

  6. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil if using. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

  7. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring often, until the rice is hot and slightly crispy.

Your turkey fried rice is ready to serve! Enjoy this quick and easy meal that transforms your leftovers into something new and delicious.

Turkey Noodle Casserole

You’ll need these ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked turkey, diced
  • 12 oz egg noodles
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

  2. Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

  3. Melt butter in a large skillet. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

  4. Mix in turkey, soup, milk, sour cream, peas, and seasonings.

  5. Stir in the cooked noodles until everything is well combined.

  6. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.

  7. Bake for 20-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your comforting turkey noodle casserole!

Turkey Tacos

You’ll love these tasty turkey tacos! They’re a great way to use up leftover turkey.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded leftover turkey
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 8 taco shells
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup salsa

Directions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add the shredded turkey and taco seasoning. Stir to combine.

  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is heated through.

  4. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.

  5. Fill each shell with the seasoned turkey mixture.

  6. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and salsa.

  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious turkey tacos!

These tacos are quick to make and full of flavor. You can easily customize them with your favorite toppings.

Turkey Hash

Here’s a tasty way to use up your leftover turkey:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups diced leftover turkey
  • 2 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 cup gravy or cream

Directions:

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add potatoes and cook until they start to brown, stirring often.

  3. Toss in onions and bell peppers. Cook until veggies are soft.

  4. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

  5. Mix in the turkey. Stir well to combine everything.

  6. Season with salt and pepper.

  7. If using, pour in gravy or cream for extra flavor and moisture.

  8. Cook for about 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is hot.

Your turkey hash is ready! Serve it up and enjoy your reimagined leftovers. It’s great for breakfast with a fried egg on top or as a quick dinner.

Turkey Stuffed Peppers

You’ll need:

  • 4 bell peppers
  • 2 cups leftover turkey, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Let’s get cooking!

  1. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.

  2. Mix the turkey, rice, salsa, half the cheese, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

  3. Stuff the peppers with the mixture.

  4. Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.

  5. Bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melty.

Your turkey stuffed peppers are ready! They’re a tasty way to use up that leftover holiday turkey. The peppers add a fresh crunch, while the cheese makes everything gooey and delicious.

You can switch things up by using different types of cheese or adding some spinach to the mix. Feel free to get creative with your stuffing!

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Turkey Croquettes

Got leftover turkey? Try these tasty turkey croquettes! They’re a great way to use up extra meat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, minced
  • 1 cup mashed potatoes
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

Directions:

  1. Mix the turkey, mashed potatoes, onion, parsley, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.

  2. Form the mixture into small balls or oval shapes.

  3. Place the croquettes on a plate and chill in the fridge for at least 3 hours.

  4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  5. Dip each croquette in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs to coat.

  6. Place the coated croquettes on a baking sheet.

  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and heated through.

  8. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy turkey croquettes!

These croquettes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. You can serve them with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce.

Turkey Nachos

Here’s a tasty way to use up your leftover turkey!

Ingredients:

  • Tortilla chips
  • Shredded leftover turkey
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • Black beans, drained
  • Corn kernels
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced jalapeños
  • Chopped green onions
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa or hot sauce

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet.

  3. Layer turkey, cheese, beans, and corn over the chips.

  4. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts.

  5. Take the nachos out of the oven.

  6. Top with tomatoes, jalapeños, and green onions.

  7. Serve with sour cream and salsa on the side.

Enjoy your turkey nachos! They’re perfect for a quick snack or casual meal. You can adjust the toppings to your liking.

Turkey Wraps

You’ll need:

  • Leftover turkey, sliced
  • Large tortillas or wraps
  • Cream cheese, softened
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

  1. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each tortilla.

  2. Add a spoonful of cranberry sauce and spread it over the cream cheese.

  3. Layer on some sliced turkey, lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers.

  4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper if you like.

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

  6. Cut the wrap in half diagonally and serve.

You can mix it up by adding different veggies or using flavored cream cheese. These wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. They’re also great for picnics or packed lunches.

Turkey Stir-Fry

You’ll need:

  • 2 cups leftover turkey, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, peas)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Here’s how to make it:

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir for 30 seconds.

Toss in the bell pepper, onion, and mixed veggies. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.

Add the turkey and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Mix soy sauce, cornstarch, and chicken broth in a small bowl. Pour this sauce into the skillet.

Stir everything together and cook for 2 more minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve your tasty turkey stir-fry hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy your quick and easy meal!

Turkey Pasta Bake

Here’s a tasty way to use up your leftover turkey! This pasta bake is easy and delicious.

Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked turkey, chopped
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft, about 3-4 minutes.

  4. Add the garlic and bell pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes.

  5. Stir in the turkey, tomato sauce, chicken broth, and basil. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  6. Mix the pasta with the turkey mixture in a large baking dish.

  7. Sprinkle the cheeses over the top.

  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Turkey Pasta Bake!