5 Delicious Dishes You Can Make with Leftover Turkey from Thanksgiving

After Thanksgiving dinner, the last thing you want to do is waste all those delicious leftovers.

The good news is that turkey is incredibly versatile, and there are many creative ways to use up that extra meat.

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From hearty soups to comforting casseroles, here are five fantastic dishes you can make with leftover turkey to keep the holiday flavors going long after the feast.

1. Turkey and Cranberry Sandwiches

One of the simplest ways to enjoy leftover turkey is in a sandwich. Take slices of turkey and layer them between two slices of your favorite bread. Add a generous dollop of cranberry sauce and a few leaves of lettuce for a tasty, festive twist. You can also spread some mayo, mustard, or even cream cheese for added creaminess. If you're in the mood for something warm, grill the sandwich like a panini for a crispy, melty treat.

Tips:

• Add a slice of cheese (like Swiss or cheddar) to elevate the flavors.
• Try using a baguette or sourdough bread for a different texture.

2. Turkey Soup

Turkey soup is a comforting and easy way to use up not only leftover turkey but also the turkey carcass. Start by simmering the bones in water to make a rich stock. Once your broth is ready, strain out the bones, then add diced leftover turkey, vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, and season with herbs like thyme and rosemary. You can also toss in some pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

Tips:

• If you have any leftover mashed potatoes, stir them in for extra creaminess.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

3. Turkey Pot Pie

A classic comfort food, turkey pot pie is the perfect way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers into a satisfying meal. Make a creamy filling by combining diced turkey, sautéed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and onions), and a velvety gravy or cream sauce. Then, place the mixture in a pie crust and bake until golden brown. The result is a warm, savory pie that everyone will love.

Tips:

• You can use store-bought pie crusts to save time, or make your own for a homemade touch.
• Add a sprinkle of thyme or sage to enhance the savory flavor.

4. Turkey Tacos

Give your leftover turkey a south-of-the-border twist by turning it into tacos. Shred the turkey and sauté it with some taco seasoning, onions, and garlic. Then, fill soft corn or flour tortillas with the turkey mixture, and top with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and avocado. These turkey tacos are an easy way to enjoy a completely different flavor profile using your Thanksgiving leftovers.

Tips:

• Try adding a little chipotle pepper or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• For extra crunch, top with some tortilla chips or slaw.

5. Turkey Salad

For a light, refreshing meal, turn your leftover turkey into a turkey salad. Dice the turkey and mix it with fresh vegetables, like celery, onions, and cucumbers. You can also add fruits like apples or grapes for a sweet contrast. Toss everything with a creamy dressing, such as mayo, Greek yogurt, or a tangy vinaigrette. This salad can be served as a side dish or piled onto a bed of greens for a satisfying lunch.

Tips:

• For an extra crunch, add nuts like walnuts or almonds.
• Experiment with different dressings, like a mustard-mayo mix or ranch dressing, for a unique twist.

If you're looking to make sure your turkey stays fresh for future meals, be sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For longer storage, you can freeze the turkey meat for up to 3 months.

No matter which dish you choose, these recipes are a great way to make sure none of your turkey goes to waste. Whether you're craving comfort food or something lighter, there’s a creative way to enjoy those delicious leftovers. So, next time you're facing a mountain of turkey, give one (or all) of these dishes a try.

Happy cooking and enjoy the leftovers.