Creative Leftover Turkey Recipes

Leftover turkey doesn’t have to feel like a chore. With a little creativity, you can turn what’s left of your holiday meal into completely new, family-friendly dishes that are quick, comforting, and kid-approved. Here are some simple recipe ideas your family will love.

1. Turkey Pot Pie

How to make it:

• Sauté onions, carrots, and peas in butter.

• Stir in leftover turkey and a can of cream of chicken soup (or your own homemade white sauce).

• Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.

• Pour into a pie dish and top with store-bought pie crust or puff pastry.

• Bake at 400°F until golden and bubbly.

  
  

2. Turkey Tacos

How to make it:

• Shred turkey and warm it in a pan with taco seasoning and a splash of broth.

• Serve with tortillas, shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa.

• Add optional toppings: corn, avocado, sour cream, or lime.

  
  

3. Turkey Noodle Soup

How to make it:

• Sauté carrots, celery, and onions.

• Add broth (turkey or chicken), leftover turkey, and egg noodles.

• Season with parsley and a touch of garlic.

• Let simmer until noodles are tender.

  
  

 4. Cheesy Turkey Quesadillas

How to make it:

• Layer shredded turkey and cheese between tortillas.

• Add extras: diced peppers, corn, or black beans.

• Cook in a skillet until crisp and melted.

• Serve with salsa or guacamole.

5. One-Pan Turkey Alfredo Bake

Why families love it: Creamy, filling, and kid-friendly.

How to make it:

• Cook pasta and mix with leftover turkey, Alfredo sauce, and steamed broccoli.

• Top with mozzarella or parmesan.

• Bake at 375°F until the cheese is melted and golden.

  
  

6. Turkey “Leftover Pizza”

How to make it:

• Use a store-bought crust or naan bread.

• Spread Alfredo sauce or barbecue sauce.

• Add turkey, veggies, and cheese.

• Bake until crisp and melty.

  
  

7. Turkey Fried Rice

How to make it:

• Sauté carrots, peas, and onions in oil.

• Add cooked rice, diced turkey, and soy sauce.

• Push rice to one side and scramble two eggs in the same pan.

• Mix and season with sesame oil if you have it.

  
  

8. Turkey Sliders

How to make it:

• Layer turkey, cheese, and stuffing or cranberry sauce onto slider buns.

• Brush tops with butter and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.