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Home » Recipe Collections

15 Leftover Turkey Recipes That Are Even Better Than the Main Event

Published: Oct 8, 2024 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Leftover turkey recipes don’t have to feel like an afterthought—in fact, they can be even better than the main event! These recipes are great for turning your holiday leftovers into meals that you’ll actually look forward to. Whether you're working with light or dark meat, these ideas make the most of that turkey with bold flavors and smart combinations. Say goodbye to boring leftovers and hello to something that’s not only simple to make, but also totally delicious.

Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole on two stacks of wooden bowls.
Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

An image of Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie.
Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

If you’re tired of turkey sandwiches, try this leftover turkey shepherd’s pie. It uses turkey, mashed potatoes, and a mix of veggies with a splash of Guinness for a rich and savory meal. It’s a perfect way to repurpose your leftovers into something hearty and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

A slice of turkey pot pie in a white plate.
Leftover Turkey Pot Pie. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This turkey pot pie brings all your leftovers under a light, flaky puff pastry crust for an easy, comforting meal. It’s a great way to enjoy turkey in a new, flavorful way.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

Maple Bacon Turkey Sliders

Close-up image of maple bacon turkey sliders in a plate.
Maple Bacon Turkey Sliders. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These turkey sliders with bacon, cheese, and onion are a fun alternative to beef sliders. Packed with sweet and savory flavors, they’re sure to be a hit and a great way to use up leftover turkey.
Get the Recipe: Maple Bacon Turkey Sliders

Smoked Turkey Quesadilla

Close-up image of smoked turkey quesadilla ina pan.
Smoked Turkey Quesadilla. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a quick and flavorful meal, this Texas-style Smoked Turkey Quesadilla hits the spot. With cheese, turkey, and salsa, it’s a fast, tasty dish perfect for using up leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Quesadilla

Creamy Mushroom Kale Turkey Soup

A bowl of Creamy Mushroom Kale Turkey Soup.
Creamy Mushroom Kale Turkey Soup. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

If you're looking to use up your leftover turkey in a fresh way, this creamy mushroom kale turkey soup is a flavorful option. With white wine, garlic, mushrooms, and more, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Kale Turkey Soup

Turkey Dumpling Soup

A bowl of Turkey Dumpling Soup.
Turkey Dumpling Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This Turkey and Dumplings recipe is a comforting way to enjoy leftover turkey. It’s hearty, easy to make, and perfect for a cozy family dinner that’s a step up from the usual post-holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Dumpling Soup

Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole

Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole on two stacks of wooden bowls.
Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Rescue your leftover turkey with this wild rice casserole! With just a few ingredients and your turkey, this easy casserole comes together quickly and makes a filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Casserole

Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole

Top view of Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole.
Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into a hearty casserole that's quick to make and packed with turkey, all in one dish. This casserole lets you enjoy the best parts of Thanksgiving again without any extra hassle.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Thanksgiving Casserole

Hot Turkey Sandwich

Front view image of canadian hot turkey sandwich in a white plate garnished with green peas.
Hot Turkey Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

When you’re overwhelmed with leftovers, this hot turkey sandwich might be the answer. With meaty gravy, green peas, and more, it’s a diner-style dish that turns your turkey into a cozy and satisfying meal that’s hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Hot Turkey Sandwich

Turkey à la King with Puff Pastry

Top view of Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto.
Turkey à la King with Puff Pastry. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turkey à la King is an easy-to-make classic dish that combines leftover turkey with a creamy sauce, veggies, and a puff pastry crust. It’s a great way to transform your turkey into something comforting and filling.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King with Puff Pastry

Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sandwich. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

If you’re craving a unique turkey sandwich, try this Leftover Turkey Cranberry Chaffle sandwich. It combines Thanksgiving flavors with a crispy, flavorful twist that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This turkey sweet potato skillet is a quick and healthy way to use up leftover turkey. With sweet potatoes, black beans, peppers, and greens, it’s a flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sweet Potato Skillet

Turkey & Apple Panini

Turkey & Apple Panini. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Make a bistro-quality sandwich with this Turkey & Apple Panini. With balanced flavors and hearty ingredients, this sandwich brings together textures and tastes for a perfect leftover turkey meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Cornbread Stuffing

Cornbread Stuffing. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This cornbread stuffing is a staple at any Thanksgiving table. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, offering the traditional flavors you love in a simple and delicious side dish.
Get the Recipe: Cornbread Stuffing

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Instead of a soup, why not try these Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto? Simple to make and loaded with flavor, this dish turns your turkey into a satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Genius Recipes for Leftovers

Three Leftover Ham, Broccoli and Cheese Crescent Cups on a stack of plates.
Leftover Ham, Broccoli and Cheese Crescent Cups. Photo Credit: xoxoBella

These genius leftover recipes will turn yesterday’s meals into something brand new! Delicious, creative, and perfect for cutting waste while adding flavor.

Read it Here: 20 Genius Recipes for Using Up Leftovers That Feel Brand New

BBQ Leftovers Recipes

Brisket chili in a bowl topede with green onions and avocado.
Brisket Chili. Photo Credit: Running to the Kitchen

BBQ leftovers just got a major upgrade! These recipes will transform your leftovers into mouthwatering meals you'll crave, again and again.

Read it Here: 16 Recipes That Will Change How You See BBQ Leftovers Forever

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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