15 Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas That Feel Brand New
We all know how great Thanksgiving dinner is, but the real fun begins when you start figuring out what to do with the leftovers. Instead of simply reheating the same dishes, try transforming them into something fresh and exciting. A little imagination can go a long way in turning your turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce into entirely new meals. These recipes take what’s left from your holiday feast and give them a fun, creative twist. They’re easy to make and perfect for using up those leftover ingredients while adding a little variety to your meals.
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Turkey and Cranberry Grilled Cheese
A classic twist on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich, this version adds Thanksgiving leftovers to create a deliciously hearty meal. The turkey provides protein, while the cranberry sauce offers a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory elements.
To prepare, spread a layer of cranberry sauce on two slices of your favorite bread. Layer with sliced turkey and a generous amount of cheese. Grill the sandwich in a pan over medium heat until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Sweet Potato Casserole Pancakes
Transform your sweet potato casserole leftovers into a breakfast treat with these delicious pancakes. The casserole’s sweet, spiced flavors blend beautifully with pancake batter, making for a comforting start to your day.
For the pancakes, combine 1 cup of leftover sweet potato casserole, 1 egg, 1/2 cup of flour, and 1/4 cup of milk. Mix until smooth, then cook on a greased skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Stuffing Muffins
Stuffing can be transformed into individual muffins that are perfect for a quick snack or side dish. These stuffing muffins take your leftovers and turn them into a portable, crispy treat with a soft center.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix 2 cups of leftover stuffing with 1 beaten egg and 1/4 cup of chicken broth. Spoon the mixture into a greased muffin tin and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the tops are golden and crispy.
Turkey Tetrazzini
This creamy pasta casserole is a comforting way to enjoy leftover turkey. The combination of turkey, pasta, and a rich sauce makes it feel like a brand-new dish while using up your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, combine 2 cups of shredded leftover turkey with 3 cups of cooked spaghetti, 1/2 cup of peas, and 1 cup of mushroom sauce. Top with grated cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cranberry BBQ Turkey Sandwich
Add some excitement to your leftovers by making a cranberry BBQ turkey sandwich. The tangy sweetness of cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the smoky BBQ sauce and turkey.
To make the sandwich, spread a layer of cranberry sauce on a slice of bread, add shredded turkey, and drizzle with BBQ sauce. Top with another slice of bread and grill on medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, until the bread is crispy and golden.
Turkey and Spinach Quesadillas
Turn your leftover turkey into a savory quesadilla with fresh spinach and cheese. This quick meal is perfect for lunch or dinner and is easy to make.
In a pan, heat a tortilla over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of leftover turkey, a handful of fresh spinach, and shredded cheese. Fold the tortilla in half and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and the cheese has melted. Serve with sour cream or guacamole.
Pumpkin Soup
Leftover pumpkin puree can be turned into a comforting, velvety soup. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy meal that captures the flavors of Thanksgiving in a new way.
In a pot, combine 2 cups of leftover pumpkin puree with 3 cups of vegetable broth, 1/2 cup of cream, and a pinch of cinnamon. Simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve hot with a drizzle of cream and a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds.
Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry
A quick stir-fry is a great way to use up leftover turkey and vegetables. The soy sauce and ginger bring the dish to life, offering a fresh take on your holiday leftovers.
In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup of leftover turkey, 1 cup of mixed vegetables, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the turkey is heated through. Serve over rice.
Cranberry Relish Swirl Brownies
Give your brownies a Thanksgiving twist by adding leftover cranberry relish. The tartness of the relish complements the rich chocolate, creating a unique dessert that feels festive and fresh.
Prepare a brownie mix according to the instructions on the box, then swirl 1/2 cup of cranberry relish into the batter. Bake according to the package instructions, typically for 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Let cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Leftover Stuffing Waffles
Take your leftover stuffing to the next level by turning it into crispy waffles. This savory dish is a fun and delicious way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Preheat your waffle iron and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon 1/2 cup of leftover stuffing onto the waffle iron and cook for 3-4 minutes, until crispy. Top with a fried egg and a drizzle of gravy for a breakfast or lunch option.
Turkey and Veggie Pot Pie
A pot pie is a great way to use up leftover turkey and vegetables while creating a warm, comforting meal. This recipe is simple to make and is sure to be a family favorite.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, combine 2 cups of leftover turkey, 1 cup of mixed vegetables, 1/2 cup of gravy, and 1/2 cup of cream. Pour the mixture into a pie crust, cover with another crust, and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden.
Turkey Chili
This hearty turkey chili is a great way to repurpose your leftover turkey in a flavorful and warming dish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner after the big holiday feast.
In a large pot, combine 2 cups of leftover turkey, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of kidney beans, and 1 tablespoon of chili powder. Simmer over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Serve with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Bagel Sandwich with Turkey and Cranberry
Turn your leftover turkey into a satisfying breakfast or lunch with this easy bagel sandwich. The soft and chewy texture of the bagel complements the tender turkey, while cranberry sauce adds a pleasant sweetness.
Slice a bagel in half and toast it lightly. Spread a spoonful of cranberry sauce on one half, layer with slices of leftover turkey, and add a slice of cheese if desired. Close the sandwich and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts slightly. Serve warm for a quick and tasty meal.
Turkey Samosa
Add a little spice to your leftovers with crispy turkey samosas. This dish combines the rich flavors of Thanksgiving turkey with the warm spices of Indian cuisine.
In a bowl, mix 1 cup of shredded leftover turkey, 1/2 cup of mashed potatoes, 1/4 teaspoon of curry powder, and a pinch of salt. Place a spoonful of the filling into small samosa wrappers, fold, and seal the edges with water. Deep fry or air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, until golden brown. Serve hot with chutney or a yogurt dipping sauce.
Turkey and Apple Sandwich
For a refreshing twist, pair your leftover turkey with crisp apple slices and cheese in a sandwich. The crunch of the apple and the savory turkey make a perfect combination for lunch or a light dinner.
Spread mayonnaise or mustard on slices of whole-grain bread. Layer with sliced turkey, thin apple slices, and a slice of cheddar cheese. Toast the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted. Serve warm with a side of chips or salad.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.