30+ Quick and Healthy Leftover Turkey Lunch Recipes to Savor

After the holiday feasts are over and the last of the mashed potatoes have been enjoyed, many of us find ourselves with a fridge full of leftover turkey.

While it’s tempting to just reheat the same meal, why not get creative and transform those leftovers into something new and exciting?

Turkey is a versatile protein that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and salads to sandwiches and casseroles.

In this blog, we’ve compiled over 30 delicious leftover turkey lunch recipes that will help you enjoy the savory flavors of turkey long after the holidays.

Whether you’re craving something light and healthy, or a hearty, comforting dish, there’s a recipe here for every taste.

So, grab that leftover turkey and let’s get cooking!

30+ Quick and Healthy Leftover Turkey Lunch Recipes to Savor

Leftover turkey doesn’t have to be boring!

With these 30+ leftover turkey lunch recipes, you can enjoy a wide range of dishes that are quick, easy, and flavorful.

Whether you want to make a light salad, a comforting soup, or a creative sandwich, these recipes are sure to keep your taste buds happy and make sure nothing goes to waste.

Next time you have turkey leftovers, try one of these recipes for a fresh, new twist on your holiday meal.

Turkey Avocado Wrap with Spicy Mayo

This Turkey Avocado Wrap with Spicy Mayo is a fresh and satisfying way to use up leftover turkey. With creamy avocado, crisp lettuce, and a hint of spice, this wrap is as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether for a work lunch or a quick weekend meal, this wrap will keep you fueled without feeling heavy.

Ingredients:

• 1 large tortilla or wrap
• 1 cup leftover turkey, shredded
• ½ avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup shredded lettuce
• ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• ½ tsp sriracha or hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha until well combined. Adjust spiciness to your liking.
2. Lay the tortilla flat and spread a thin layer of the spicy mayo across it.
3. Add shredded turkey down the center of the wrap.
4. Layer the avocado slices, shredded lettuce, and cherry tomatoes on top of the turkey.
5. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to the top.
7. Slice in half, secure with toothpicks if desired, and enjoy!

This Turkey Avocado Wrap with Spicy Mayo adds a light, healthy twist to your leftover turkey. The spiciness of the mayo pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado and fresh veggies, creating a balanced and delicious lunch. It’s easy to make and highly customizable, so feel free to add in other favorite ingredients like cheese, sprouts, or cucumbers!

Turkey & Cranberry Salad Sandwich

The Turkey & Cranberry Salad Sandwich takes the classic chicken salad and gives it a Thanksgiving makeover. With tender turkey, tart cranberry sauce, and crunchy celery, this sandwich is full of textures and flavors that make each bite memorable. Perfect for a quick lunch, this sandwich is a simple yet delicious way to use your leftover turkey.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover turkey, chopped
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tbsp cranberry sauce
• 1 tbsp chopped celery
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 slices of bread (whole grain or your favorite type)
• Optional: lettuce leaves, for extra crunch

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and cranberry sauce until smooth.
2. Add in the chopped turkey and celery, stirring until everything is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread the turkey mixture evenly onto one slice of bread.
4. Add lettuce leaves if desired, then top with the second slice of bread.
5. Cut in half and serve immediately.

This Turkey & Cranberry Salad Sandwich combines sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in one satisfying bite. The cranberry sauce adds a unique twist, giving a hint of sweetness that complements the savory turkey. It’s a delicious, nostalgic way to use up holiday leftovers and makes a fantastic lunch that’s easy to prepare and customize!

Turkey & Sweet Potato Quesadilla

For a fun and creative lunch option, try the Turkey & Sweet Potato Quesadilla! This quesadilla is filled with leftover turkey, mashed sweet potatoes, and gooey melted cheese, resulting in a hearty and comforting meal. It’s a great way to enjoy familiar holiday flavors in a new format that’s kid-friendly and easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 large flour tortilla
• ½ cup leftover turkey, shredded
• ¼ cup mashed sweet potatoes
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
• Cooking spray or 1 tsp butter

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or butter.
2. Spread the mashed sweet potatoes over half of the tortilla.
3. Layer with shredded turkey, cheddar cheese, and green onions, if using.
4. Fold the tortilla in half over the filling.
5. Place the quesadilla in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from the skillet, slice into wedges, and serve warm.

This Turkey & Sweet Potato Quesadilla is a flavorful, comforting lunch that brings new life to your holiday leftovers. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes, savory turkey, and melty cheddar cheese makes it irresistibly delicious. Quick and easy to make, this quesadilla is perfect for busy days when you need a satisfying, hot meal in minutes.

Turkey Pesto Panini

This Turkey Pesto Panini is a warm, melty sandwich that brings together the savory taste of turkey with the fresh, herby flavor of pesto. Adding mozzarella cheese and a bit of sun-dried tomato gives this panini a Mediterranean twist, making it a gourmet-level lunch that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for satisfying a mid-day craving, this panini turns leftovers into a delightful hot meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of sourdough or ciabatta bread
• 1 cup leftover turkey, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp pesto sauce
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2-3 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• Butter or olive oil spray for grilling

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press or skillet over medium heat.
2. Spread pesto sauce on one side of each bread slice.
3. Layer turkey, mozzarella cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes on one slice, then top with the second slice of bread, pesto side down.
4. Butter the outside of the sandwich or spray with olive oil.
5. Place in the panini press or skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
6. Slice in half and enjoy!

This Turkey Pesto Panini combines classic holiday flavors with a Mediterranean flair, creating a hot, melty, and irresistible sandwich. The fresh pesto and sun-dried tomatoes add an exciting twist, making this a gourmet-level lunch that’s quick to assemble. Perfect for using up turkey, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.

Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers

These Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers make for a nutritious and satisfying lunch that’s loaded with flavor. Combining leftover turkey, fresh spinach, and savory seasonings in roasted bell peppers, this meal is as eye-catching as it is delicious. Packed with protein and veggies, this low-carb option is perfect for a wholesome midday pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

• 2 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup leftover turkey, shredded
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Drizzle bell pepper halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together the turkey, spinach, and cheese.
4. Stuff each bell pepper half with the turkey mixture.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

These Turkey & Spinach Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and healthy way to enjoy leftover turkey. The tender bell peppers, melted cheese, and flavorful turkey filling come together to create a meal that’s both hearty and light. This recipe is perfect for those who want a nutritious, low-carb option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Curried Turkey Salad Lettuce Wraps

If you’re craving something light and full of exotic flavors, Curried Turkey Salad Lettuce Wraps are a perfect choice. With creamy yogurt, mild curry spices, and a touch of sweetness from raisins or apple, these wraps are refreshing and filling. They’re ideal for a healthy, flavorful lunch that doesn’t weigh you down.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover turkey, chopped
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• ½ tsp curry powder
• 1 tbsp raisins or diced apple
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Romaine or butter lettuce leaves, for wrapping

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise) with curry powder until well mixed.
2. Add the chopped turkey and raisins (or diced apple), and stir until the turkey is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spoon the curried turkey mixture into individual lettuce leaves.
4. Roll or fold the lettuce wraps and serve immediately.

Curried Turkey Salad Lettuce Wraps are a refreshing and healthy way to enjoy turkey leftovers with a flavorful twist. The combination of curry and a touch of sweetness from the fruit adds complexity to this simple meal. These wraps are perfect for a light lunch, especially when you want something easy to make, nutritious, and full of bold, delicious flavors.

Turkey and Apple Grilled Cheese

The Turkey and Apple Grilled Cheese takes the classic comfort food to the next level by adding juicy apple slices and tangy cheddar cheese to the mix. The sweet and savory combination of turkey and apples, along with the crispy, golden-brown bread, creates a satisfying, flavorful sandwich that’s perfect for a cozy lunch.

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of sourdough or whole wheat bread
• 1 cup leftover turkey, thinly sliced
• ½ apple, thinly sliced (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith)
• 2 slices of cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions:

1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard (optional) on the unbuttered side of one slice of bread.
3. Layer the turkey, apple slices, and cheddar cheese on top of the mustard-coated slice of bread. Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side up.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sandwich in the skillet.
5. Grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Remove from the skillet, slice, and serve hot.

This Turkey and Apple Grilled Cheese is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a delightful and comforting lunch. The crisp apples add a refreshing crunch that complements the rich turkey and melted cheddar. It’s an easy-to-make, gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey.

Turkey Caesar Salad Wrap

Transform your leftover turkey into a fresh and filling lunch with this Turkey Caesar Salad Wrap. Featuring crisp romaine lettuce, creamy Caesar dressing, and tender turkey, this wrap delivers all the classic Caesar salad flavors in a handheld, easy-to-eat form. It’s a great way to enjoy a salad without the fuss of a bowl!

Ingredients:

• 1 large tortilla or wrap
• 1 cup leftover turkey, shredded or sliced
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 2 tbsp Caesar dressing
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, toss the romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing until the lettuce is evenly coated.
2. Lay the tortilla flat and add the turkey on the center of the wrap.
3. Spoon the dressed lettuce on top of the turkey.
4. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh cracked pepper.
5. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly from the bottom up.
6. Slice in half and serve immediately.

The Turkey Caesar Salad Wrap is a fresh and satisfying way to repurpose leftover turkey into a delicious lunch. The crisp lettuce and creamy dressing elevate the turkey, while the Parmesan adds a savory touch. It’s a light yet hearty option that’s perfect for a quick and easy meal with minimal prep.

Turkey and Vegetable Frittata

A Turkey and Vegetable Frittata is a versatile and hearty meal that makes great use of leftover turkey. Packed with veggies like bell peppers, spinach, and onions, this frittata is a wholesome and satisfying option for lunch. It’s easy to customize with any vegetables you have on hand and makes for a great make-ahead meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover turkey, chopped
• 6 large eggs
• ½ cup milk or cream
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the vegetables and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
3. Add the leftover turkey to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the turkey and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and transfer the skillet to the oven.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
8. Let the frittata cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

This Turkey and Vegetable Frittata is a delicious, filling, and nutritious way to enjoy leftover turkey. Packed with protein and vegetables, it’s a great option for a balanced lunch. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this frittata is easy to make and perfect for using up leftover turkey in a creative way.

Turkey and Cranberry Quesadilla

The Turkey and Cranberry Quesadilla combines the classic Thanksgiving flavors of turkey and cranberry sauce in a crispy, cheesy quesadilla. The savory turkey and tangy cranberry sauce meld beautifully with the melted cheese, creating a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch. This recipe is a fun twist on a classic favorite!

Ingredients:

• 2 flour tortillas
• 1 cup leftover turkey, shredded
• 2 tbsp cranberry sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
2. Place one tortilla in the skillet and spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce over it.
3. Add the shredded turkey on top, then sprinkle with cheese. Place the second tortilla on top.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing down lightly, until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
5. Slice into wedges and serve immediately.

The Turkey and Cranberry Quesadilla is a delightful way to use up leftover turkey while enjoying a comforting lunch. The combination of savory turkey and sweet cranberry sauce inside a crispy tortilla is a perfect blend of flavors. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a satisfying midday meal.

Turkey Sweet Potato Hash

This Turkey Sweet Potato Hash is a hearty and nutritious lunch option, perfect for using up leftover turkey. The caramelized sweet potatoes and savory turkey are complemented by onions, bell peppers, and a touch of spices, making it a flavorful and filling meal. Top it with a fried egg for extra protein and richness!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover turkey, diced
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 eggs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet potato and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potato is tender and slightly crispy.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the leftover turkey, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the turkey is heated through.
4. Optional: In a separate pan, fry two eggs to your desired doneness.
5. Serve the hash with the fried eggs on top for a complete, satisfying meal.

This Turkey Sweet Potato Hash is a flavorful, hearty meal that makes the most of leftover turkey. The sweet potatoes bring a delicious sweetness to the dish, while the turkey and spices add savory depth. Topped with a fried egg, this dish is perfect for a filling and healthy lunch.

Turkey and Avocado Wrap

The Turkey and Avocado Wrap is a simple and fresh lunch that combines lean leftover turkey with creamy avocado and crunchy veggies. With a tangy dressing to tie it all together, this wrap is a light yet satisfying option for lunch. It’s a great way to incorporate healthy fats and protein into a delicious and easy-to-make meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 large whole wheat tortilla
• 1 cup leftover turkey, sliced
• ½ avocado, sliced
• 1 cup mixed greens or lettuce
• 1 small tomato, sliced
• 1-2 tbsp Greek yogurt or ranch dressing
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread Greek yogurt or ranch dressing in the center of the tortilla.
3. Layer the sliced turkey, avocado, mixed greens, and tomato on top.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Fold the sides of the tortilla in, then roll it tightly from the bottom up.
6. Slice the wrap in half and serve immediately.

The Turkey and Avocado Wrap is a refreshing and nutritious lunch that’s packed with protein and healthy fats. The creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the savory turkey, and the fresh vegetables add a satisfying crunch. This wrap is not only delicious but also quick to make, making it the perfect go-to meal for a busy day.

Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that combines all the flavors of a classic turkey pot pie but in a hearty, soup form. This dish is a great way to turn your leftover turkey into something warm and filling, with vegetables, a creamy broth, and a delicious biscuit topping that mimics a pot pie crust.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded or diced
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cups chicken or turkey broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2-3 pre-made biscuits, crumbled (or homemade if preferred)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to create a roux. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth while stirring, followed by the cream. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
4. Stir in the shredded turkey and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crumbled biscuits.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that transforms your leftover turkey into a warm and filling meal. The addition of biscuits on top adds a delightful, biscuit-like texture reminiscent of a pot pie crust. It’s perfect for a chilly afternoon and can be easily customized with whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Pita

A Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Pita is a fresh and healthy lunch option that combines tender turkey with leafy greens and a tangy dressing, all wrapped up in a soft pita. It’s a great way to enjoy your leftover turkey in a light, handheld meal that’s full of flavor and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole wheat pita
• 1 cup leftover turkey, sliced or shredded
• 1 cup fresh spinach or mixed greens
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 2 tbsp tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cut the pita in half to form two pockets.
2. Spread tzatziki sauce or Greek yogurt inside each pita pocket.
3. Layer the leftover turkey, spinach, cucumber, and tomato inside the pita.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately for a fresh, light lunch.

This Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Pita is an easy and healthy lunch option that takes advantage of leftover turkey. The freshness of the spinach and cucumber, combined with the creamy tzatziki, creates a delicious contrast to the tender turkey. It’s a quick and nutritious meal that is satisfying without being heavy.

Turkey and Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

This Turkey and Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a fresh, vibrant lunch that’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the turkey, while the tangy lemon vinaigrette brings everything together in a light, refreshing dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover turkey, chopped
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup mixed greens or arugula
• 1 small cucumber, sliced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, avocado, tomatoes, mixed greens, and cucumber.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the vinaigrette.
3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve immediately for a fresh, satisfying lunch.

The Turkey and Avocado Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a light, nutritious, and delicious lunch that incorporates your leftover turkey in a refreshing way. The creamy avocado and turkey are complemented by the crisp veggies and bright lemon vinaigrette. It’s an ideal choice for a healthy, quick lunch that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!