Thanksgiving is a time for family, feasting, and creating cherished memories around the dinner table. But once the festivities are over, many of us find ourselves faced with an abundance of delicious leftovers. Instead of letting those culinary delights go to waste, why not transform them into exciting new meals?
With a little creativity and some inspiration, you can turn your turkey, stuffing, and all the fixings into a variety of mouthwatering dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 50+ Thanksgiving leftover recipes that will not only help you minimize waste but also keep the spirit of the holiday alive long after the last bite has been enjoyed.
From comforting casseroles to innovative sandwiches, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes!
50+ Tasty Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes to Savor After the Feast
As the Thanksgiving holiday comes to a close, it’s important to remember that the joy of the season can extend beyond the initial feast. With these 50+ Thanksgiving leftover recipes, you can give new life to your holiday meal, ensuring that every delicious bite is savored and appreciated.
From savory casseroles and hearty soups to inventive sandwiches and delightful breakfast options, there are endless possibilities for repurposing your leftovers.
So gather your ingredients, unleash your creativity in the kitchen, and enjoy these fantastic recipes that celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving long after the holiday has passed. Happy cooking!
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
Transform your Thanksgiving turkey and stuffing into a comforting casserole that brings all the best flavors of the holiday together in one dish. This casserole is a perfect way to use up those leftovers while creating a hearty meal for the family.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 3 cups leftover stuffing
- 2 cups leftover gravy
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, stuffing, peas and carrots, and parsley.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the gravy and milk until smooth.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the turkey and stuffing mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
This Turkey and Stuffing Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers. The creamy gravy brings everything together, while the cheese adds a rich, melty topping. It’s an easy and satisfying dish that turns your holiday remnants into a comforting, delicious meal.
Cranberry Sauce Muffins
Leftover cranberry sauce finds a new home in these moist and flavorful muffins. These Cranberry Sauce Muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, adding a sweet-tart twist to a classic muffin recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1 cup leftover cranberry sauce
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, mix together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Gently fold in the cranberry sauce, being careful not to overmix.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cranberry Sauce Muffins are a delicious and inventive way to use up leftover cranberry sauce. The muffins are soft, moist, and bursting with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat that brings a taste of Thanksgiving to your everyday routine.
Mashed Potato Pancakes
Give your leftover mashed potatoes a crispy, golden makeover with these savory Mashed Potato Pancakes. These pancakes are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish, offering a delightful blend of creamy interior and crispy exterior.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, green onions, and beaten egg.
- Add the flour, salt, and pepper, and mix until well combined.
- Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Scoop 1/4 cup portions of the potato mixture and form into patties.
- Fry the patties in the hot oil until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Mashed Potato Pancakes are a fantastic way to reinvent your leftover mashed potatoes. These crispy, cheesy pancakes are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Serve them with a dollop of sour cream or applesauce for a delightful twist on a classic side dish.
Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas
Turn your leftover turkey and cranberry sauce into a fun and flavorful quesadilla. These Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas are quick to prepare and make a delicious, satisfying meal with a unique twist on traditional flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 1 cup leftover cranberry sauce
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1/2 tablespoon of butter.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle 1/4 cup of cheese evenly over the surface.
- Spread 1/4 cup of shredded turkey and 2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce over the cheese.
- Sprinkle a bit of cilantro on top (if using) and then add another 1/4 cup of cheese.
- Top with a second tortilla and press down gently.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottom tortilla is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. Carefully flip the quesadilla and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the second side is golden and the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from skillet and repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Slice each quesadilla into wedges and serve warm.
Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas offer a delightful blend of savory turkey, sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and melted cheese. These quesadillas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, bringing a fresh and exciting twist to your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Sweet Potato and Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Combine your leftover turkey and sweet potatoes in a hearty and comforting Shepherd’s Pie. This dish layers savory turkey and vegetables under a creamy sweet potato topping, creating a warm and satisfying meal perfect for the days following Thanksgiving.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 3 cups leftover sweet potatoes, mashed
- 1 cup leftover gravy
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, combine the shredded turkey, gravy, and broth. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is heated through.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Spread the turkey and vegetable mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Spread the sweet potato mixture over the turkey and vegetables, smoothing it into an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is lightly browned and the filling is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Sweet Potato and Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a rich, flavorful dish that transforms your Thanksgiving leftovers into a comforting casserole. The creamy sweet potatoes perfectly complement the savory turkey and vegetables, making this a meal the whole family will enjoy.
Stuffing Waffles with Gravy
Give your leftover stuffing a crispy, waffle-iron makeover with these Stuffing Waffles. Topped with warm gravy, these waffles make for a savory breakfast or a fun dinner option, adding a delightful crunch to your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups leftover stuffing
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup chicken or turkey broth
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup leftover gravy, warmed
Instructions:
- Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions and grease it well.
- In a large bowl, combine the leftover stuffing, beaten eggs, chicken broth, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
- Scoop about 1 cup of the stuffing mixture onto the center of the preheated waffle iron and spread it out slightly.
- Close the waffle iron and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the waffle is golden brown and crispy.
- Carefully remove the waffle and repeat with the remaining stuffing mixture.
- Serve the stuffing waffles warm, topped with a generous ladle of warmed gravy.
Stuffing Waffles with Gravy offer a unique and crispy twist on traditional stuffing. The waffles are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a delicious and innovative way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers. Topped with warm gravy, they’re sure to become a new post-holiday favorite.
Thanksgiving Leftover Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Thanksgiving Leftover Soup. This recipe combines turkey, vegetables, stuffing, and even mashed potatoes into a comforting soup that captures all the flavors of your holiday feast. It’s an easy and delicious way to use up those leftovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 1 cup leftover stuffing
- 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 cup leftover vegetables (such as green beans, carrots, or peas)
- 6 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup leftover gravy
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the shredded turkey, leftover stuffing, mashed potatoes, and vegetables to the pot.
- Pour in the broth and leftover gravy, stirring to combine.
- Add the dried thyme and sage, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes, until all the ingredients are heated through and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Thanksgiving Leftover Soup is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of your holiday meal in a new and comforting form. The combination of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and vegetables creates a rich and satisfying soup that warms you from the inside out. It’s a delightful and easy way to make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Turkey and Cranberry BBQ Pizza
Transform your Thanksgiving turkey and cranberry sauce into a deliciously unique Turkey and Cranberry BBQ Pizza. This recipe combines the smoky flavor of barbecue sauce with the sweetness of cranberry sauce, creating a mouthwatering pizza that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pizza crust
- 1 cup leftover turkey, shredded
- 1/2 cup leftover cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust instructions (usually around 450°F or 230°C).
- In a small bowl, mix together the cranberry sauce and barbecue sauce until well combined.
- Spread the sauce mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
- Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Distribute the shredded turkey and sliced red onion evenly over the cheese.
- Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh cilantro, if using. Slice and serve hot.
Turkey and Cranberry BBQ Pizza is a fun and flavorful way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers. The combination of tangy barbecue sauce and sweet cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and melty cheese. This pizza is sure to be a hit with the whole family, offering a fresh and tasty twist on holiday leftovers.
Pumpkin Pie Milkshake
Turn your leftover pumpkin pie into a creamy and decadent Pumpkin Pie Milkshake. This recipe blends the rich flavors of pumpkin pie with ice cream and milk, creating a delicious treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 slice leftover pumpkin pie
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Whipped cream for topping
- Crumbled graham crackers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine the slice of pumpkin pie, vanilla ice cream, milk, and ground cinnamon.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the milkshake into glasses.
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of crumbled graham crackers, if desired.
- Serve immediately with a straw and a spoon.
The Pumpkin Pie Milkshake is a delightful way to enjoy your leftover pumpkin pie. The blend of ice cream, milk, and pie creates a rich and creamy milkshake that captures all the best flavors of the dessert. It’s a perfect treat for anyone with a sweet tooth and a wonderful way to use up those extra slices of pie.
Thanksgiving Fried Rice
Give your leftover turkey and veggies a new life with this Thanksgiving Fried Rice. This quick and easy recipe combines your Thanksgiving staples into a flavorful stir-fry, making for a satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s a fun way to use up leftovers while bringing in some international flair!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best)
- 1 cup leftover vegetables (like green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped turkey and leftover vegetables, stirring for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Push the turkey and vegetables to one side of the pan and pour the beaten eggs into the other side. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked, then mix them with the turkey and veggies.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour the soy sauce over the rice and sprinkle in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Thanksgiving Fried Rice is a delightful way to repurpose your holiday leftovers into a quick and flavorful meal. The combination of turkey, vegetables, and rice creates a hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. This recipe not only minimizes waste but also delivers a satisfying meal that your family will love.
Creamy Mashed Potato Cakes
Transform your leftover mashed potatoes into crispy and delicious Creamy Mashed Potato Cakes. This easy recipe adds a bit of crunch while keeping the rich, creamy texture of the potatoes. They make a great side dish or snack, and they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plus extra for coating)
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the leftover mashed potatoes, grated cheese, green onions, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Coat each patty lightly with extra breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the potato cakes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry each cake for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.
Creamy Mashed Potato Cakes offer a wonderful way to utilize your Thanksgiving leftovers creatively. The crispy exterior combined with the rich, creamy filling provides a delightful contrast in textures. These cakes make a perfect side dish or snack, showcasing your mashed potatoes in a new and exciting way.
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Thanksgiving Leftovers
Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into a stunning and nutritious dish with Stuffed Acorn Squash. This recipe features roasted acorn squash halves filled with a savory mixture of turkey, cranberries, nuts, and spices, creating a beautiful presentation and a flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeds removed
- 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 1 cup leftover stuffing
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the acorn squash halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, until tender.
- While the squash is roasting, in a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, leftover stuffing, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup (if using). Mix until well combined.
- Once the squash is tender, remove it from the oven and fill each half generously with the turkey mixture.
- Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until heated through.
- Serve warm, drizzled with extra maple syrup if desired.
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Thanksgiving Leftovers is a delicious and visually appealing way to make the most of your holiday meal remnants. The combination of flavors from the turkey, cranberries, and spices creates a satisfying dish that celebrates the essence of Thanksgiving. This recipe not only provides a hearty meal but also adds a touch of elegance to your table.
Thanksgiving Leftover Quesadillas
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious and crispy dish with Thanksgiving Leftover Quesadillas. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also brings a fun twist to your holiday meal. The combination of turkey, cheese, and cranberry sauce packed between crispy tortillas makes for a satisfying and flavorful snack or meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup leftover cranberry sauce
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream and guacamole for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Place one tortilla in the skillet and layer half of the shredded cheese evenly on one half of the tortilla.
- Top the cheese with a generous portion of shredded turkey and a few spoonfuls of cranberry sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold the tortilla in half over the filling and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the skillet and repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve warm with sour cream and guacamole, if desired.
Thanksgiving Leftover Quesadillas are a delightful way to combine the flavors of your holiday meal into a fun and portable dish. The melty cheese pairs perfectly with the savory turkey and the sweet tang of cranberry sauce, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. These quesadillas are not only quick to make but also perfect for a casual meal or snack, ensuring that no leftovers go to waste.
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Revitalize your Thanksgiving leftovers with a hearty Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash. This recipe brings together turkey, sweet potatoes, and veggies in a savory skillet dish that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. It’s an easy way to create a flavorful and satisfying meal while making good use of your leftovers.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, diced
- 2 cups cooked sweet potatoes, diced (or leftover mashed sweet potatoes)
- 1 cup leftover vegetables (like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or corn)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 eggs (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, cooked turkey, and leftover vegetables. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and starting to crisp.
- If using, create small wells in the hash and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set to your liking, about 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash is a delicious way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers in a nutritious and flavorful dish. The combination of turkey and sweet potatoes, enhanced by the smoky paprika, creates a comforting meal that’s perfect any time of day. This recipe allows for creativity with whatever leftover vegetables you have, making it a versatile option that ensures none of your holiday meal goes to waste.
Thanksgiving Leftover Shepherd’s Pie
Put a hearty twist on your Thanksgiving leftovers with a comforting Thanksgiving Leftover Shepherd’s Pie. This recipe layers shredded turkey and vegetables under a creamy mashed potato topping, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. It’s a great way to transform your leftovers into a cozy family meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
- 1 cup leftover vegetables (like carrots, peas, or corn)
- 1 cup leftover gravy (or chicken broth)
- 4 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, leftover vegetables, gravy, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the turkey mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Spoon the leftover mashed potatoes over the turkey mixture, spreading it out to cover completely. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Thanksgiving Leftover Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and delicious way to give new life to your holiday meal remnants. The combination of turkey, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a hearty dish that the whole family will enjoy. This recipe not only minimizes waste but also provides a warm and satisfying meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!
