Thanksgiving is centered around abundance and indulgence, but with abundance often comes leftovers. Rather than letting those extra turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce languish in the fridge, why not give them a second life?
From hearty soups to savory pies, here’s how to make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers and turn them into delicious recipes that won’t make you sick of eating the same thing repeatedly.
1. Classic Turkey Sandwich with a Twist
A turkey sandwich is a Thanksgiving leftover staple, but there are ways to elevate it. Use your leftover turkey and stuffing to make a gourmet sandwich with cranberry sauce and a smear of gravy. Toast a ciabatta or sourdough bun for extra crunch, add some arugula or lettuce for freshness, and top it off with a slice of brie cheese for an additional layer of flavor.
2. Stuffing-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Take your leftover stuffing and stuff it into halved bell peppers. Top with shredded cheese and bake until the peppers are tender, and the cheese is melted. It’s a great way to turn a side dish into a main course, plus a recipe you can also use in the future to give the old ground beef classic a twist.
3. Leftover Turkey Tacos
Leftover turkey can take a second life when shredded. Make turkey tacos with a Mexican twist. Warm up the turkey with taco seasoning, and serve it in soft corn tortillas or taco shells with your favorite toppings: shredded lettuce, salsa, avocado, and a squeeze of lime. For an added flavor layer, use cranberry sauce and salsa as a unique taco sauce.
4. Thanksgiving Soup
A hearty soup is one of the best ways to repurpose your leftovers. Use your leftover turkey, potatoes, and vegetables as the base. Add some chicken broth and season with thyme, sage, and a touch of cream for richness. Serve with a warm piece of crusty bread for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy day after the Thanksgiving festivities.
5. Turkey and Cranberry Quesadillas
For a quick and easy meal, make turkey and cranberry quesadillas. Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on a tortilla, top with turkey, a sprinkle of cheese, and some arugula or spinach. Fold in half and grill until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy. Serve with a side of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt. If you have any leftover gravy, go ahead and add that too!