After the holiday season, it's not uncommon to find yourself with a stash of leftover turkey in your fridge. While a turkey sandwich is always a classic option, there are plenty of other creative and delicious ways to use up those leftovers. In this blog post, we'll share five quick and easy recipes that will help you transform your leftover turkey into tasty and satisfying meals. From turkey noodle soup to turkey stir fry, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
Turkey noodle soup
This classic comfort food is a great way to use up leftover turkey and veggie scraps. Heat up some broth in a pot and add in shredded turkey, noodles, and any vegetables you have on hand (such as carrots, celery, and onions). Let it simmer for a few minutes until the noodles are cooked, and you've got a warm and satisfying meal. If you want to add some extra flavor, try adding in some herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. You could also throw in some diced potatoes or beans for added texture and nutrients.
Turkey quesadillas
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love. You just need to shred some leftover turkey and mix it with some diced onions, bell peppers, and cheese. Spread the mixture over a tortilla, top with another tortilla, and cook in a pan until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Serve with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole for dipping. If you want to add some extra flair to your quesadillas, try mixing in some diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers for a spicy kick. You could also try using different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or feta, to give your quesadillas some extra flavor.
Turkey pot pie
Pot pie is a delicious and comforting way to use up leftover turkey and vegetables. Simply mix together some shredded turkey, diced vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and potatoes), and a can of cream of chicken soup. Pour the mixture into a pie dish and top with a pie crust. Bake in the oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If you want to switch things up, try using a different type of crust, such as puff pastry or biscuit dough, or mix in some herbs and spices like thyme and rosemary to give your pot pie some extra flavor. You could also opt for different types of vegetables, such as green beans, corn, or bell peppers, to add some variety to your pot pie.
Turkey sliders
Sliders are a fun and portable way to use up your leftover turkey. Simply shred some turkey and mix it with some diced onions and bell peppers. Spread a layer of the mixture onto a small bun or roll, top with some cheese and your choice of condiments (such as mustard, mayonnaise, or BBQ sauce), and bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and the buns are toasty. You could also try adding some diced jalapeños or pineapple for an extra kick of flavor.
Turkey salad
If you're looking for a lighter option, try making a turkey salad with your leftovers. Shred some turkey and mix it with diced vegetables (such as celery, onions, and bell peppers) and a creamy dressing (such as mayonnaise or ranch). Serve on top of a bed of lettuce or as a sandwich. If you want to add some extra protein and nutrients, try mixing in some diced hard-boiled eggs, nuts, or seeds. You could also try using different types of lettuce, such as spinach, arugula, or kale, or using a different type of dressing, such as vinaigrette or a citrus-based dressing, to give your salad some extra flavor.
Turkey chili
Chili is a hearty and satisfying way to use up your leftover turkey. Mix some shredded turkey with some diced onions, bell peppers, and beans (such as kidney, black, or pinto). Add in some diced tomatoes, chili powder, and other spices (such as cumin, coriander, and paprika) and let it simmer until the flavors have melded together. Serve with some diced onions, cheese, and sour cream on top, or with some cornbread on the side.
Turkey stir-fry
Stir-fry is a quick and easy way to use up your leftover turkey and any vegetables you have on hand. Combine shredded turkey with your choice of vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots). Sauté the mixture in a pan with some oil and your choice of stir-fry sauce (such as hoisin, soy sauce, or teriyaki) until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened. Serve over rice or with some noodles on the side.
Turkey pasta
Pasta is always a quick and easy meal, and it's a great way to use up your leftover turkey. Add vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms) of your choice to shredded turkey and mix it together with some creamy sauce (such as Alfredo or carbonara). Toss the mixture with some cooked pasta and serve with some grated cheese on top. If you want to add some extra protein, try mixing in some diced chicken or shrimp.
Turkey sandwiches
This one might seem obvious, but sometimes the simplest solution is the best. Mix shredded turkey with your choice of condiments (such as mayonnaise, mustard, or cranberry sauce) and vegetables (such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions). Serve on your favorite type of bread (such as rye, sourdough, or whole wheat) and enjoy! If you want to switch things up, try using different types of bread (such as a bagel, roll, or wrap) or adding in some avocado or bacon for added flavor and texture.