14 Delicious Leftover Turkey Recipes to Try After Thanksgiving
If you’re wondering what to do with leftover turkey after a big holiday feast, you’re not alone. Instead of eating plain reheated turkey for days, why not turn it into something delicious? With a little creativity, those extra slices can become flavorful soups, hearty sandwiches, satisfying casseroles, and more. In this post, we’re diving into 14 leftover turkey recipes that’ll make you excited for day-two meals and beyond.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups turkey or chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or half-and-half
- Salt, pepper, and thyme to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in butter until soft.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
- Slowly add broth while stirring.
- Add turkey and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in milk and season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
Notes
- Refrigerate quickly: Store turkey in an airtight container in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.
- Use within 3–4 days: After that, move to the freezer.
- Freeze in portions: Wrap in foil or freezer bags for easy thawing later.
- Add moisture: Since reheated turkey can dry out, use creamy sauces, broths, or gravies in your recipes.