20 Easy & Delicious Leftover Turkey Recipes Everyone Will Look Forward To
The holiday feast is finished and the dishes are put away. All that’s left is a mountain of turkey in your fridge. Instead of reheating the same old plate (or throwing away what you don’t eat!), turn those leftovers into something fresh and exciting.
These easy, flavor-packed leftover turkey recipes might just outshine the holiday feast itself. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also budget-friendly. A single turkey can stretch into several meals…
- saving you trips to the store
- cutting down on food waste
- and keeping dinner fun and flavorful all week
Here are simple and creative leftover turkey recipes that make every bite count.
Want to save this idea?
Enter your email and I'll send the link straight to your inbox.
Must-Try Leftover Turkey Recipes That Save Money
1. Mini Leftover Turkey Pot Pies
A classic comfort food made mini! Use leftover turkey, frozen veggies, and a store-bought pie crust for an easy meal that feels homemade. Creamy, hearty, and perfect for chilly nights.
Here’s an easy recipe that’s sure to impress >>
Budget Bite: Buy pie crusts in bulk when they’re on sale around the holidays. They freeze well and make budget-friendly bases for countless meals.
2. Turkey Noodle Soup
Swap chicken for turkey in this cozy soup recipe. A warm broth with noodles, carrots, and celery makes the ultimate bowl of comfort food.
Budget Bite: Use the turkey bones to make homemade stock instead of buying cartons of broth. It’s richer in flavor, less expensive, and freezes well.
3. Turkey Tetrazzini
This creamy pasta bake combines turkey, mushrooms, spaghetti, and a rich sauce. A cheesy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Try this budget-friendly recipe. >>
4. Turkey Quesadillas
Layer turkey, cheese, beans, and veggies between tortillas and crisp them up in a skillet. Serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a quick meal. Try this simple recipe.
5. Turkey Salad Sandwiches
Mix diced turkey with mayo, celery, Dijon mustard, apples, and even some dried cranberries. Use this recipe or make it your own with what you have available.
Serve on croissants, bread, crackers, or lettuce wraps for a fresh take on lunch. It’s perfect for cold lunch or when you’re low on time.
Budget Bite: Stretch your protein by adding chopped boiled eggs or chickpeas. Your turkey will go twice as far without anyone noticing.
6. Turkey Chili
Add shredded turkey to your favorite chili recipe. Beans, tomatoes, and spices make it hearty and delicious. Serve it up with cornbread.
Start with this popular recipe.
Budget Bite: Double the recipe and freeze half. Future you will thank you on a busy weeknight (and you won’t need takeout).
7. Turkey Fried Rice
This delicious and simple recipe is an easy way to use turkey and leftover rice. Stir-fry with soy sauce, veggies, and scrambled egg for a fast one-pan weeknight meal.
8. Turkey Enchiladas
Wrap shredded turkey in tortillas. Then, cover with enchilada sauce and cheese and bake. It’s a flavorful and budget-friendly twist on Mexican night.
9. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Layer turkey, gravy, and vegetables in a dish. Then top with leftover mashed potatoes. Bake until golden for a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs dinner. Try this recipe.
Related:
- Affordable Thanksgiving Side Dishes
- Best Ways to Save at Thanksgiving Dinner
- Cheap and Easy Thanksgiving Kids Snacks
10. Leftover Turkey & Stuffing Casserole
Repurpose your leftovers with an easy casserole for you post-Thanksgiving meal. This recipe is easy to make with only three steps.
11. BBQ Turkey Sliders
Mix shredded turkey with barbecue sauce, pile onto slider buns, and top with coleslaw. It’s a fun and tasty party option for lingering houseguests or Thanksgiving parties. Try this awesome recipe.
12. Turkey Stir-Fry
A lighter option! Toss turkey with fresh veggies and a stir-fry sauce for a colorful and quick dinner. Serve over rice or noodles. Try this healthy recipe.
13. Turkey Cobb Salad
Swap chicken for turkey in a Cobb salad loaded with bacon, avocado, boiled eggs, and blue cheese. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy leftovers.
14. Turkey & Ham Baked Pasta
Combine leftover turkey and ham in a cheesy pasta bake. The mix of smoky ham and tender turkey makes this dish extra hearty.
15. Turkey Curry
Simmer turkey in a flavorful curry sauce with coconut milk and spices. Then, serve with rice or naan for an easy global twist. Find the best recipe at easypeasyfoodie.com.
16. Turkey Pizza
Top a pizza crust with sauce, turkey, spinach, and mozzarella for a fun and delicious leftover makeover. Try this fun take on pizza night.
Budget Bite: Skip delivery night. Homemade pizza costs a fraction of takeout and is a fun way to let kids help in the kitchen.
17. Turkey Ramen
Give instant ramen an upgrade! Add turkey, veggies, and a soft-boiled egg to make it hearty and filling. Here’s the full recipe.
18. Turkey Hash
Sauté turkey with diced potatoes, onions, and peppers. Then, top with a fried egg for the ultimate brunch dish. Try this recipe.
Related: Cheap Breakfast Ideas on the Go
19. Turkey & Gravy Poutine
Use leftover turkey and gravy to make a comfort food favorite. Pour hot gravy over fries (or roasted potatoes) and sprinkle with cheese curds. Add shredded turkey on top for a decadent leftover meal.
20. Turkey Quinoa Bowl
Swap pasta or bread with quinoa for a gluten-free, protein-packed bowl. Add roasted veggies, turkey, and a drizzle of olive oil. Or try this recipe with cranberry dressing.
Related: Tasty Cheap Thanksgiving Appetizers
Think ahead about more clever ways to save at Christmas this year!
What’s Next?
Ready to grow your wealth? Sign up below and become part of our rapidly growing community of women taking charge of their finances.
Don’t forget to pin these Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe ideas to Pinterest for later!
