11 Ideas For Thanksgiving Leftovers

As the post-holiday haze settles in, a treasure trove of leftover food remains, begging to be repurposed into something new and exciting. The usual suspects – turkey sandwiches with cranberry and mashed potato fillings, or cold pumpkin pie – are due for an update. Freshness is key to longevity, after all, so why not breathe new life into your Thanksgiving leftovers?

Here are eleven innovative ideas to get you started: from stuffing-stuffed mushrooms to turkey stir-fry, the possibilities are endless. For instance, consider transforming turkey into crostinis, or using leftover veggies in a hearty pasta bake. The options are as varied as they are delicious, and with these creative ideas, you’ll be saying goodbye to bland leftovers and hello to a more exciting culinary landscape.

Ideas For Turkey Leftovers

#1. Turkey Crostinis

Transform humble bread into an indulgent experience by toasting crostinis, sliced French bread, or rolls until crispy. Then, top with a delicate layer of mayonnaise or mustard, adding a burst of flavor from chopped chives and shredded turkey seasoned with salt and pepper. To take it up a notch, add some creamy avocado slices or crumbly bacon bits for an unparalleled delight.

#2. Turkey Stir-fry

When it comes to whipping up a rapid yet satisfying stir-fry, consider making turkey the star of the show. To add some extra oomph, incorporate Thanksgiving leftovers like steamed broccoli, crisp snow peas, or sliced carrots into your dish. Just before serving, toss in chunks of turkey and let them get a nice sear on the outside. Finally, give your creation a boost by sprinkling soy sauce and serving it over a bed of fluffy white rice.

#3. Turkey Lasagna

As the holiday season winds down, it’s time to give your taste buds a break from traditional Thanksgiving fare and turn to Italian-inspired dishes instead. One delicious option is to create an Italian-style lasagna using leftover turkey instead of beef. Simply substitute sliced turkey for the beef in your favorite lasagna recipe, then add some sautéed red peppers, fresh spinach, or even stuffing cubes to give it a burst of flavor.

To tie everything together, drizzle a rich turkey gravy or sauce over the top just before serving.

#4. Turkey Salad Sandwich

Transforming leftover turkey into a delectable sandwich filling is as easy as combining it with a few savory ingredients. Simply shred or chop the turkey into small pieces, then mix it with a dollop of mayonnaise and a splash of Dijon mustard to add creaminess and tanginess. Next, add some crunch and freshness by incorporating diced celery and onion. Finally, season with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors.

This unique twist on the classic turkey sandwich is sure to satisfy your hunger and provide a delightful change of pace.

#5. Turkey, beef or ham pasta bake

To create a hearty and satisfying meal, combine cooked pasta with your main course meat, along with an assortment of vegetables like peas, peppers, carrots, and broccoli. Add some olive oil to the mix and cook everything in a skillet until the flavors meld together. If you desire, add a rich cream sauce such as gravy to give it an extra boost.

Finally, transfer the mixture to a baking dish and let it bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and hot through.

#6. Turkey Fajitas

Looking for an alternative to Italian turkey lasagna? Shake things up by transforming turkey slices into delicious fajitas! Simply combine the turkey with fajita seasoning, then sauté it in a skillet with onions and peppers until cooked through. To add some extra flavor and flair, top your fajitas with guacamole, salsa, or sour cream, and wrap everything in a warm tortilla to make for a satisfying meal.

Ideas For Side Dish Leftovers

#1. Stuffing-stuffed Mushrooms

Transform your leftover stuffing into a delectable appetizer by combining it with grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. The mixture is then stuffed into mushroom caps and baked at 350°F for approximately 20 minutes. This creative approach not only reduces food waste but also allows you to repurpose herbs and spices, making it a perfect solution for utilizing your pantry’s extras.

#2. Veggie Packed Frittata

Start your post-Thanksgiving morning with a nutritious and satisfying breakfast, utilizing leftover vegetables from the previous day’s feast. Scrape together cauliflower, broccoli, peppers, onion, celery, and any other edible remnants. In a bowl, whisk together 8 eggs, 1 cup of milk, chopped parsley or chives for added flavor, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add a generous portion of stuffing and 2-3 cups of the mixed vegetables to the egg mixture.

Cook this concoction in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to your liking. Next, add grated cheddar cheese and continue simmering for an additional 10 minutes. To finish, place the pan under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the top is lightly toasted. Allow the frittata to cool before slicing and serving.

#3. Rolls and Bread

To get the most out of your bread, cube it up and freeze the cubes for future use as breadcrumbs or croutons. Alternatively, tear the bread into smaller pieces and enjoy it with a delicious spinach and artichoke dip – a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

#4. Cranberry Freeze

While cranberry sauce and salads are delicious pairings for many desserts, this homemade ice cream is also perfect on its own. Simply scoop it into bowls and enjoy it as is, or take it to the next level by freezing it in cups and topping it with a dollop of whipped cream for a sweet and indulgent treat.

#5. Mashed Potato Patties

Transforming scraps from your Thanksgiving feast into scrumptious hash browns is a great way to start your day. Simply shape the leftovers into patties and pan-fry them in hot oil until crispy and golden. For an added twist, top casseroles or potpies with mashed potatoes and bake until they’re golden brown. These creative recipes breathe new life into post-holiday meals, offering a welcome change of pace from traditional Thanksgiving fare.

And let’s not forget the classic turkey sandwich, elevated by layers of stuffing, mashed potatoes, and rich gravy, all warmed up in the oven to perfection. If you’re feeling under the weather, consider using leftover turkey to whip up a soothing Cure-A-Cold Chicken or Turkey soup, the ultimate cold-busting comfort food.

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As the seasons change and fall arrives, it’s time to give your home a fresh new look. But you don’t have to break the bank to do so. Here are 5 budget-friendly ways to refresh your home this autumn: Consider repainting one wall with a warm, earthy tone or updating your throw pillows and blankets with seasonal colors. You can also add some cozy textures by swapping out your summer bedding for flannel sheets and plush throws.

For an easy DIY project, try making a fall-themed wreath using natural elements like twigs, leaves, and pinecones. Another great idea is to display seasonal items on a decorative tray or platter, adding a pop of color and interest to any room. Finally, bring in the outdoors by placing potted mums or other fall flowers on your porch or patio.