Hey there, readers!
Thanksgiving is a time for family, feasting, and leftovers. And while we all love the turkey on Thanksgiving Day, the leftovers can be just as good, if not better. In this article, we’ll share our favorite ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey in creative and delicious meals.
Traditional Leftover Turkey Meals
Turkey Sandwiches
The classic leftover turkey sandwich is a quick and easy lunch or dinner option. Simply pile some sliced turkey on your favorite bread, add some stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mayonnaise, and you’re good to go.
Turkey Soup
Turkey soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cold winter day. Simply simmer some turkey bones in water with vegetables, herbs, and spices. Once the soup is done, add some cooked turkey and noodles.
Turkey Casserole
Turkey casserole is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Simply combine cooked turkey with vegetables, gravy, and spices. Then, bake it in the oven until it’s bubbly and hot.
Creative Leftover Turkey Meals
Turkey Tacos
Turkey tacos are a fun and easy way to use up leftover turkey. Simply shred the turkey and add it to your favorite taco filling. Then, serve it on tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Turkey Fried Rice
Turkey fried rice is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Simply cook some rice and then add cooked turkey, vegetables, and eggs. Season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to taste.
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Turkey shepherd’s pie is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a family dinner. Simply combine cooked turkey with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. Then, bake it in the oven until it’s bubbly and hot.
Leftover Turkey Meal Ideas Table
| Meal | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey Sandwiches | Leftover turkey, bread, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mayonnaise | Slice turkey and assemble sandwiches with desired ingredients. |
| Turkey Soup | Leftover turkey bones, water, vegetables, herbs, spices | Simmer turkey bones in water with vegetables, herbs, and spices. Add cooked turkey and noodles before serving. |
| Turkey Casserole | Leftover turkey, vegetables, gravy, spices | Combine turkey, vegetables, gravy, and spices. Bake in the oven until bubbly and hot. |
| Turkey Tacos | Leftover turkey, taco shells, taco filling | Shred turkey and add to taco filling. Serve on tortillas with desired toppings. |
| Turkey Fried Rice | Leftover turkey, rice, vegetables, eggs | Cook rice and add turkey, vegetables, and eggs. Season with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to taste. |
| Turkey Shepherd’s Pie | Leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables | Combine turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. Bake in the oven until bubbly and hot. |
Conclusion
There you have it, our favorite ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey. From classic dishes to creative delights, there’s sure to be something here for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
And while you’re here, be sure to check out our other articles on Thanksgiving and holiday cooking.
FAQ about Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Meals
Q: How long do leftover Thanksgiving turkey meals last in the refrigerator?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, leftover turkey can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: How should I store leftover turkey meals for longer periods?
A: For longer storage, freeze leftover turkey meals in freezer-safe containers. They can last up to 2-3 months.
Q: What is the best way to reheat leftover turkey?
A: Reheat turkey in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through, or use the microwave in short bursts.
Q: Can I make sandwiches with leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
A: Yes, leftover turkey sandwiches are a classic! Pair turkey with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and your favorite condiments.
Q: What are some creative ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
A: Try incorporating leftover turkey into soups, stews, casseroles, salads, and wraps.
Q: Can I use leftover turkey bones to make stock?
A: Yes, turkey bones make an excellent base for a flavorful turkey stock. Simmer them in a pot with water, vegetables, and herbs.
Q: How do I prevent leftover Thanksgiving turkey from drying out?
A: Store turkey in the refrigerator with a tight-fitting lid or wrap it in aluminum foil. You can also add a little bit of gravy to the container.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with leftover Thanksgiving turkey?
A: Popular side dishes for leftover turkey include mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce.
Q: Can I use leftover Thanksgiving turkey to make soup?
A: Yes, leftover turkey can be used in a variety of soups, such as turkey noodle soup, turkey and rice soup, or turkey and vegetable soup.
Q: How do I freeze leftover Thanksgiving turkey meals?
A: Let the turkey and side dishes cool completely before freezing them in freezer-safe containers. Label the containers with the date and contents.