21 Leftover Turkey Recipes – Waste Not Want Not!

When I was growing up, I was always told “waste not, want not” and I’ve carried that through to my adulthood. I think back in the eighties and nineties, we ate what we were given or went without! Whilst times have definitely changed, I still hate to see good food go to waste.

Over the festive period, most of us indulge a little and probably buy far more food than we need. So, at this time of year, it’s more important than ever to make sure we don’t waste good food.

The beauty of the festive period is that there are so many delicious foods readily available. And often, the leftovers can actually taste much nicer than the original meal – I’ll never understand quite why that is!

We always have leftover turkey – in fact I always cook up more than we need to make sure we have some leftovers I can use in the days after. I’ve tried out some really delicious leftover turkey recipes over the years and I’ve got 21 here to share with you!

21 Leftover Turkey Recipes

1. Turkey and Cranberry Quesadillas

A delicious twist on traditional quesadillas, these Turkey and Cranberry Quesadillas combine savory turkey with the sweet-tart flavor of cranberry sauce, making for a quick and delicious meal.

Turkey and cranberry sauce just work together and I love to make recipes combining the two over the festive period.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded turkey with cranberry sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet, and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
4. Layer half of the turkey mixture over the cheese, then fold the tortilla in half.
5. Cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
6. Serve warm, garnished with green onions if desired.

2. Turkey Pot Pie

This comforting Turkey Pot Pie is the perfect way to use up leftover turkey. Packed with vegetables and a creamy sauce, it’s topped with a flaky crust for a hearty meal.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened.
4. Add turkey, mixed vegetables, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a pie dish and cover with the pie crust, sealing the edges.
6. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.

3. Turkey Chili

This hearty Turkey Chili is a flavorful and healthy way to enjoy leftover turkey. Packed with beans, tomatoes, and spices, it’s perfect for a cozy meal.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, cheese, cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the shredded turkey, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the kidney beans, black beans, and diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve hot, topped with sour cream, cheese, and cilantro if desired.

4. Turkey Fried Rice

This Turkey Fried Rice is a quick and easy dish that transforms leftover turkey into a flavorful meal. It’s a great way to use up rice and veggies as well!

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender.
3. Push the veggies to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until fully cooked.
4. Add the cooked rice and turkey to the pan, mixing everything together.
5. Pour soy sauce over the mixture, stirring to combine. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until heated through.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

5. Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells

These Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting and cheesy dish that takes advantage of leftover turkey while incorporating nutritious spinach for a wholesome meal.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 12 large pasta shells
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup spinach, cooked and chopped
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix shredded turkey, ricotta cheese, spinach, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
5. Stuff each shell with the turkey mixture and place them in the dish. Top with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

6. Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini is a creamy pasta dish that combines leftover turkey with mushrooms and a rich sauce, making it a satisfying and easy-to-make comfort food.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and mushrooms, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked turkey and pasta, mixing to combine. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

7. Turkey Salad Sandwiches

These Turkey Salad Sandwiches are a refreshing and easy way to enjoy leftover turkey. With a creamy dressing and crunchy veggies, they make for a perfect lunch option.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional)
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, diced
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or grapes, halved
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lettuce leaves and bread of choice for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced turkey, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, cranberries, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Toast bread if desired.
3. Serve the turkey salad on slices of bread, topped with lettuce leaves.

8. Turkey Enchiladas

These Turkey Enchiladas are a flavorful way to use up leftover turkey, wrapped in tortillas and smothered in enchilada sauce and cheese, perfect for a family dinner.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 8 corn or flour tortillas
• 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix shredded turkey, half of the enchilada sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Fill each tortilla with the turkey mixture, roll up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
4. Pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted. Serve with optional toppings.

9. Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This quick and healthy Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry is a great way to use leftover turkey while incorporating fresh vegetables for a vibrant and nutritious meal.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Add the sliced turkey and soy sauce, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve over rice or noodles.

10. Turkey Curry

This Turkey Curry is a fragrant and flavorful dish that transforms leftover turkey into a warm, comforting meal. It pairs perfectly with rice or naan for a satisfying dinner.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until softened.
2. Stir in curry powder and cook for another minute.
3. Add the diced turkey and coconut milk, bringing to a simmer.
4. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice.

11. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

This Turkey Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting casserole made with layers of seasoned turkey and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, cook onion until softened. Add mixed vegetables, turkey, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
4. Transfer the turkey mixture to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.

12. Turkey Alfredo Pasta

This creamy Turkey Alfredo Pasta is a quick and indulgent dish that combines leftover turkey with a rich Alfredo sauce, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Add the cooked turkey and pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

13. Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash

This Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash is a hearty and nutritious breakfast or brunch option that combines leftover turkey with sweet potatoes and spices for a delicious start to your day.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fried eggs for topping

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sweet potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the diced turkey, paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking until heated through.
4. Serve hot, topped with a fried egg if desired.

14. Turkey and Cheese Sliders

These Turkey and Cheese Sliders are a fun and easy way to use leftover turkey. They make for a great appetizer or game-day snack, packed with flavor and cheesy goodness.

Servings: 12 sliders

Ingredients:

• 12 slider buns
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 cup Swiss or cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Sesame seeds for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Spread the mixture on the inside of each slider bun.
3. Layer shredded turkey and cheese on the bottom half of the buns, then place the top half back on.
4. Arrange the sliders in a baking dish. Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden.

15. Turkey and Black Bean Tacos

These Turkey and Black Bean Tacos are a quick and healthy meal option, featuring seasoned turkey and black beans wrapped in warm tortillas, topped with your favorite fixings.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• 8 corn or flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, cheese, cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, combine shredded turkey, black beans, and taco seasoning. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.
2. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
3. Fill each tortilla with the turkey and black bean mixture. Add desired toppings.
4. Serve immediately.

16. Turkey Caesar Salad

This Turkey Caesar Salad is a fresh and light option that combines leftover turkey with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons for a satisfying meal.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 2 cups cooked turkey, sliced or shredded
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup croutons
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, turkey, and Caesar dressing. Toss until evenly coated.
2. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and croutons.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper.

17. Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers

These Turkey Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious dish filled with a savory mixture of turkey, rice, and spices, making for a great dinner option.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix diced turkey, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture and place them in a baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and cover with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

18. Turkey Bolognese

This Turkey Bolognese is a lighter take on the classic Italian dish, using leftover turkey in a rich tomato sauce, perfect for serving over pasta or in lasagna.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta for serving

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and carrot, cooking until softened.
2. Stir in chopped turkey, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Serve the sauce over cooked pasta.

19. Turkey Omelette

This Turkey Omelette is a quick and nutritious breakfast option that incorporates leftover turkey, vegetables, and cheese for a delicious start to your day.

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup cooked turkey, diced
• 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or feta)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, salt, and pepper.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and cook until the edges start to set.
4. Add diced turkey and cheese on one half of the omelette. Fold the other half over and cook until the cheese melts.
5. Serve warm.

20. Turkey and Mushroom Risotto

This creamy Turkey and Mushroom Risotto is a comforting dish that utilizes leftover turkey and is infused with rich flavors, making it a perfect meal for any night.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 2 cups cooked turkey, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, heat chicken broth and keep it warm over low heat.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and mushrooms, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes. If using, add white wine and cook until absorbed.
4. Gradually add warm chicken broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently until the rice is creamy and cooked through.
5. Stir in diced turkey and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

21. Turkey Pizza

This Turkey Pizza is a fun and easy way to use leftover turkey, topped with your favorite ingredients for a delicious homemade meal that everyone will love.

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1/4 cup red onion, sliced
• Optional toppings: olives, mushrooms, or spinach

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven according to the pizza crust instructions.
2. Spread pizza sauce evenly over the crust.
3. Top with shredded turkey, mozzarella cheese, bell peppers, and onion.
4. Bake according to crust instructions until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Slice and serve hot.

I hope you enjoy trying out some of these leftover turkey recipes this year – I honestly think so many things actually taste better the second time around!