Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Turkey

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting, but it often leaves us with an abundance of delicious turkey leftovers. Instead of letting that precious meat go to waste, here are some scrumptious recipes that will help you transform those leftovers into delightful meals. From cozy pot pies to comforting congee, these ideas will ensure that your leftover turkey is enjoyed to the fullest.

Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry

One of the most comforting ways to use leftover turkey is by making a Turkey Pot Pie. This dish combines the rich flavors of turkey with a flaky puff pastry crust, creating a warm and hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry or homemade rough puff pastry
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter (28g)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• 3 stalks fresh parsley, minced
• 3 stalks fresh thyme, minced
• 1 small stalk fresh rosemary, minced
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced into 1cm cubes
• 12 oz frozen mixed vegetables, thawed (1 bag)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt plus more to taste
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper plus more to taste
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire or soy sauce
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (30g)
• 2 cups turkey or chicken stock, warmed (16 fl oz)
• ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (60ml)
• 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, shredded or cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 egg, whisked (for egg wash)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400℉ (205℃).
2. Thaw the puff pastry in the fridge, then roll it out so it’s slightly thinner, keeping it in a square shape.
3. In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and butter.
4. Sauté the onion, garlic, and herbs, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about three minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper, allowing them to heat up for about two minutes.
6. Add the Worcestershire sauce and flour, tossing to coat, and cook for 1 minute.
7. While stirring, slowly drizzle in the stock and continue to stir as it thickens. Allow the gravy to bubble for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
9. Add the turkey pieces and mix. Allow it to simmer for a bit if it needs to thicken further, then remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
10. Roll out the puff pastry evenly and place it on top of the filling, allowing it to hang over the edges.
11. Whisk an egg and brush it on top of the pastry.
12. Add two large slits (~2 inches) into the top of the pastry to help steam release.
13. Bake in the center rack of the oven for 20-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. If the pastry in the center still looks raw, continue baking for a few more minutes at a time, tenting the pastry with foil if it is browning too quickly.

Tasting Suggestions

This turkey pot pie is best enjoyed warm, served with a side salad or some crusty bread. The combination of the flaky pastry and the rich, savory filling is sure to satisfy your cravings on a chilly day.

Turkey Congee

Another fantastic way to utilize leftover turkey is by making Turkey Congee, a comforting Chinese rice porridge that is perfect for cold days.

Ingredients

• Turkey carcass + meat
• ½ cup Jasmine Rice
• 8 cups Water
• 1 whole Onion (for aromatics)
• 1 tsp White Pepper
• Optional: leftover roasted veggies (e.g., carrots, mushrooms)

Instructions

1. Extract the turkey carcass and save pieces of turkey meat.
2. In a large pot, place your turkey carcass in with rice and water (you do not need to wash the rice to keep the starches).
3. Add in the whole onion for flavor.
4. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 1.5 hours.
5. Remove the turkey carcass and add in your turkey meat, optional veggies, and white pepper. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, topped with green onions for added freshness.

Tasting Suggestions

This congee is creamy and comforting, making it a perfect dish for chilly evenings. The flavors meld beautifully, and it can be customized with additional toppings like green onions or fried shallots for extra flavor.

Cranberry Turkey Sliders

For a fun and easy meal, try making Cranberry Turkey Sliders. These sliders are perfect for parties or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 package Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (12 count)
• 2 cups diced turkey
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 6 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Dried parsley (for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350℉ (175℃).
2. Cut the Hawaiian rolls in half and place the bottom slab in a foiled-covered pan.
3. Layer with turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese, then add the top slab of rolls.
4. Melt butter in the microwave and mix in remaining ingredients (except Parmesan cheese and parsley).
5. Brush or pour this mixture evenly over the rolls.
6. Bake covered for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden brown.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and parsley before serving.

Tasting Suggestions

These sliders are best served warm and can be paired with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. The combination of turkey and cranberry provides a delightful balance of savory and sweet.

Leftover Turkey Meatloaf Muffins

If you’re looking for a unique way to use leftover turkey, try making Turkey Meatloaf Muffins. These individual servings are a hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground turkey
• 1 (8 ounce) package Cheddar cheese, cubed (optional)
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
• ¾ cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375℉ (190℃) and grease a muffin tin with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, Cheddar cheese, onion, bread crumbs, milk, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands.
3. Scoop the turkey mixture into the muffin tin using a large ice cream scoop.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes until golden brown.

Tasting Suggestions

These meatloaf muffins are perfect for meal prep and can be served with a side of mashed potatoes or a light salad. They are flavorful and make for a great lunch or dinner option.

Conclusion

Leftover turkey can be transformed into a variety of delicious meals that will satisfy your cravings and help minimize food waste. Whether you opt for a cozy pot pie, comforting congee, or fun sliders, these recipes offer something for everyone. So, the next time you find yourself with leftover turkey, don’t hesitate to whip up one of these delightful dishes!