5 Delicious Leftover Turkey Recipes You Must Try
Thanksgiving might be over, but the joy of feasting can continue with those turkey leftovers. Rather than sticking to the traditional sandwich routine, why not get creative in the kitchen? Here are five mouthwatering leftover turkey recipes that will transform your holiday remnants into delightful new meals, perfect for both you and your wallet.
1. Turkey Pot Pie
The humble pot pie is an ultimate comfort food, and it's an excellent way to repurpose leftover turkey. Here's how you can make it:
- Crust: Use store-bought pie dough or make your own with flour, salt, shortening, and cold water.
- Filling:
- Start with melted butter in a skillet, then sauté onions until translucent.
- Add chopped leftover turkey, vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn), and season with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Create a creamy sauce with flour, chicken or turkey stock, and a splash of cream for richness.
- Assembly: Line a pie dish with one crust, pour in the filling, top with the second crust, seal the edges, and make some vents to let steam escape.
- Bake: At 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden and filling is bubbling.
💡 Note: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or even leftover mashed potatoes for a twist on the traditional pot pie filling.
2. Turkey Enchiladas
Transform your turkey into a vibrant, Mexican-inspired dish:
- Soften tortillas by heating them up in a skillet.
- Create the filling by mixing shredded turkey with your choice of beans, corn, and salsa or enchilada sauce.
- Fill each tortilla, roll up, and arrange in a baking dish.
- Pour over extra sauce, then sprinkle with cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
📝 Note: Consider using green salsa for a tangy contrast or red salsa for a traditional flavor profile.
3. Turkey Soup with Dumplings
A soothing bowl of turkey soup with fluffy dumplings can work wonders for both your soul and your leftovers:
- Simmer turkey bones in water to create a homemade broth, straining out the bones afterward.
- Add chopped leftover turkey, onions, carrots, celery, and perhaps some herbs like parsley or dill.
- To make dumplings, mix flour, baking powder, salt, milk, and an egg, drop spoonfuls into the simmering soup, and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, then covered for another 10 minutes.
🎨 Note: For a more aromatic touch, include a few bay leaves in the soup while simmering.
4. Turkey Curry
Give your turkey an exotic flair with an easy curry:
- In a large pan, heat oil and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger.
- Add spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, along with chili powder for heat.
- Pour in coconut milk or yogurt for a creamy texture and stir in diced leftover turkey.
- Simmer to combine flavors, and garnish with cilantro for a fresh finish.
5. Turkey and Cranberry Sliders
For a quicker treat, these sliders will become a holiday staple:
- Use Hawaiian rolls or similar sweet, fluffy buns.
- Slather mayo or mustard on the buns, layer with leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese.
- If desired, butter the top of the rolls, sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, and bake until cheese melts.
In the end, your Thanksgiving leftovers become the beginning of a new culinary adventure. With these recipes, you can stretch your turkey’s lifespan while keeping your palate intrigued. The beauty of these dishes is not just in their flavors but in their simplicity and versatility. By incorporating these turkey recipes, you extend the festive spirit of Thanksgiving beyond the feast day, into a week of diverse and delicious meals. Whether you prefer something indulgent like the pot pie, exotic with the curry, or simple with sliders, there’s a recipe here to transform your leftovers into something special.
Can I freeze the dishes from these recipes?
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Absolutely, dishes like the turkey pot pie and turkey enchiladas can be frozen for later consumption. Just make sure to cool them first, then wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or foil. Allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What are some other vegetables I can add to the turkey pot pie?
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You can get creative with leftover vegetables like green beans, spinach, or even butternut squash. Just ensure they are cooked through before assembly.
Are there vegetarian options for these recipes?
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Yes, replace the turkey with alternatives like tofu, chickpeas, or a mix of hearty vegetables. For the pot pie, consider adding lentils or sweet potatoes for substance.
