What to Make with Thanksgiving Leftovers: Easy Turkey Recipes

Thanksgiving dinner is always worth the work, but once the holiday ends, a fridge packed with leftovers can feel more stressful than exciting. Nobody likes the thought of wasting food, and with rising grocery costs, letting turkey go uneaten is like tossing money in the trash.

Thankfully, with a little creativity, you can turn those leftovers into fresh, budget-friendly meals your family will actually enjoy. Think quick turkey recipes that come together in minutes, clever tips to make every bite count, and simple ways to store food safely so nothing goes to waste.

Quick Budget-Friendly Tips Before You Start

Before you jump into new recipes, a few smart tricks will help you make the most of every bite.

Store with care. Turkey and most sides will last 3–4 days in the fridge, but if you know you won’t use them that fast, freeze them in meal-sized portions. Lay slices of turkey flat in freezer bags so you can break off just what you need for sandwiches or soups. Soups, gravies, and mashed potatoes also freeze well—just label and date so nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

Think beyond reheats. Leftovers can look different than last night’s plate. Use mashed potatoes as a creamy base for bread dough or gnocchi. Stir a spoonful of stuffing into ground beef or turkey to make extra-flavorful burgers or meatballs. Leftover cranberry sauce? Swirl it into muffin batter, oatmeal, or even homemade salad dressing. These little swaps keep meals interesting while saving money on extra ingredients.

One dish, big payoff. One-pan meals save time, dishes, and energy. Try a “clean-out-the-fridge” frittata that combines turkey, veggies, and cheese into a single skillet meal. Or layer turkey, gravy, and roasted veggies in a baking dish, top with stuffing, and bake into a quick casserole. Even quesadillas or sheet pan nachos are a fun way to use turkey and cheese without cooking a whole new meal.

Bonus tip: Pack leftovers into lunch portions while cleaning up from Thanksgiving dinner. That way, you’ve got grab-and-go meals ready, and you’re less tempted to let food linger until it spoils.

Turkey Sandwiches

This sandwich transforms leftover turkey into a creamy salad, seasoned with herbs and crunchy add-ins for texture. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep or quick weekday lunches. A versatile option that feels familiar but still exciting after Thanksgiving.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It gives leftover turkey a completely new life by turning it into a spreadable, protein-packed filling.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — chop, mix, and assemble.
• Can I freeze it?
  Freezing isn’t recommended; keep refrigerated for 2–3 days.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo, or add grapes, apples, or nuts for extra crunch.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Serve with chips, veggie sticks, or a small fruit salad.

This sandwich balances savory and sweet with turkey, crisp apple slices, sharp cheddar, and sourdough bread. It’s quick to assemble but tastes like something from a bistro menu. A delicious way to use up leftovers without feeling repetitive.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  The sweet apple and sharp cheddar combo creates a flavor contrast that elevates leftover turkey.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — just slice, layer, and enjoy.
• Can I freeze it?
  Not recommended; best eaten fresh for crisp texture.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap cheddar for brie or Havarti; use multigrain or ciabatta instead of sourdough.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Pair with sweet potato fries or a warm cup of tomato soup.

Turkey Soup, Stews, and Chili

This hearty soup turns leftover turkey into a comforting, protein-packed meal. White beans add creaminess and bulk, making it both filling and budget-friendly. With simple pantry spices and veggies, it’s a warm bowl of comfort that tastes completely different from the original Thanksgiving dinner.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  The addition of white beans adds fiber and protein, transforming turkey into a balanced, nourishing soup.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — it’s mostly a “simmer and wait” recipe.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in portions for easy reheats.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap beans for lentils or chickpeas, or use spinach instead of kale.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Serve with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

This cozy stew makes the most of leftover turkey by simmering it with vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s filling, comforting, and ideal for feeding a crowd without spending extra at the store. One pot is all you need to bring this warming dish together.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It transforms leftovers into a rustic, slow-simmered meal that feels freshly made.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner to intermediate — chopping and simmering are the main tasks.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, portion into freezer containers and store for up to 2 months.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes, or add beans for extra protein.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Try with cornbread, biscuits, or a simple green side salad.

This soup blends tender turkey with nutty wild rice and mellow leeks for a dish that feels both rustic and elegant. It’s a lighter, yet still satisfying way to enjoy your holiday leftovers. The flavors develop beautifully, making it taste like a fresh, new meal.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  The combination of leeks and wild rice creates a savory, earthy flavor that sets it apart from typical leftover soups.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Intermediate — requires a little more chopping and simmering time, but very doable.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, but note that wild rice holds up better than white rice, making this soup freezer-friendly.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap leeks for onions if needed, or use brown rice or barley for a different texture.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Pair with a light side salad or roasted vegetables.

This simple soup makes excellent use of leftover turkey, pairing it with rice and vegetables for a wholesome, budget-friendly dish that comes together without much fuss. The mild flavors make it a family-friendly option that even picky eaters will enjoy, while the hearty rice adds comfort and staying power. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can toss in whatever veggies you have on hand or swap in different grains to suit your pantry. Light yet satisfying, this soup is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy lunches, or portioning out for easy meal prep.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It’s simple, versatile, and appeals to both kids and adults with its classic flavor.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — perfect for new cooks.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, though rice may soften slightly after thawing. Store in freezer-safe portions.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap rice for quinoa, barley, or even pasta.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Serve with garlic bread or roasted green beans.

This white bean and turkey chili is a flavorful, hearty twist on the traditional version, offering comfort without the heaviness of tomato-based sauces. By combining tender turkey with creamy white beans, mild spices, and simple vegetables, it creates a fresh spin that feels lighter but still satisfying. It’s an easy reheat-and-eat option throughout the week.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  The “white chili” base offers a lighter, brighter flavor compared to traditional chili.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — minimal prep and mostly simmering.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap white beans for chickpeas or add corn for sweetness.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad.

Main Dishes with Turkey

This slow cooker version of turkey tetrazzini is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it leftover makeover. Creamy pasta, tender turkey, and a rich sauce come together with almost no effort. It’s a cozy, family-style dinner perfect for busy days after the holiday.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It uses the slow cooker to save time and reduce hands-on cooking.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — the slow cooker does most of the work.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to avoid drying out pasta.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Use chicken instead of turkey, or swap in gluten-free pasta if needed.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Serve with garlic bread and a green salad.

This classic turkey tetrazzini recipe transforms holiday leftovers into a creamy, baked pasta dish the whole family will love. Made with simple pantry staples and turkey, it’s an affordable way to stretch what you already have on hand. The golden, cheesy topping and rich sauce make it the ultimate comfort food, while the one-pan style keeps cleanup easy. Perfect for portioning out for freezer-friendly meals, this casserole is a go-to for turning leftovers into something everyone looks forward to.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It relies on accessible pantry ingredients for an easy, budget-friendly casserole.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — simple mixing and baking steps.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, assemble ahead and freeze unbaked for a quick dinner later.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap peas for broccoli or mushrooms, or use leftover ham instead of turkey.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Pair with roasted veggies or a side Caesar salad.

This turkey stroganoff reinvents leftovers with a creamy mushroom sauce over egg noodles. It’s hearty, flavorful, and comes together in one pan, making cleanup simple. A lighter twist on the traditional beef stroganoff.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It adapts a classic comfort food dish into a lighter, leftover-friendly version.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner to intermediate — simple stovetop cooking with a creamy sauce.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, though the sauce may thicken; reheat with a splash of broth.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or swap in rice or zucchini noodles.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Add steamed green beans or a tossed salad.

These enchiladas wrap leftover turkey in tortillas, smothered with sauce and cheese for a bold, family-pleasing dinner. They’re a fun way to bring a Tex-Mex twist to Thanksgiving extras. Easy to make ahead and bake when needed, they’re the kind of dish that turns holiday leftovers into something everyone will actually be excited to eat.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It reinvents leftovers with bold flavors and a completely new cuisine.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — assemble and bake.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, assemble ahead and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap turkey for chicken or beans, use flour or corn tortillas.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Pair with rice and beans or a simple corn salad.

This turkey loaf uses leftover turkey in a new way, shaped and baked like a classic meatloaf with simple seasonings. It’s hearty, affordable, and stretches a small amount of turkey into a family-sized meal that feels brand new. The golden crust and savory flavor make it a comforting option everyone can enjoy, while the easy prep keeps it practical for busy schedules. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe proves that leftovers can be just as exciting as the holiday feast itself.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It repurposes cooked turkey into a completely new dish with classic meatloaf appeal.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner-friendly — mix, shape, and bake.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, freeze baked slices for quick reheats.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Swap breadcrumbs for oats or crackers, or use barbecue sauce instead of ketchup topping.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.

A golden, flaky crust holds tender turkey, vegetables, and gravy in this classic pot pie that’s as cozy as it gets. It’s a timeless way to transform Thanksgiving leftovers into a completely new dish that feels homemade and hearty, with all the flavors of comfort food wrapped in one pan. The creamy filling balances perfectly with the crisp, buttery crust, making every bite satisfying. Ideal for family dinners, this recipe is proof that leftovers can be elevated into something truly special.

What makes this recipe unique?
The flaky crust and rich filling transform leftovers into comfort food perfection.

What is the difficulty level?
Intermediate — requires making or handling pastry crust.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, pot pies freeze well; bake from frozen or thaw before reheating.

Are there any swaps I could make?
Use puff pastry for an easier crust, or substitute sweet potatoes for a twist.

What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
Pair with a simple green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts.

Turkey a la King is a creamy, savory dish that transforms holiday leftovers into pure comfort food. Served over biscuits, rice, or noodles, it’s rich, filling, and endlessly versatile, making it easy to adapt to whatever you have in the pantry. The silky sauce paired with tender turkey and vegetables makes this recipe feel both nostalgic and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s a simple way to turn leftovers into a meal everyone will look forward to.

• What makes this recipe unique?
  It’s a classic retro dish that’s flexible with multiple serving options.
• What is the difficulty level?
  Beginner to intermediate — simple stovetop sauce with flexible bases.
• Can I freeze it?
  Yes, though the creamy sauce may thicken; reheat with broth or cream.
• Are there any swaps I could make?
  Use mushrooms, bell peppers, or even peas to customize the veggies.
• What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
  Serve over biscuits, rice, or egg noodles.

This low-carb recipe uses spaghetti squash as a base for a cheesy mushroom and turkey filling. It’s a lighter, gluten-free option that still delivers comfort food vibes. Perfect for when you want a break from heavy holiday eating.

What makes this recipe unique?
It’s keto- and low-carb friendly while still feeling rich and cheesy.

What is the difficulty level?
Intermediate — requires roasting squash and assembling filling.

Can I freeze it?
Best enjoyed fresh; squash may become watery when frozen.

Are there any swaps I could make?
Swap spaghetti squash for zucchini noodles or use quinoa for a heartier base.

What pairs well with this to make it a full meal?
Pair with a side salad or roasted asparagus.

Final Thoughts

The day after Thanksgiving the fridge was so full of containers I could barely find the milk, and I had no idea where to start. But once I began thinking of leftovers as ingredients instead of repeat meals, everything clicked. A scoop of mashed potatoes became a cozy soup thickener, cranberry sauce brightened a batch of muffins, and turkey turned into hearty sandwiches that carried us through the week.

That’s the real gift of Thanksgiving leftovers—they’re not just extras, they’re opportunities. With a little creativity, you can turn them into budget-friendly meals that save money, reduce waste, and make life easier during the holiday rush. And sometimes, the dishes that start as “leftovers” end up becoming the traditions your family loves most.