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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    60 Leftover Dishes That Are Even Better Than Thanksgiving Dinner

    By Emmeline Kemperyd on November 27, 2024, updated November 28, 2024 - Leave a Comment

    Leftover Thanksgiving dishes can often be more exciting than the big feast itself. With a little creativity, you can transform turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce into new meals that surprise and delight. From hearty casseroles to flavorful sandwiches, these ideas will help you make the most of your leftovers!

    Leftover Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

    Leftover Turkey Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls.
    Photo Credit: Grilling 24x7.

    These turkey and brie sliders with green apple are a great way to use up leftover turkey. They’re full of flavor and perfect for a quick meal after Thanksgiving.

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    Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs With Gravy

    Turkey and Stuffing Meatballs With Gravy.
    Photo Credit: Dutch Oven Daddy.

    This dish is perfect for a busy night and packed with the flavors of Thanksgiving leftovers. With simple preparation, you can have it ready in under an hour.

    Get the Recipe

    Instant Pot Turkey Soup

    A bowl of Instant Pot Turkey Soup.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This soup is packed with turkey and has a refreshing lemon flavor that really stands out. It's a comforting dish that's perfect for using up leftover turkey.

    Get the recipe

    Turkey Bolognese

    Turkey Bolognese.
    Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud.

    This dish takes what you have and turns it into a tasty meal that everyone will enjoy.

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    Leftover Turkey Hash with Potatoes & Carrots

    Leftover Turkey Hash with Potatoes & Carrots
    Photo Credit: always use butter.

    Leftover Turkey Hash is a quick and easy way to use up your turkey dinner leftovers in just 20 minutes. Packed with crunchy carrots and crispy potatoes, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal.

    Get the recipe

    Thanksgiving Leftover Strata

    Thanksgiving Leftover Strata.
    Photo Credit: The Flavor Bender.

    This dish turns your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious layered casserole packed with flavor. It features melty cheese, crispy bacon, tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and a crunchy topping of croutons and cheesy gravy.

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    Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables

    Healthy Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables.
    Photo Credit: Haute & Healthy Living.

    Leftover turkey turns into a creamy, vegetable-filled soup that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. It’s a lighter meal after all the heavy holiday food and can be ready in just 35 minutes.

    Get the Recipe

    Sweet Potato Pie Cinnamon Rolls

    Vegan Sweet Potato Pie Cinnamon Rolls
    Photo Credit: Make it Dairy-Free.

    These cinnamon rolls are a great way to use leftover sweet potato pie. There's no need to throw anything away when you can turn it into something delicious.

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    Turkey Tetrazzini

    A serving of Turkey Tetrazzini.
    Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud.

    Turkey tetrazzini is packed with flavor and is a fantastic way to use up leftover holiday turkey. You can also use chicken if you prefer.

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    Leftover Turkey Tikka Masala

    Leftover Turkey Tikka Masala.
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    Leftover turkey can be transformed into something exciting beyond just soup or casseroles. This dish is packed with Indian flavors and aromas, making it both delicious and visually appealing.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey Pot Pie

    Sliced Turkey Pot Pie.
    Photo Credit: Sugar Spun Run.

    This turkey pot pie is a simple and delicious way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. Packed with fresh seasonal vegetables and flavors, it’s a great meal for any day.

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    Barley Turkey Soup

    A bowl of Turkey Soup.
    Photo Credit: The Forked Spoon.

    Turkey soup is a simple way to turn your holiday leftovers into a hearty meal that can feed you for days. Just take your leftover turkey, toss in some veggies and barley, and you can have a warm soup ready in less than an hour!

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    Leftover Turkey Sandwich

    Leftover Turkey Sandwich.
    Photo Credit: The Flavor Bender.

    Steaming leftover turkey in the oven keeps the meat tender and juicy, preventing it from drying out. This is a simple way to enjoy a delicious turkey sandwich after the holiday.

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    Cranberry Coffee Cake with Leftover Cranberry Sauce

    Cranberry Coffee Cake with Leftover Cranberry Sauce.
    Photo Credit: Garlic & Zest.

    Leftover cranberry sauce can be transformed into a delicious Cranberry Coffee Cake. This cake is moist, filled with cranberry, and topped with a white chocolate glaze, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

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    Turkey Chili

    Turkey Chili.
    Photo Credit: Sugar Spun Run.

    This thick and hearty chili is a great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey. It has amazing flavor from a special ingredient, cooks in just one pot, and is ready in under an hour.

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    Mashed Potato Pancakes

    A stack of vegan potato pancakes.
    Photo Credit: Veggie Society.

    Mashed potato pancakes are a classic, and for good reason! Crispy and delicious, and perfect for dipping in chimichurri sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

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    Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls

    Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls.
    Photo Credit: Blogghetti.

    Air Fryer Thanksgiving Egg Rolls are a tasty way to enjoy your holiday leftovers. These crispy rolls are filled with turkey, stuffing, and other festive flavors, and they come with cranberry sauce for dipping.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey Noodle Soup

    Homemade Turkey Soup.
    Photo Credit: Jar of Lemons.

    Leftover turkey can be transformed into a delicious Turkey Noodle Soup that's perfect for sharing. With tender carrots, celery, soft noodles, and a touch of sage, this easy slow cooker dish is sure to please everyone.

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    Leftover Turkey Enchiladas

    A serving of Leftover Turkey Enchiladas.
    Photo Credit: A Table Full of Joy.

    Leftover turkey can be transformed into easy and cheesy enchiladas that everyone will enjoy. These enchiladas are quick to prepare and are a great option for dinner.

    Get the Recipe

    Thanksgiving Grilled Cheese

    Thanksgiving Grilled Cheese.
    Photo Credit: Blogghetti.

    Transform your holiday leftovers into a delicious Thanksgiving Grilled Cheese with creamy Gouda, turkey, and cranberry sauce. The mix of flavors, along with a bit of spicy mustard, gives a cozy twist to this classic sandwich.

    Get the Recipe

    One Pot Turkey Pasta

    One Pot Turkey Pasta.
    Photo Credit: The Cagle Diaries.

    This one pot turkey pasta is creamy, cheesy, and super simple to prepare. It's a great option for busy nights, and you'll have minimal cleanup afterward.

    Get the Recipe

    Thanksgiving Leftover Pizza

    Vegan Thanksgiving Leftover Pizza.
    Photo Credit: Make it Dairy Free.

    This pizza is a great way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers. Just throw on whatever you have left from the holiday feast!

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    Leftover Turkey Nachos

    Leftover Turkey Nachos.
    Photo Credit: Gypsy Plate.

    Holiday leftovers can be transformed into something special beyond just soups and casseroles. This is a simple and enjoyable way to use up leftover turkey that everyone in the family will appreciate.

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    Leftover Turkey Roll Ups

    Leftover Turkey Roll Ups.
    Photo Credit: Cagle Diaries.

    These creamy turkey roll-ups are a great way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas. They’re simple to make and turn your leftovers into something special.

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    Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

    Turkey Cranberry Sandwich.
    Photo Credit: A Table Full of Joy.

    The Turkey Cranberry Sandwich is a delicious way to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers. Combine your favorite ingredients for a meal that could even outshine the feast itself!

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    Turkey Spinach Lasagna Rollups

    Turkey Spinach Lasagna Rollups.
    Photo Credit: My Suburban Kitchen.

    Thanksgiving brings families together, but it often leaves us with plenty of leftover turkey. These turkey spinach lasagna rolls are a delicious way to use up that turkey and enjoy a tasty meal.

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    Turkey and Dumplings

    Turkey and Dumplings.
    Photo Credit: Bake it With Love.

    Turkey and dumplings bring together chopped veggies and leftover turkey in a creamy broth, giving a fresh take on a classic dish. This hearty comfort food features all the usual chicken and dumpling soup elements, like tender vegetables, flavorful broth, and soft dumplings.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie.
    Photo Credit: Bake it WIth Love.

    Leftover turkey pot pie is a great way to enjoy your Thanksgiving turkey and mashed potatoes the next day. This easy recipe turns your holiday leftovers into a delicious meal that’s even better the second time around.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Samosas

    Leftover Turkey Samosas.
    Photo Credit: Simply Delicious.

    Leftover turkey samosas filled with cheese and cranberry sauce are a fantastic way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers. Wrapped in crispy pastry and fried to a perfect golden brown, these samosas are sure to be a hit.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey Orzo Soup

    Turkey Orzo Soup.
    Photo Credit: State of Dinner.

    Turkey Orzo Soup is a great way to use up your holiday leftovers. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a warm and satisfying meal that's easy to make.

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    Turkey Tamale Pie

    Turkey Tamale Pie.
    Photo Credit: Chisel & Fork.

    Turkey tamale pie is packed with turkey, gravy, and a tasty homemade cornbread, turning your Thanksgiving leftovers into something special. It's so delicious that you'll want to enjoy turkey even when the holidays are over.

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    Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

    Sweet and Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Dip.
    Photo Credit: Lynn's Way of Life.

    This cranberry jalapeno dip combines tartness, sweetness, spice, and creaminess for a tasty treat. It's a great way to use up leftover cranberry sauce and perfect for snacking while enjoying the game.

    Get the Recipe

    Slow Cooker Leftover Turkey Chili

    Slow Cooker Leftover Turkey Chili.
    Photo Credit: The Lazy Slow Cooker.

    Leftover turkey can be transformed into something special with this chili recipe. It's a hearty and tasty meal that gives new life to your cooked turkey.

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    Butter Turkey Curry

    Leftover Butter Turkey Curry.
    Photo Credit: Simply Delicious.

    Leftover turkey can be transformed into a delicious butter turkey curry that’s full of flavor. This dish is a hearty twist on butter chicken, perfect for enjoying in the days after Thanksgiving or Christmas with some rice and naan.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie with Biscuits

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie with Biscuits.
    Photo Credit: Flavor Mosaic.

    Leftover turkey from the holidays can be transformed into a satisfying meal that warms you up. This dish offers a cozy and delicious way to enjoy those leftovers.

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    Thanksgiving Meatballs

    Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Meatballs.
    Photo Credit: The Quicker Kitchen.

    Thanksgiving leftover turkey meatballs turn your holiday leftovers into a tasty new meal. This is a great way to use up turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing with a simple and creative twist.

    Get the Recipe

    Mexican Leftover Turkey Pot Pie

    Mexican Leftover Turkey Pot Pie.
    Photo Credit: My Suburban Kitchen.

    Leftover turkey is a common part of the holiday season, and it often ends up being more than we can handle. This turkey pie is a great way to use up that extra turkey when everyone is done with sandwiches.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Tortellini Soup

    Leftover Turkey Tortellini Soup.
    Photo Credit: Mangia with Michelle.

    Leftover Turkey Tortellini Soup is perfect for using up Thanksgiving turkey, but also delicious enjoyed any time of the year. It's healthy, tasty, and quick to whip up, making it a great choice for a simple meal.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey Carnita Nachos

    Turkey Carnita Nachos.
    Photo Credit: Luci's Morsels.

    Carnitas can be made in a simple way that still delivers great flavor. This version is perfect for busy weeknights and is sure to please everyone at the table.

    Get the Recipe

    Tater Tot Turkey Casserole

    Tater Tot Turkey Casserole.
    Photo Credit; The Feathered Nester.

    This turkey tater tot casserole is a hearty dish packed with protein, potatoes, and veggies, all baked together for a simple weeknight meal. It's a great way to use up leftover turkey from Thanksgiving.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey Cranberry Sliders

    Turkey Cranberry Sliders.
    Photo Credit: Easy Family Recipes.

    Turkey cranberry sliders are a great way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers. These easy sandwiches come together in just 30 minutes and offer a tasty mix of sweet, tangy, and cheesy flavors.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Lentil Soup

    Leftover Turkey Lentil Soup..
    Photo Credit: Midwexican.

    Turkey Lentil Soup is a great way to use leftover turkey. It combines hearty lentils with a bit of spice from fire-roasted tomatoes for a comforting meal.

    Get the Recipe

    Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwiches with Cranberry Mayonnaise

    Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwiches with Cranberry Mayonnaise.
    Photo Credit: 4 Sons R Us.

    Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches with cranberry mayonnaise turn your extra turkey and stuffing into something special. Everyone will enjoy these tasty sandwiches instead of the usual leftovers.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey Vegetable Soup

    Turkey Vegetable Soup.
    Photo Credit: Primavera Kitchen.

    This Turkey Vegetable Soup is a fantastic way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers. This hearty and healthy soup is simple to prepare and ideal for a cozy evening in the colder months.

    Get the Recipe

    Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup

    Instant Pot Turkey Noodle Soup.
    Photo Credit: Modern Bites.

    Instant Pot turkey noodle soup turns leftover turkey into a delicious and comforting dish filled with fresh veggies and egg noodles. It's perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, making use of what you have on hand.

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    Hearty Turkey and Barley Soup

    Hearty Turkey and Barley Soup.
    Photo Credit: Chaos and Wine.

    A turkey and barley soup is a great way to use leftover holiday turkey. This filling soup is just right for chilly winter evenings when you want something warm and comforting.

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    Cornbread Dressing Fritters

    Cornbread Dressing Fritters.
    Photo Credit: 4 Sons R Us.

    These crispy cornbread dressing fritters are a tasty way to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers. Served with a creamy cranberry dip, they are a great snack or appetizer that beats the usual turkey sandwiches.

    Get the Recipe

    Tex-Mex Turkey Soup

    A bowl of Tex-Mex Turkey Soup.
    Photo Credit: Valerie's Kitchen.

    This soup is a cozy meal that’s perfect for after the holidays. It’s a simple and tasty way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Mac and Cheese Waffles

    Leftover Mac and Cheese Waffles.
    Photo Credit: Ugly Duckling Bakery.

    Leftover mac and cheese can be transformed into delicious, crispy Macaroni and Cheese Waffles. This is a great way to enjoy your creamy mac and cheese in a fun new form!

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake

    Leftover Turkey Pasta Bake.
    Photo Credit: Sugar Salt Magic.

    Leftover ham or turkey can be transformed into a delicious pasta bake that’s quick and simple. This one-pan dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and can easily be made with ground turkey or leftover rotisserie chicken.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry Crust

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie with Puff Pastry Crust.
    Photo Credit: Coley Cooks.

    Leftover turkey pot pie with a flaky pastry crust is a great way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers. It's a comforting dish that turns your extra turkey into something delicious.

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    Thanksgiving Quiche

    Thanksgiving Quiche.
    Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

    Thanksgiving Quiche is a tasty way to use up your holiday leftovers. It brings together all the favorite flavors in one simple dish.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey White Bean Kale Soup

    Turkey White Bean Kale Soup.
    Photo Credit: Garden in the Kitchen.

    This thick and hearty Turkey White Bean and Kale Soup is packed with veggies and rich flavors. It's just what you need for a warm and comforting meal.

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    Creamy Turkey Corn Chowder

    Creamy Turkey Corn Chowder.
    Photo Credit: Sugar Salt Magic.

    Turkey Corn Chowder is a creamy and hearty dish that turns leftover turkey into something special. With just one pot and half an hour, you can whip up this comforting meal when you want something easy and satisfying.

    Get the Recipe

    Creamy Turkey Soup

    Creamy Turkey Soup.
    Photo Credit: NeighborFood.

    Turn your turkey leftovers into a comforting Creamy Turkey Soup. This soup is rich and creamy, packed with vegetables, and has a lovely flavor from thyme and garlic.

    Get the Recipe

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie (with Bisquick!)

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie (with Bisquick!).
    Photo Credit: Lynn's Way of Life.

    Leftover Turkey Pot Pie with Bisquick is a tasty way to use up your Thanksgiving turkey. It combines tender turkey, fresh veggies, and a flaky Bisquick crust for a comforting meal.

    Get the Recipe

    Turkey Stir Fry with Sesame Ginger Dressing

    Turkey Stir Fry with Sesame Ginger Dressing.
    Photo Credit: Flavor Mosaic.

    This Turkey Stir Fry with Sesame Ginger Dressing is a quick and healthy option that you can whip up in just 30 minutes. Packed with broccoli and carrots, it's a great way to use up leftover turkey.

    Get the Recipe

    Deep Fried Stuffing Balls

    Deep Fried Stuffing Balls.
    Photo Credit: Butter Your Biscuit.

    Deep-fried stuffing balls are a tasty way to enjoy your holiday leftovers. They're perfect for snacking, watching the game, or sharing at gatherings.

    Get the Recipe

    Cranberry Shortcake

    Cranberry Shortcake.
    Photo Credit: Brunch & Batter.

    Cranberry Shortcake is a delightful dessert perfect for fall. It features a sweet cranberry mix, fluffy biscuits, fresh whipped cream, and a hint of orange, and it's great for using up leftover cranberries.

    Get the Recipe

    Bacon Stuffing Rolls

    Bacon Stuffing Rolls.
    Photo Credit: Cheerful Cook.

    These Bacon Stuffing Rolls are always a hit with everyone! They have a crispy outside and a soft, flavorful inside, and they're a grat way to use up your leftover stuffing.

    Get the Recipe

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has more than 20 years of experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN  and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, Daily Kos, The Grio, The Asian Parent, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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