How to Use Thanksgiving Leftovers and Make Easy Meals
Thanksgiving is a time for indulgence, but once the holiday is over, you’re often left with a mountain of delicious leftovers. Instead of letting those extra servings go to waste, use them creatively to make quick, easy, and tasty meals. Repurposing Thanksgiving leftovers not only helps minimize food waste but also saves you time and effort in the kitchen.
Here are some easy ways to turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into satisfying meals for the days after the feast:
1. Turkey Tacos or Burritos
Leftover turkey can be a great base for tacos or burritos. Shred the turkey and warm it up with some seasonings to give it a fresh twist.
How to Make It:
- Shred or chop leftover turkey and heat it in a skillet with olive oil, garlic, and a mix of chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
- Warm soft tortillas, then layer them with turkey, black beans, corn, shredded lettuce, and any other vegetables you have on hand.
- Top with salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor and creaminess.
Tip: Add some shredded cheese or a squeeze of lime for extra zest!
2. Turkey and Cranberry Sandwiches
This classic combo is simple and satisfying. Add a few ingredients to elevate the flavors and make a hearty meal.
How to Make It:
- Spread cranberry sauce or leftover gravy on whole-grain or sourdough bread.
- Layer slices of turkey, a handful of leafy greens (like spinach or arugula), and a slice of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or gouda all work well).
- For a warm sandwich, toast the whole thing in a skillet or panini press until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Tip: Add a little mustard or horseradish for a spicy kick, or throw in some sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
3. Stuffing Frittata
Turn leftover stuffing into a savory frittata. It’s a great way to use up any remaining stuffing while creating a protein-packed meal.
How to Make It:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, beat 6-8 eggs and season with salt, pepper, and herbs (parsley or thyme work well).
- In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the leftover stuffing and sauté for a few minutes until warmed through.
- Pour the beaten eggs over the stuffing and let it cook on the stove for 2-3 minutes, then transfer to the oven to bake for 10-12 minutes, until the eggs are set and the top is golden.
Tip: Feel free to add some leftover vegetables or cheese to the frittata for extra flavor.
4. Leftover Mashed Potato Cakes
Turn mashed potatoes into crispy, golden cakes that are perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
How to Make It:
- Take your leftover mashed potatoes and mix them with one egg, a tablespoon of flour, and some seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic powder, or fresh herbs).
- Form the mixture into patties, about 2-3 inches wide.
- Heat a skillet with a bit of oil over medium heat and cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden and crispy.
Tip: Serve with a fried egg on top for breakfast, or pair with a salad or turkey gravy for lunch or dinner.
5. Turkey Soup
Turkey soup is a great way to use up leftover turkey and any vegetables that didn’t make it to the dinner table. It’s easy to throw together and comforting on cold days.
How to Make It:
- Start by simmering the leftover turkey carcass in a large pot with water, bay leaves, and any vegetable scraps (like onion, carrot, celery, and garlic) for a couple of hours to create a broth.
- Remove the carcass, strain the broth, and return it to the pot. Add any leftover turkey meat, diced vegetables (like carrots, celery, and potatoes), and cook until tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme or parsley.
Tip: Add some pasta or rice to make it more hearty, and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
6. Sweet Potato Hash
If you have leftover sweet potatoes from the holiday meal, they make a great addition to a breakfast or brunch hash.
How to Make It:
- Dice the leftover sweet potatoes into small cubes and sauté them in a pan with olive oil or butter.
- Add some diced onions, bell peppers, and spinach (or any leftover roasted vegetables).
- Once the sweet potatoes are crispy and heated through, top with a fried egg for a complete meal.
Tip: Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for extra flavor, and serve with a side of salsa or avocado.
7. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Don’t let your leftover pumpkin pie go to waste! Use it in a smoothie for a fun, indulgent twist.
How to Make It:
- Blend a small slice of leftover pumpkin pie (crust and all) with a cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), some ice, and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Add a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess and protein.
Tip: If the pie is too sweet, you can balance it with a handful of spinach or a frozen banana to cut the sweetness and add fiber.
8. Roasted Vegetable Quesadillas
Leftover roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or squash) can be turned into a savory quesadilla for a quick lunch or dinner.
How to Make It:
- Layer leftover roasted vegetables with cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix) on a tortilla.
- Add some black beans or cooked chicken (if you have extra turkey, use that) for added protein.
- Fold the tortilla in half and cook in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Tip: Serve with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
9. Cranberry Sauce Glazed Chicken or Pork
Leftover cranberry sauce is a great base for a sweet and tangy glaze.
How to Make It:
- Heat leftover cranberry sauce in a small saucepan with a little orange juice, balsamic vinegar, or maple syrup to thin it out and create a glaze.
- Brush the glaze over grilled or baked chicken breasts or pork chops during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Serve the meat with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tip: The cranberry sauce adds a festive touch, making this a great dish for post-Thanksgiving family meals.
10. Leftover Holiday Salad
If you have leftover roasted vegetables, turkey, or even stuffing, use them to make a hearty salad that can serve as a light lunch or dinner.
How to Make It:
- Start with a bed of leafy greens (spinach, kale, or arugula).
- Add diced leftover turkey, roasted vegetables (like sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or carrots), and a sprinkle of nuts or seeds (such as walnuts or sunflower seeds).
- Dress the salad with a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey.
Tip: For extra flavor, add a few crumbles of feta cheese or a handful of dried cranberries.
Conclusion
Leftover Thanksgiving food doesn’t have to be boring or repetitive. With a little creativity, you can transform your holiday leftovers into quick, healthy, and delicious meals. Whether you’re turning turkey into tacos or repurposing mashed potatoes into crispy cakes, these easy ideas will help you enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving long after the holiday is over. Plus, using leftovers minimizes waste and saves you time and money. So, embrace those leftovers and make the most of your post-holiday meals!