Go Back
featured image 12298

Before You Shop — Check This List → "Before You Shop — Check Your Leftover Turkey Recipes" - A Practical, Delicious Plan

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Leftover turkey: 3–4 cups, shredded or chopped
  • Aromatics: 1 onion, 3–4 garlic cloves, 2 celery stalks, 2 carrots
  • Broth or stock: 4–6 cups (chicken or turkey)
  • Pasta or grains: 12 ounces short pasta, or 2 cups cooked rice/quinoa
  • Dairy: 1 cup cream or half-and-half, 1 cup milk, 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella), 2 tablespoons butter
  • Pantry staples: Olive oil, flour or cornstarch, Dijon mustard, canned tomatoes (14 ounces), tortilla wraps, canned beans (optional), breadcrumbs (optional)
  • Fresh produce: Mixed greens or romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado (optional), lemon or lime
  • Herbs and spices: Salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning or dried oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes (optional), fresh parsley or cilantro
  • Extras for flavor: Parmesan, hot sauce, salsa, Greek yogurt or sour cream

Method
 

  1. Creamy One-Pan Turkey Pasta Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet. Sauté chopped onion and 2 garlic cloves until soft.
  2. Stir in 12 ounces short pasta, 3 cups broth, and a pinch of salt. Simmer, stirring, until pasta is just tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  3. Add 2 cups shredded turkey, 1/2 cup cream, 1/2 cup milk, 1 teaspoon Dijon, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Stir until creamy. Season with pepper and a squeeze of lemon.
  4. Finish: Top with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  5. Comforting Turkey and Veggie Soup Sauté onion, celery, and carrots in a pot with olive oil until softened. Add 2 minced garlic cloves.
  6. Pour in 6 cups broth, 1 can tomatoes (optional), 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes.
  7. Add 2 cups turkey and 1 cup small pasta or 2 cups cooked rice. Simmer until tender.
  8. Finish: Add a handful of greens or parsley, and a splash of lemon for brightness.
  9. Chopped Turkey Salad Bowl Chop romaine or mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
  10. Add 1.5–2 cups chopped turkey and any cooked grains you have.
  11. Toss with a quick dressing: 3 tablespoons olive oil, juice of 1 lemon or lime, 1 teaspoon Dijon, salt, and pepper. Add herbs if you have them.
  12. Tip: Sprinkle with feta or Parmesan and toasted nuts for crunch.
  13. Cheesy Turkey Quesadillas Heat a skillet over medium. Place a tortilla, sprinkle cheese, add turkey, and a spoon of salsa or sautéed onions/peppers.
  14. Fold and cook until golden on both sides and the cheese melts.
  15. Serve: With Greek yogurt or sour cream, hot sauce, and lime.