How to Make Delicious Meals Using Thanksgiving Leftovers
The best part of Thanksgiving might actually be the leftovers. With turkey, stuffing, veggies, rolls, cranberries, and pies sitting in the fridge, you’ve basically got meal prep done for days. Let me share some easy ways for turning Thanksgiving leftovers into Delicious meals you’ll actually look forward to eating.
1. Build a Thanksgiving Leftovers Board
Arrange items charcuterie-style:
- sliced turkey or ham
- rolls or cornbread
- cheese cubes
- cranberry sauce
- leftover veggies
- nuts + dips
2. Turn Turkey into New Proteins
Leftover turkey can replace chicken in almost any recipe. Try:
- Turkey enchiladas (finish with green sauce + Monterey Jack)
- Turkey fried rice (use veggies + leftover ham too)
- Turkey noodle soup (great for freezing)
- BBQ pulled turkey sandwiches
Freeze shredded turkey in 1–2 cup portions for easy meals later.
3. Make Casseroles That Use Multiple Leftovers at Once
Easy Thanksgiving Layer Bake
- Layer stuffing → turkey → gravy → mashed potatoes
- Bake until hot and golden
- Top with cranberry sauce when serving
4. Reinvent Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are incredibly versatile. Try…
- Mashed potato pancakes (pan-fry with cheese + chives)
- Loaded potato casserole (bake with bacon + cheddar)
- Shepherd’s pie topping
5. Use Stuffing Like a Crust
Press stuffing into a pan or muffin tin → bake until crisp → fill with turkey, gravy, eggs, or veggies.
Other Options…
- Stuffing breakfast strata
- Stuffing meatballs
6. Transform Cranberry Sauce
- spread on grilled cheese
- mix into yogurt or oatmeal
- whisk into salad dressing
7. Repurpose Rolls & Bread
Leftover rolls revive beautifully with heat, or you can turn them into….
- Bread pudding (sweet or savory)
- French toast casserole
- Mini slider buns
- Croutons or breadcrumbs
8. Freeze Leftovers Properly
Freezer rules:
| Food | Freezer Life |
|---|---|
| Shredded turkey | 2–3 months |
| Mashed potatoes | 2 months |
| Cranberry sauce | 6 months |
| Stuffing | 3 months |
| Pie slices | 1–2 months |
LABEL everything with dates so you don’t rediscover mystery turkey in April.
Thanksgiving leftovers are more than an afterthought—they’re a chance to stretch your feast into days of comforting, creative meals. With a little inspiration, turkey can become tacos, stuffing can turn into crispy waffle sandwiches, and cranberry sauce can transform into sauces, spreads, desserts, and drinks.
Instead of reheating the same plate on repeat, use these ideas to reinvent, repurpose, and enjoy the holiday flavors long after the guests go home.
ENJOY THE HOLIDAY SEASON!!
