11 leftover turkey recipe ideas
The festive season often leaves us with abundant leftovers, and turkey is a prime example. Instead of settling for mundane sandwiches, why not transform it into a culinary delight?
Many dishes that use chicken can be easily adapted to use leftover turkey, so dig out your favourite chicken recipes and give them a turkey twist. But remember that since the turkey is already cooked, cooking times may need to be adjusted to avoid overcooking the meat.
For instant inspiration, here are some inventive and flavourful ways to use up your leftover turkey.
Leftover Turkey Pie
A classic pie is the perfect dish for chilly evenings. Combine shredded turkey with sautéed vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions, then mix with a creamy white sauce for richness. Layer the mixture into a pie dish and top with buttery puff pastry, sealing the edges well. Bake until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Serve with a side of steamed greens for a complete, hearty meal. This comforting dish is a wonderful way to make the most of your turkey leftovers while warming up on a cold night.
Read more: Deep-filled Leftover Turkey Pie Recipe
Leftover Turkey Curry
Spice things up with a fragrant turkey curry. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan until softened, then add curry spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander for warmth and depth. Stir in a tin of tomatoes, creamy coconut milk, and shredded turkey, allowing the flavours to meld together as it simmers. Once the curry is rich and aromatic, serve it with fluffy basmati rice and warm naan bread for a satisfying meal. This easy and comforting dish is a perfect way to use up your turkey leftovers with a bold, spicy twist.
Read more: Saiphin Moore’s Turkey Green Curry Recipe
Turkey Caesar Salad
For a lighter option, turn your leftover turkey into a fresh and satisfying Caesar salad. Toss shredded turkey with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Drizzle with a creamy Caesar dressing and toss everything together for a balanced, flavourful dish. To add a touch of extra texture and flavour, finish with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits. This easy-to-make salad is a great way to enjoy your turkey leftovers while keeping things light yet delicious.
Turkey Chowder
Warm up with a comforting bowl of turkey chowder (chowder is a thick, creamy soup made with potatoes and onions). Start by sautéing diced onion and celery until soft, then add cubed potatoes and chicken stock, allowing them to simmer until tender. Stir in the cooked turkey, letting the flavours meld together. For a velvety finish, add a splash of cream and stir until smooth. Serve the chowder with crusty bread on the side for dipping, making it a satisfying and hearty meal that’s perfect for using up your turkey leftovers.
Turkey Enchiladas
Bring a Tex-Mex twist to your leftovers. Start by sautéing sliced peppers and onions until soft and fragrant, then mix them with shredded turkey for a delicious filling. Spoon the mixture into soft flour tortillas, roll them up tightly, and arrange them seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour over a generous helping of enchilada sauce – shop-bought or homemade works equally well – and sprinkle with plenty of grated cheese. Pop it in the oven and bake until the cheese is golden and bubbling. To serve, garnish with fresh coriander and a dollop of cool sour cream on the side.
Turkey Egg Fried Rice
Stir-fry cooked rice with diced turkey, peas, carrots, and finely sliced spring onions in a hot pan or wok. Add a splash of soy sauce and a drizzle of sesame oil for savoury depth and nuttiness. Spoon the rice into bowls and, if you fancy, top each serving with a fried egg for a touch of richness. For extra flavour, sprinkle with sesame seeds or a dash of chilli flakes. Whether you add the egg or not, this dish is a simple and satisfying way to bring fresh flavours to your festive leftovers.
Turkey Panini Sandwich
Elevate the classic turkey sandwich by adding a layer of tangy cranberry sauce, a generous spoonful of stuffing, and a slice of creamy Brie. Place the ingredients between two pieces of panini bread, then toast it until golden and melty for a festive treat that’s perfect for a quick lunch. Don’t have a sandwich toaster or panini press? Simply pop it in the oven for 5 to 10 minutes until the bread is crisp and the cheese is deliciously melted. This simple yet indulgent sandwich makes a satisfying way to use up your turkey leftovers.
Turkey Ramen
Give your turkey leftovers a Japanese twist with a comforting bowl of homemade ramen. Start by simmering turkey stock with soy sauce, miso paste, and garlic for a rich, savoury base. Add cooked noodles and shredded turkey, letting them soak up the flavours. Top with your favourite additions like soft-boiled eggs, crispy seaweed, and fresh spring onions for extra texture and taste. This warming dish is a great way to transform your turkey into a hearty meal with bold, satisfying flavours.
Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Swap minced meat for shredded turkey in this comforting British classic. Start by sautéing vegetables like onions, carrots, and peas, then mix with the turkey for a hearty filling. Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and top with creamy mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly to cover. Bake in the oven until the top is golden brown and crispy. This warming dish is a great way to make the most of your turkey leftovers, providing a satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Turkey Risotto
Make a creamy turkey risotto for a comforting dinner. Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then stir in Arborio rice and a splash of white wine. Gradually add hot stock, stirring constantly until the rice is tender and creamy. Once the risotto is cooked, fold in shredded turkey and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese for richness. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of colour and flavour. This dish is a perfect way to enjoy your turkey leftovers in a hearty, satisfying meal.
Turkey Pizza
Start by spreading a thin layer of tomato sauce over a pizza base, then top with shredded turkey, sliced red onions, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. For extra flavour, add a handful of fresh herbs like basil or oregano and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and melted. You can also experiment with other toppings like cranberry sauce for a festive twist or a sprinkle of chilli flakes for a bit of heat. This simple yet tasty pizza is a great way to enjoy your leftovers.
When it comes to storing leftover turkey for use at a later date, think about the following:
- Refrigeration: Store turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Freezing: If you’re not ready to use it immediately, freeze turkey in portion-sized bags for up to three months.
- Stock Making: Use the turkey carcass to create a rich stock, perfect for soups and stews.
With these ideas, leftover turkey can become the star of countless dishes, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Get creative and enjoy a range of flavours well beyond the holiday season!
The post Tasty recipe ideas to help make the most of leftover turkey appeared first on The Oxford Magazine.
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