Leftovers from Thanksgiving can be repurposed into delicious meals to enjoy for the next few days. Here are some creative ideas for what to do with Thanksgiving leftovers:
- Turkey Sandwiches: Make classic turkey sandwiches with slices of turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a little mayo. You can use leftover rolls or bread from Thanksgiving dinner.
- Turkey Pot Pie: Create a comforting pot pie using leftover turkey, vegetables, and gravy. Place the mixture in a pie crust and bake until golden brown.
- Turkey Soup: Use the turkey carcass to make a hearty soup. Simmer the bones with vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions to create a flavorful broth. Add in leftover turkey and any additional vegetables or noodles.
- Stuffing Muffins: Press leftover stuffing into muffin tins and bake until they form crispy muffin-shaped servings. They’re great for individual portions and can be served with a dollop of cranberry sauce.
- Cranberry Sauce Parfait: Layer cranberry sauce with yogurt or whipped cream for a festive parfait. Add granola or crushed nuts for some crunch.
- Mashed Potato Pancakes: Mix mashed potatoes with an egg and some flour, then fry them into pancakes. Serve with leftover gravy for a tasty twist.
- Shepherd’s Pie: Layer the bottom of a casserole dish with leftover turkey and vegetables, and top with a layer of mashed potatoes. Bake until the top is golden brown.
- Thanksgiving Quesadillas: Fill tortillas with turkey, stuffing, and cheese, then heat them on a griddle or in a pan until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
- Cranberry Turkey Salad: Combine leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, and any greens you have on hand to create a refreshing salad. Add some nuts or cheese for extra flavor.
- Turkey and Gravy Poutine: Poutine is a Canadian dish that involves fries topped with cheese curds and covered in gravy. Add shredded turkey for a Thanksgiving-inspired twist.
- Leftover Pizza: Use a pizza crust or flatbread as a base and top it with turkey, stuffing, and any other leftovers. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Turkey and Cranberry Quesadillas: Spread cranberry sauce on a tortilla, add turkey, stuffing, and cheese, then fold and cook on a griddle for a tasty quesadilla.
Remember to store leftovers properly in the refrigerator and consume them within a few days to ensure freshness and safety. Enjoy your creative Thanksgiving leftover creations!