Thanksgiving and Christmas will, for many of us, look a little different this year.
For many of us, the big family get togethers, with a large turkey and all the trimmings, will be off the cards. Perhaps you are thinking of opting for a smaller turkey, or cooking something completely different altogether.
Before you finalise your plans (I realize, I am late in this – family life took over the past few weeks) – I just want to say this: leftover turkey is wonderful!
If you have a little more of it this year, then all the better! There are so many fantastic ways to use up your leftovers, and of course you’ll be helping those farmers, who like so many of us, couldn’t have comprehended the effects of the global pandemic on their business. As a farmer’s daughter, this is something very close to my heart – I’ve seen first-hand the devastating effects of unforeseen events on this industry.
So, if you do stick to your turkey plans this year (or even buy a larger one!), below you will find a roundup of delicious and easy turkey leftover recipes; from both my kitchen and my talented group of blogger friends – I know I’ll be using them and my family will love the results!!
The great thing about cooking with leftovers:
- It saves you time in the long run!
- It’s a budget friendly way of cooking.
As I always buy a larger turkey than we actually need at Christmas, one that would feed double the amount of people; one year I even bought triple the size – but I have to admit, that wasn’t completely intended…To me, Christmas wouldn’t be the same without mountains of turkey, and wondering how to use it up!
FAQ
How long does cook turkey last in the fridge?
Cooled properly and placed in the fridge within a couple of hours, covered, within a couple of hours, it will keep for up to 3 days.Â
Can I freeze leftover turkey?
Yes you can. To freeze: cool the turkey, then slice into slices/chunks and wrap well. It will keep in the freezer for up to 6 months, although is generally considered best eaten within two to three months.
Defrost thoroughly before using it, and ensure it’s piping hot in the middle.
Tip:Â Enjoy cold turkey in sandwiches or salads that hasn’t been frozen. Frozen turkey tastes best reheated in hot dishes.
For more info on storing and reheating leftovers: If you’re in the UK, the Food Standards Agency, if you’re in the USA, the FDA, and Australia/NZ, the Food Standards
What can I make with leftover turkey?
Sandwiches and salads, curries, soups, pastas and casseroles, and more! – check out these easy and delicious leftover turkey recipes to try:
Leftover Turkey Banh Mi Baguette
Turkey Fritters
Easy Leftover Turkey Curry
Creamy Turkey Corn Chowder
Turkey Salad with Noodles and Vietnamese Dressing
Turkey Turnovers with Cranberry and Cheese
Turkey Sliders
Leftover Turkey Hand Pies
Leftover Turkey Quinoa Salad
Cheesy Broccoli, Turkey and Rice Casserole
Turkey Salad + Raspberry Vinaigrette
Leftover Turkey Alfredo Skillet Meal
Cheesy Baked Turkey Enchiladas
Turkey Butternut Squash Soup
Cranberry Turkey Salad on Croissants
Easy leftover turkey casserole recipe with mayonnaise
Fragrant Moroccan Turkey Stew
Air fryer turkey, goat cheese and pesto sandwich
Turkey and rice soup
Leftover Turkey Chilli
Leftover Turkey Tortilla Soup
Leftover Turkey Bake
Leftover Turkey Ramen
Cheese, Bacon and Turkey Quiche
Turkey and Noodles
10 Minute Leftover Turkey Quesadilla
And, although not strictly a turkey leftover recipes; every year, I always make this chicken pie using leftover turkey – something I began making on cold winter days, and now have to even on hot sunny Australian summer days 😉 Add some leftover stuffing or a spoonful of bread sauce, and you have one very special pie!
Creamy Chicken Pie
Robyn x
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Let me know your thoughts!