Turkey Meat Recipes: Delicious Ways to Use Leftover Turkey

Ah, the aftermath of a glorious roast turkey dinner. The table is cleared, the remnants of gravy have been wiped clean, and you’re left with a mountain of leftover turkey. It's a moment of both triumph and a bit of a culinary puzzle. Don't fret! Leftover turkey is a gift, not a burden. It's a blank canvas for a whole world of delicious dishes, ready to be transformed into something even more exciting than the original roast.

I'm going to share some of my favourite ways to use up leftover turkey, from classic comfort food to more adventurous dishes that'll make you forget you ever had a boring leftover problem. You'll be surprised at just how versatile this humble bird can be.

I used to be one of those people who'd shove the leftover turkey in the fridge and then forget about it until it was starting to get a bit, shall we say, questionable. But then, one day, I had a revelation. What a waste! So I started experimenting, and soon, I was transforming those leftovers into all sorts of amazing meals. I'm here to share my hard-earned wisdom, so you can do the same.

Let's get started!

(Part 1) The Basics: Storing and Prepping Your Leftover Turkey

Before we embark on culinary adventures, we need to ensure our leftover turkey is stored correctly. This is crucial to keep it fresh and safe to eat, preventing any unwanted surprises later.

Storing Your Leftover Turkey

food safety is paramount, and leftover turkey is no exception. Here's my tried-and-true method for storage:

1. Cool It Down: The first rule is to let the turkey cool down completely before putting it in the fridge. Don't be tempted to rush it! You can leave it on the counter for a couple of hours, or speed up the process by placing it in a cold water bath.
2. Container Up: Once the turkey is cool, transfer it to airtight containers or wrap it tightly in cling film. You can also use reusable freezer bags, which are great for portioning. Whatever container you choose, make sure it's labelled with the date – trust me, your future self will thank you!
3. Refrigerate ASAP: Pop those containers into the refrigerator, set to 4°C (40°F) or below. Aim to use the leftover turkey within 3-4 days for the best flavour and quality.

Prepping Your Leftover Turkey

With your leftover turkey safely stored, it's time to get ready for the fun part – cooking! Here's my usual prepping routine:

1. Remove the Skin: I usually remove the skin from the turkey before using it in recipes. It helps to prevent dishes from being too greasy, and it makes for a lighter, less fatty meal.
2. Carve and Chop: I like to carve the turkey into bite-sized pieces. It makes it easier to work with, especially if you're making something like a soup or stir-fry. You can adjust the size of the pieces depending on the recipe you're making.
3. Freeze It: If you have more leftover turkey than you can use in a few days, don't despair! You can freeze it for later use. Freezing in portions is a great idea, so you can easily thaw out just what you need for a particular recipe.

(Part 2) Classic Comfort: turkey sandwiches

Let’s start with a classic – the turkey sandwich. It's a timeless favourite for a reason: it's quick, easy, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner. And with leftover turkey, it's a delicious way to make the most of your roast.

The Ultimate Turkey Sandwich

Here's my go-to turkey sandwich recipe. It's simple but oh so delicious:

1. The Bread: I’m a sourdough fan, but you can use any type of bread you like. Choose a bread that complements the flavours of the turkey. A good crusty bread is ideal, but a soft loaf works just as well.
2. The Filling: This is where the magic happens! I layer on a generous amount of leftover turkey, a few slices of crisp lettuce for crunch, a couple of juicy tomato slices for sweetness, some thinly sliced red onion for tang, and a dollop of creamy mayonnaise for richness.
3. The Finishing Touches: A sprinkle of black pepper and a pinch of salt are essential to round out the flavours. You can also add a little mustard if you fancy a bit of extra zing.

Variations on a Theme

Don't be afraid to get creative with your turkey sandwich! There are endless variations to explore:

1. Go for a Creamy Twist: Instead of mayonnaise, try spreading some cranberry sauce or a dollop of Dijon mustard on the bread. It adds a lovely sweetness and tang that complements the turkey perfectly.
2. Add Some Crunch: Throw in some crunchy vegetables like celery or cucumber for some textural contrast. They'll add a refreshing element to your sandwich.
3. Go for a Grilled Option: Toast the bread lightly for a crispy, warm sandwich. It’s a nice change from the usual and adds a satisfying crunch.

(Part 3) Soup’s On: Turkey Noodle Soup

When it’s cold outside, there's nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of turkey noodle soup. It's warm, nourishing, and a perfect way to use up leftover turkey. This soup is a real crowd-pleaser, especially when you're feeling a bit under the weather.

My Favourite Turkey Noodle Soup Recipe

Here's my recipe for a delicious turkey noodle soup. I've been making it for years, and it's always a hit:

1. The Broth: I start with a good quality chicken broth, but you can also use vegetable broth if you prefer. The base is key, so choose a broth you love.
2. The Vegetables: I add a mix of chopped carrots, celery, and onions. For a bit of extra flavour, I sometimes throw in some chopped mushrooms or peas. You can also get creative with other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach.
3. The Turkey: I add the chopped leftover turkey to the soup about 30 minutes before serving. This ensures the turkey cooks through but doesn't become dry and tough.
4. The Noodles: I use egg noodles, but you can use any kind of noodles you like, from thin spaghetti to wider ribbons. Adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you use.
5. Seasoning: I season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried thyme. You can also add a bay leaf or some parsley if you like. Other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or marjoram would also be delicious additions.

Adding Your Own Touch

There are so many ways to personalize your turkey noodle soup. Feel free to experiment and add your own twist:

1. Spruce It Up: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top for extra creaminess and flavour. Try different types of cheese, from classic cheddar to a sharp parmesan or a creamy brie.
2. Get Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
3. Experiment with Herbs: Use different herbs like rosemary, oregano, or marjoram for a different flavour profile. Fresh herbs are always best, but dried herbs will also do the trick.

(Part 4) A Culinary Adventure: Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Turkey shepherd's pie is a twist on the classic dish that elevates it to new heights. It's hearty, flavourful, and a great way to use up leftover turkey. This is a dish that's sure to impress your family and friends.

My Go-To Recipe

Here's my recipe for turkey shepherd's pie. It's a bit of a labour of love, but it's worth it! It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening.

1. The Filling: I start by sauteing some chopped onions, carrots, and celery in a pan with a little butter or oil. Then, I add the chopped turkey and cook it through. I season it with salt, pepper, and some dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavour.
2. The Topping: For the topping, I mash some potatoes with a bit of butter and milk. I season it with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of nutmeg. You can add a bit of cream cheese for a richer, smoother texture, or even a dollop of sour cream for a tangy twist.
3. Assembly: I spread the turkey filling in a baking dish, and top it with the mashed potatoes. I bake it in the oven until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. It’s important to ensure the filling is cooked through before adding the mashed potato topping.

Tips for Success

Here are a few tips to make your turkey shepherd's pie even better:

1. Don’t Overcook the Turkey: You want the turkey to be cooked through, but not dry. If it starts to dry out, add a bit of broth or water to the pan to keep it moist.
2. Use Good Quality Potatoes: The quality of your potatoes will really affect the flavour of your shepherd's pie. Choose starchy potatoes, such as maris piper or king edward, for the best results.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Add a bit of Worcestershire sauce, a dollop of gravy, or some cheese to the filling for extra flavour. You can also add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs to the mashed potato topping for a bit of crunch.

(Part 5) Stir-Fry Fun: Turkey Stir-Fry

Looking for a quick and easy meal that’s also healthy and flavourful? A turkey stir-fry is the perfect solution. It's incredibly versatile, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand and customize it to your taste. This is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.

A Stir-Fry for Every Taste

Here’s a basic recipe you can tailor to your taste:

1. The Vegetables: I use a mix of vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and onions. You can use whatever you like, though. Some other good options include snap peas, mushrooms, zucchini, or even bok choy.
2. The Sauce: I like to use a simple soy sauce, honey, and ginger sauce. But you can use any stir-fry sauce you like, from teriyaki to peanut sauce to a spicy sriracha sauce.
3. The Turkey: I add the chopped leftover turkey to the stir-fry towards the end of cooking. It cooks quickly, so you don't want to overcook it. Just a few minutes is enough for it to heat through.
4. Serve it Up: Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles. brown rice, quinoa, or even spaghetti noodles would be delicious options.

Tips for Perfect Stir-Fry

Here are some tips for making the most delicious turkey stir-fry:

1. Cut the Vegetables Uniformly: This will help them cook evenly. Slice vegetables into similar-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If the pan is too crowded, the vegetables will steam instead of stir-fry. Use a large pan or wok to ensure there’s enough space for everything to cook properly.
3. Cook the Turkey Quickly: You don't want to overcook the turkey. It should be cooked through but still juicy. Just a few minutes in the pan is usually enough.

(Part 6) A Bit of Pizzazz: Turkey Quiche

Turkey quiche is a delicious and elegant way to use up leftover turkey. It’s great for brunch, a light dinner, or even a sophisticated lunch. It's a dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a casual gathering.

My quiche recipe

Here’s my go-to recipe for a delicious turkey quiche:

1. The Crust: I use a pre-made pie crust for convenience, but you can make your own if you like. If you're feeling ambitious, try making a flaky pastry crust from scratch.
2. The Filling: I sauté some chopped onions, garlic, and mushrooms in a pan with a little butter or oil. Then I add the chopped leftover turkey, and a splash of cream. You can also add some chopped spinach, kale, or asparagus for extra flavour and texture.
3. The Eggs: I whisk together some eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. I pour this mixture over the turkey and vegetable filling. For extra richness, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture.
4. Bake It: I bake the quiche in the oven until the eggs are set and the crust is golden brown. It’s important to bake the quiche slowly and evenly for the best results.

quiche variations

You can easily customize your turkey quiche. Here are some ideas:

1. Add Some Cheese: Grate some cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss cheese over the filling before baking. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese would also be delicious.
2. Get a Bit of Crunch: Add some chopped spinach, kale, or asparagus to the filling for a bit of texture. These greens will add a delicious earthy flavour to the quiche.
3. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a bit of heat. If you want a milder heat, use paprika or a pinch of cumin.

(Part 7) Get Your Fill: Turkey Enchiladas

Turkey enchiladas are a fun and flavourful way to use up leftover turkey. They're a great way to add a bit of Mexican flair to your meal, and they're always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and comforting.

The Enchilada Recipe

Here’s my recipe for turkey enchiladas. It’s a simple but delicious dish that’s always a hit:

1. The Filling: I start by sautéing some chopped onions, peppers, and garlic in a pan with a little oil. Then I add the chopped leftover turkey and cook it through. I season it with salt, pepper, and a bit of chili powder. You can also add some cumin, oregano, or paprika for extra flavour.
2. The Sauce: I make a simple enchilada sauce with canned tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, and oregano. You can use a store-bought enchilada sauce for convenience, or try making your own.
3. Assembly: I fill the tortillas with the turkey filling and top them with the sauce. I bake them in the oven until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is melted. You can use any type of cheese you like, from cheddar to Monterey Jack to a blend of Mexican cheeses.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips for making delicious turkey enchiladas:

1. Use Good Quality Tortillas: I prefer corn tortillas, but you can use flour tortillas if you like. You can also use smaller tortillas, such as taquitos, if you prefer.
2. Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: If you overfill them, they’ll be difficult to roll and may break.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment: Add some shredded cheese, black beans, or corn to the filling for extra flavour and texture. You can also add a sprinkle of cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice for a fresh flavour.

(Part 8) A Bit of Everything: turkey pot pie

Turkey pot pie is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter night. It’s a great way to use up leftover turkey and a variety of vegetables, and it's a dish that's sure to warm you up from the inside out. It's a classic comfort food that's always a crowd-pleaser.

My Pot Pie Recipe

Here’s my go-to recipe for turkey pot pie. It’s a bit time-consuming but well worth the effort! It's a dish that’s both visually appealing and incredibly delicious.

1. The Filling: I start by sauteing some chopped onions, carrots, and celery in a pan with a little butter or oil. Then, I add the chopped leftover turkey and cook it through. I season it with salt, pepper, and some dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano. You can also add a splash of chicken broth to the pan for extra moisture.
2. The Sauce: I make a creamy sauce with butter, flour, and chicken broth. I season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. For a richer sauce, you can use heavy cream instead of chicken broth.
3. The Crust: I use a pre-made pie crust for convenience, but you can make your own if you like. If you're feeling ambitious, try making a flaky pastry crust from scratch.
4. Assembly: I pour the turkey and vegetable filling into the pie crust and top it with another crust. I bake it in the oven until the crust is golden brown. You can also use a lattice crust for a more decorative look.

Making it Your Own

You can easily customize your turkey pot pie. Here are some ideas:

1. Add Some Greens: Add some chopped spinach, kale, or peas to the filling for extra nutrients. You can also use other vegetables, such as mushrooms, potatoes, or zucchini.
2. Go for a Cheesy Twist: Add some shredded cheese to the filling before baking for extra flavour and richness. Try cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss cheese.
3. Get Creative with the Crust: Use a puff pastry crust or a lattice crust for a more decorative look. You can also use a biscuit dough for a lighter and flakier crust.

(Part 9) Beyond the Basics: Leftover Turkey Beyond the Plate

Leftover turkey isn’t just for savoury dishes. It can also be used in sweet treats, adding a unique twist to your baking. It's a delicious and unexpected way to use up your leftovers.

Sweet and Savoury

Here’s a simple recipe for a turkey and cranberry muffin. It’s a bit of a surprise, but it's truly delicious. It's a perfect blend of sweet and savoury flavours.

1. The Base: Start with your favourite muffin recipe. You can use a basic muffin recipe or try a more elaborate recipe with additional ingredients.
2. The Turkey: Incorporate finely chopped leftover turkey into the batter, adding a savoury touch. This will add a subtle meatiness to the muffins.
3. The Sweetness: Add some dried cranberries or chopped pecans to the batter for a balanced sweetness. You can also use other dried fruits, such as raisins or apricots.
4. Bake: Bake the muffins according to your recipe instructions. Let them cool completely before serving.

You can even get more creative by using leftover turkey in your favourite soup or stew recipes. Try adding it to a lentil soup or a hearty vegetable stew. It adds a delicious protein boost and a bit of unique flavour. Just be sure to finely chop the turkey so it blends well with the other ingredients.

(Part 10) FAQs: Your Leftover Turkey Questions Answered

Here are some common questions about leftover turkey and how to use it. Let's clear up any lingering doubts and put your mind at ease.

1. How long can I keep leftover turkey in the fridge? Leftover turkey can be safely kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in cling film. It's important to note that the quality will gradually decline over time, so it's best to use it sooner rather than later.
2. Can I freeze leftover turkey? Yes, you can freeze leftover turkey for up to 2-3 months. I recommend freezing it in portions to make it easier to use later. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
3. What’s the best way to reheat leftover turkey? You can reheat leftover turkey in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. If you’re reheating it in the oven or microwave, make sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out. For the stovetop, gently reheat the turkey in a pan with a little broth or water.
4. Can I use leftover turkey in a salad? Absolutely! Leftover turkey can add a great protein boost to your salad. You can add it to a classic chicken salad, or use it in a more adventurous salad with greens, nuts, and dried cranberries.
5. What other recipes can I make with leftover turkey? There are endless possibilities! You can make turkey tacos, turkey pot roast, turkey curry, or even turkey pasta salad. Get creative and experiment with different flavours and cuisines.

(Part 11) The Final Word

There you have it! Now you know that leftover turkey isn’t a burden. It’s a culinary adventure waiting to happen! So, get creative and have fun with it! There’s a world of delicious possibilities awaiting you.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to make myself a delicious turkey and cranberry muffin. I think I’ve earned a treat after all this talk about leftover turkey. I hope you enjoy exploring the exciting world of leftover turkey recipes!