20 Healthy Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes

Wondering what to do with all that leftover turkey? This collection of 20 healthy leftover Thanksgiving turkey recipes has you covered with easy, healthy, and creative ways to turn your holiday extras into meals you'll actually look forward to eating. From cozy soups and casseroles to fresh salads and wraps, these recipes make post-holiday cooking simple and delicious.

Every year, I tell myself I'll buy a smaller turkey - and every year, I end up with way too many leftovers! But honestly, I don't mind, because leftover turkey is the best excuse to get creative in the kitchen.

Whether you turn it into a hearty soup or toss it into a quick skillet meal, these recipes make that Thanksgiving turkey stretch for days (without anyone getting bored).

Why I Love Leftover Turkey Recipes

Turkey is one of those ingredients that's just as good the next day. It's lean, high in protein, and works in so many recipes - from creamy casseroles to lighter salads and soups. These ideas are all about using what you already have on hand to create something fresh, flavorful, and easy.

Buying a turkey any time of year is a great way to have inexpensive, lean protein you can meal prep for your week.

1

Leftover Turkey Chili

This leftover turkey chili is a hearty and flavorful way to turn holiday leftovers into a brand new cozy meal. It is warm, satisfying, and perfect for cold days after Thanksgiving.

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2

Leftover Turkey and Sweet Potato Frittata

Leftover turkey, sweet potatoes, spinach and Gruyere cheese - trust me, you'll want to save some Thanksgiving turkey because this breakfast frittata is SO good!

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3

Turkey Pot Pie, Lightened Up

This turkey pot pie has a flaky crust and creamy filling loaded with vegetables and tender turkey. It is comforting, classic, and guaranteed to become a next-day tradition.

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4

A Healthier Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini

This lighter turkey tetrazzini is a creamy baked pasta that transforms your leftover turkey into pure comfort food. It is family friendly, delicious, and easy to assemble for a next-day dinner.

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5

Lighter Turkey Casserole

This turkey casserole is a wholesome and veggie filled twist on a classic leftover bake. It is creamy, cozy, and perfect for using up turkey without feeling heavy.

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6

Leftover Turkey Dinner Tacos

These leftover turkey tacos are a fun way to remix your holiday meal with bold flavors and fresh toppings. They come together fast and make dinner feel exciting again.

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7

Leftover Turkey Chopped Salad

This chopped turkey salad is crisp, colorful, and packed with fresh ingredients for a lighter post-holiday meal. It is a refreshing break from heavy leftovers and works for lunch or dinner.

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8

Turkey Salad

Use your Thanksgiving extras to make this leftover turkey salad with cranberries, apples and creamy Greek yogurt dressing. Easy and delish!

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9

Leftover Turkey Harvest Cobb Salad

This harvest cobb salad is a fresh and colorful way to use leftover turkey with seasonal toppings and a bright dressing. It is light, delicious, and perfect when you are craving something crisp after the feast.

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10

Healthy Turkey Salad Wraps

This healthy turkey wrap is quick to assemble and loaded with fresh veggies for a balanced lunch. It is simple, portable, and a delicious way to enjoy leftovers on a busy day.

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11

Healthy Leftover Turkey Wild Rice Soup with Vegetables

This leftover turkey soup is warm, wholesome, and packed with vegetables in a flavorful broth. It is a cozy pick for chilly days and stretches your leftovers beautifully.

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12

Leftover Turkey Patties Recipe

These leftover turkey patties are pan seared and seasoned to perfection for an easy protein packed meal. They are simple to make and pair well with any side dish.

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13

Turkey Soup with Kale and Sweet Potatoes

This slow cooker turkey soup is hearty and nourishing with sweet potatoes, kale, and tender turkey. It simmers into a flavorful bowl that tastes nothing like leftovers.

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14

Turkey Pita Sandwiches (with Cranberry Salsa)

This leftover turkey pita is a fresh handheld option with flavorful toppings wrapped in soft pita bread. It is healthy, fast, and perfect for lunch after a big feast.

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15

Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Empanadas

These turkey pot pie empanadas are golden, handheld pockets filled with comforting turkey and vegetable goodness. They are fun to eat and a great game plan for leftover meat.

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16

Leftover Cranberry Turkey Sandwich

This cranberry turkey sandwich layers sweet, tangy, and savory flavors into one irresistible bite. It is the ultimate post-Thanksgiving sandwich and takes minutes to make.

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17

Thanksgiving Leftovers Turkey Wraps Recipe

These turkey wraps are an easy way to roll leftover holiday flavors into a fun lunch. They are fast, tasty, and great for feeding a crowd the next day.

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18

Turkey Banh Mi Recipe

This turkey banh mi is a fresh and flavorful twist with pickled veggies, herbs, and crusty bread. It gives leftover turkey bold new life with vibrant Vietnamese inspired flavor.

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19

Turkey Thai Curry

This turkey Thai curry is creamy, aromatic, and full of warm spices for a globally inspired leftover meal. It is a delicious change of pace that comes together easily on the stovetop.

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20

Turkey Pibil Tamales

These turkey pibil tamales transform leftovers into a completely new dish wrapped in flavorful masa. They are packed with rich spices and make an unforgettable post-holiday meal.

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FAQs

How long is leftover turkey good for?

Cooked turkey will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

What's the best way to reheat leftover turkey?

Reheat turkey gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving on high heat, which can dry it out.

Can I freeze leftover turkey?

Yes! Slice or shred the turkey first, then store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It's perfect for quick soups, casseroles, and skillet meals later on.

What can I make with leftover turkey besides sandwiches?

Try soups, casseroles, wraps, salads, and pasta dishes - leftover turkey works well in most recipes that call for cooked chicken.