After the holiday feast, leftover turkey can quickly become the star ingredient in a variety of delicious and creative lunch recipes.
Instead of letting those precious turkey leftovers go to waste, why not transform them into exciting meals that the whole family will enjoy?
From hearty soups and casseroles to fresh salads and sandwiches, these 30+ leftover turkey lunch recipes offer easy, flavorful ways to repurpose turkey into satisfying midday meals.
Whether you’re craving something warm and comforting or light and fresh, this collection has you covered with ideas that save time, reduce food waste, and keep holiday flavors alive long after the big day.
30+ Easy and Flavorful Leftover Turkey Lunch Recipes
With so many creative and tasty leftover turkey lunch recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy that holiday bird again.
These recipes prove that turkey isn’t just for one special meal—it’s a versatile protein that can be reinvented into comforting soups, vibrant salads, savory sandwiches, and much more.
Whether you prefer quick and simple dishes or something a bit more indulgent, this collection offers something for every taste and occasion.
So next time you find yourself with leftover turkey, try one of these recipes and make your lunches both delicious and resourceful.
Turkey and Cranberry Wrap
This turkey and cranberry wrap is a quick, flavorful way to reinvent your leftover turkey into a fresh, handheld meal.
Combining savory turkey with the sweet tang of cranberry sauce, crisp lettuce, and creamy cheese, this wrap delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes.
It’s ideal for a casual lunch or an on-the-go option that doesn’t sacrifice holiday flavor.
Ingredients:
- Large flour tortillas
- Sliced leftover turkey
- Cranberry sauce
- Leafy lettuce
- Cream cheese or mayonnaise
- Sliced cucumbers or apples (optional)
Instructions:
Spread cream cheese or mayonnaise evenly over the tortilla. Layer slices of turkey, a spoonful of cranberry sauce, lettuce, and cucumber or apple slices if using. Roll up tightly, slice in half, and serve immediately or wrap for later.
This wrap breathes new life into turkey leftovers, turning them into a colorful and satisfying lunch that feels festive yet fresh.
Its ease and versatility make it a go-to when you want something quick but still full of holiday spirit.
Turkey Pot Pie
Turkey pot pie transforms leftover turkey into a comforting, hearty meal perfect for chilly days.
Filled with tender turkey pieces, mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce under a flaky crust, this classic dish satisfies cravings for warmth and homestyle goodness.
It’s a great way to stretch leftovers while delivering familiar, rich flavors everyone loves.
Ingredients:
- Cooked leftover turkey, chopped
- Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Cream of chicken or mushroom soup
- Pie crust or puff pastry
- Onion and garlic (optional)
- Salt, pepper, and herbs (thyme or rosemary)
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic until softened. Stir in mixed vegetables and turkey, then add cream soup and herbs to create a thick filling. Pour mixture into a pie dish lined with crust, cover with top crust, seal edges, and cut vents. Bake at moderate temperature until crust is golden and filling bubbly.
This pot pie is a cozy, satisfying way to reinvent turkey leftovers.
It turns simple ingredients into a meal that feels homemade and special, perfect for holiday lunches or anytime you want a comforting classic.
Turkey Salad Sandwich
Turkey salad sandwich offers a refreshing and creamy take on leftover turkey that’s both easy and elegant.
Combining diced turkey with mayonnaise, celery, herbs, and a hint of tangy mustard, it creates a flavorful filling that’s perfect on bread, rolls, or even crackers.
This recipe is ideal for a light yet hearty lunch with classic, well-loved flavors.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, diced
- Mayonnaise
- Chopped celery
- Dijon mustard
- Chopped fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
- Salt and pepper
- Bread or sandwich rolls
Instructions:
Mix turkey, mayonnaise, celery, mustard, and herbs in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Spread generously on bread or rolls and serve with your favorite sides.
This turkey salad sandwich transforms leftovers into a delightful, refreshing meal that’s easy to make and versatile.
It’s a simple yet flavorful option for using up turkey while enjoying a light, satisfying lunch.
Turkey and Stuffing Muffins
Turkey and stuffing muffins are a clever, bite-sized way to enjoy leftover turkey and classic holiday stuffing together.
These savory muffins are easy to make and perfect for a casual lunch or party snack.
With turkey, stuffing, cheese, and a touch of herbs baked into portable muffins, they bring all the cozy holiday flavors in a fun, convenient form.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, chopped
- Prepared stuffing
- Eggs
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Chopped parsley or thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Preheat oven and grease a muffin tin. In a bowl, mix chopped turkey, stuffing, eggs, cheese, and herbs until combined. Season with salt and pepper. Spoon mixture into muffin cups and bake until set and golden on top.
These muffins are a delightful way to repurpose your turkey and stuffing, creating a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for lunch or as appetizers.
They’re portable, tasty, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Turkey Quesadilla
Turkey quesadilla is a quick and flavorful lunch idea that uses leftover turkey to create a cheesy, crispy Mexican-inspired dish.
Packed with turkey, melted cheese, and optional veggies like bell peppers or onions, this quesadilla is easy to customize and cooks in minutes.
It’s perfect when you want something satisfying, warm, and slightly indulgent.
Ingredients:
- Flour tortillas
- Leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Optional: sautéed bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños
- Salsa and sour cream for serving
Instructions:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place one tortilla in the skillet, sprinkle cheese over half, then layer turkey and veggies. Fold the tortilla over and cook until golden and cheese melts, flipping carefully. Slice into wedges and serve with salsa and sour cream.
This turkey quesadilla is a perfect way to enjoy leftovers with a fun twist.
It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and loved by all ages—making it a go-to lunch after the holidays.
Turkey Fried Rice
Turkey fried rice is a delicious, easy way to transform leftover turkey and rice into a flavorful stir-fry.
This dish combines diced turkey with vegetables, eggs, and soy sauce to create a comforting, savory meal inspired by takeout classics.
It’s a perfect way to use up extra turkey while enjoying a quick, satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
- Cooked leftover turkey, diced
- Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- Eggs
- Soy sauce
- Green onions
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
Heat oil in a large pan or wok. Scramble eggs and set aside. Sauté vegetables until tender, then add turkey and rice. Stir-fry together, adding soy sauce to taste. Return eggs to the pan, mix well, and finish with chopped green onions.
Turkey fried rice turns leftovers into a hearty, tasty dish with minimal effort.
It’s a versatile recipe that helps reduce waste while delivering big flavor—ideal for a quick holiday lunch or anytime you want comfort food without fuss.
Turkey and Avocado Salad
Turkey and avocado salad is a fresh, nutritious way to enjoy your leftover turkey with a light and creamy twist.
The combination of tender turkey, ripe avocado, crisp greens, and a zesty lemon dressing makes this salad both satisfying and refreshing.
It’s perfect for a holiday lunch that feels wholesome without being heavy.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- Mixed salad greens
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber slices
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine turkey, salad greens, avocado, tomatoes, and cucumber. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then toss gently. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the freshest flavor.
This salad offers a healthy, colorful option to balance out richer holiday leftovers.
It’s quick to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Turkey and Sweet Potato Hash
Turkey and sweet potato hash is a comforting, hearty dish that reinvents leftover turkey into a flavorful skillet meal.
Roasted or pan-fried sweet potatoes combine with turkey, onions, and peppers to create a savory hash that’s perfect for a satisfying lunch.
It’s easy to prepare and packs a delicious balance of sweet and savory notes.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, chopped
- Cooked sweet potatoes, diced
- Onion, diced
- Bell pepper, diced
- Olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft. Add sweet potatoes and turkey, cooking until heated through and slightly crispy. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Serve warm.
This hash is a versatile and filling way to use turkey leftovers, ideal for a casual holiday lunch or anytime you crave something comforting with a bit of a kick.
Turkey and Spinach Pasta
Turkey and spinach pasta is a quick, creamy, and satisfying dish that repurposes leftover turkey into a flavorful pasta lunch.
Tossed in a light garlic cream sauce with fresh spinach and Parmesan, it’s a balanced meal that comes together in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for a cozy holiday lunch when you want something delicious and easy.
Ingredients:
- Cooked leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- Pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
- Fresh spinach
- Garlic, minced
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Cook pasta according to package instructions. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in turkey and cream, heating gently. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This turkey pasta dish offers a creamy, comforting lunch that makes leftover turkey feel fresh and indulgent.
It’s easy to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies and is sure to please the whole family.
Turkey and Black Bean Tacos
Turkey and black bean tacos are a flavorful, protein-packed way to use leftover turkey with a fun Mexican twist.
Combining shredded turkey with seasoned black beans, fresh salsa, and your favorite toppings, these tacos are quick to assemble and perfect for a casual holiday lunch that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, shredded
- Canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- Taco seasoning
- Corn or flour tortillas
- Salsa
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream and shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
In a skillet, heat turkey and black beans with taco seasoning until warmed through. Warm tortillas and fill each with the turkey and bean mixture. Top with salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and cheese as desired. Serve immediately.
These tacos offer a fresh, vibrant way to reinvent turkey leftovers with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
They’re easy to customize and make for a festive lunch that feels far from ordinary.
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Turkey and vegetable stir-fry is a quick, healthy dish that transforms leftover turkey into a colorful, nutritious meal.
Stir-frying turkey with a mix of fresh vegetables and a savory sauce delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
It’s ideal for a fast holiday lunch packed with vitamins and protein.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced or chopped
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots)
- Soy sauce
- Garlic and ginger, minced
- Sesame oil or vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet. Sauté garlic and ginger briefly, then add vegetables and stir-fry until crisp-tender. Add turkey and soy sauce, tossing to heat through. Garnish with green onions and serve over rice or noodles.
This stir-fry is a vibrant, easy way to enjoy turkey leftovers with a fresh Asian-inspired flair.
It’s fast, healthy, and full of flavor—perfect for keeping holiday lunches light yet satisfying.
Turkey and Cheese Panini
Turkey and cheese panini is a warm, melty sandwich that reinvents leftover turkey into a cozy and comforting lunch option.
With layers of turkey, melted cheese, and optional mustard or pesto, pressed between crusty bread, this panini delivers satisfying textures and rich flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced
- Bread (ciabatta, sourdough, or your choice)
- Cheese (Swiss, cheddar, or provolone)
- Mustard or pesto (optional)
- Butter for grilling
Instructions:
Preheat a panini press or skillet. Spread mustard or pesto on bread slices if using. Layer turkey and cheese between two bread slices. Butter the outsides and grill until golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes per side in a skillet or until crisp in a panini press.
This panini is a deliciously simple way to enjoy turkey leftovers in a warm, satisfying meal.
It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a holiday lunch that feels indulgent yet easy.
Turkey Chili
Turkey chili is a hearty, flavorful way to turn your leftover turkey into a warming lunch perfect for chilly holiday afternoons.
Combining tender turkey with beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, this chili delivers comforting, robust flavors that satisfy without feeling heavy.
It’s easy to make in one pot and great for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- Canned kidney beans or black beans, rinsed and drained
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Onion and garlic, chopped
- Chili powder, cumin, paprika
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped green onions
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add turkey, beans, tomatoes, and spices. Simmer for 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve with your favorite toppings.
This turkey chili is a fantastic way to enjoy leftovers with bold, satisfying flavors that bring warmth and comfort.
It’s versatile, easy, and perfect for a festive lunch or casual meal.
Turkey and Pesto Flatbread
Turkey and pesto flatbread is a quick, vibrant way to turn leftover turkey into a fresh, flavorful lunch.
Using store-bought flatbread or pizza crust, this dish layers pesto, turkey, cheese, and vegetables for a delicious open-faced sandwich that’s both easy and impressive.
Ingredients:
- Flatbread or naan
- Leftover turkey, sliced or shredded
- Basil pesto
- Mozzarella or goat cheese
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh arugula or spinach
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread pesto evenly over the flatbread. Top with turkey, cheese, and cherry tomatoes. Bake until cheese melts and crust is crisp, about 10 minutes. Remove from oven, top with fresh arugula, drizzle with olive oil, and serve.
This flatbread combines fresh, savory, and creamy flavors, making it a delightful and quick way to enjoy turkey leftovers.
It’s colorful, tasty, and perfect for a casual holiday lunch.
Turkey and Sweet Potato Soup
Turkey and sweet potato soup is a comforting, nutritious option for using up leftover turkey.
This creamy, flavorful soup combines tender turkey, sweet potatoes, and warming spices for a satisfying lunch that’s both hearty and light.
It’s easy to prepare and perfect for chilly holiday days when you want something soothing and wholesome.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, chopped
- Sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Coconut milk or cream (optional for creaminess)
- Ground cumin and cinnamon
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
In a pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add sweet potatoes, broth, and spices. Simmer until potatoes are tender. Use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup for desired texture. Stir in turkey and coconut milk or cream, heat through, and season to taste. Garnish with herbs before serving.
This soup is a comforting and creative way to repurpose turkey leftovers into a delicious, nourishing meal that feels cozy and festive.
Turkey and Apple Sandwich
Turkey and apple sandwich offers a crisp, refreshing contrast to leftover turkey’s savory richness.
The sweetness and crunch of fresh apple slices combined with creamy cheese and tangy mustard or mayo create a perfectly balanced lunch sandwich that’s both satisfying and light.
It’s simple to make and ideal for quick holiday lunches or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced
- Fresh apple, thinly sliced
- Bread (whole grain, sourdough, or your favorite)
- Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or provolone)
- Mayonnaise or Dijon mustard
- Lettuce or spinach leaves
Instructions:
Spread mayonnaise or mustard on bread slices. Layer turkey, apple slices, cheese, and greens. Top with the other slice of bread and serve immediately, or grill lightly for a warm variation.
This sandwich refreshes leftover turkey with bright, crisp apple flavor and creamy textures, making it a crowd-pleasing, balanced meal that’s easy and fast to prepare.
Turkey and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Turkey and broccoli stir-fry is a nutritious and colorful way to use leftover turkey in a quick, healthy lunch.
Combining lean turkey meat with vibrant broccoli and a savory soy-based sauce, this stir-fry is packed with flavor and texture.
It’s perfect for a light yet filling holiday meal that comes together in minutes.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced or chopped
- Broccoli florets
- Garlic and ginger, minced
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil or vegetable oil
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
Heat oil in a skillet or wok, sauté garlic and ginger briefly. Add broccoli and stir-fry until bright green and tender-crisp. Add turkey and soy sauce, cooking until heated through. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve over rice or noodles.
This stir-fry is a wholesome, flavorful dish that transforms turkey leftovers into a fresh and satisfying lunch, perfect for keeping holiday meals balanced and vibrant.
Turkey and Avocado Toast
Turkey and avocado toast is a modern, nutritious way to enjoy leftover turkey for lunch.
Creamy mashed avocado spread on toasted bread is topped with tender turkey slices and a sprinkle of seasoning, creating a simple yet flavorful meal.
It’s quick to prepare, light, and packed with healthy fats and protein.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced or shredded
- Ripe avocado
- Whole grain or sourdough bread
- Lemon juice
- Salt, pepper, and chili flakes (optional)
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
Toast bread slices. Mash avocado with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread avocado mash generously on toast, top with turkey slices, and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle chili flakes if desired.
This avocado toast variation adds protein and heartiness to a trendy favorite, making leftover turkey feel fresh and exciting.
It’s ideal for a quick holiday lunch that’s both nourishing and delicious.
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
Turkey and mushroom stroganoff is a creamy, comforting dish that repurposes leftover turkey into a rich and satisfying lunch.
Combining tender turkey and earthy mushrooms in a savory sour cream sauce, this stroganoff pairs perfectly with egg noodles or rice.
It’s a great way to enjoy holiday leftovers with a gourmet touch.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced or chopped
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Sour cream
- Chicken broth
- Dijon mustard
- Butter or oil
- Salt and pepper
- Egg noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
Sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms in butter until softened. Stir in chicken broth and Dijon mustard, simmer briefly. Add turkey and heat through. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice.
This stroganoff is a creamy, flavorful way to transform turkey leftovers into a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet comforting—a perfect holiday lunch choice.
Turkey Caesar Wrap
Turkey Caesar wrap combines classic Caesar salad flavors with tender leftover turkey in an easy, portable form.
Crisp romaine, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing come together wrapped in a tortilla with sliced turkey for a fresh and delicious lunch that’s quick to prepare and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced
- Romaine lettuce, chopped
- Caesar dressing
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Large flour tortillas
- Croutons (optional)
Instructions:
In a bowl, toss romaine with Caesar dressing and Parmesan. Lay a tortilla flat, add turkey slices and salad mixture, then sprinkle with croutons if desired. Roll up tightly, slice in half, and serve.
This wrap offers a familiar, crowd-pleasing flavor profile with the added heartiness of turkey, perfect for a simple yet flavorful holiday lunch or picnic.
Turkey and Sweet Corn Fritters
Turkey and sweet corn fritters are crispy, golden bites that transform leftover turkey into a fun and tasty lunch option.
Combined with sweet corn kernels and lightly seasoned batter, these fritters are fried until perfectly crisp and make a delightful appetizer or light meal when paired with a dipping sauce or salad.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, finely chopped
- Sweet corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- Flour
- Egg
- Milk
- Chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper
- Oil for frying
Instructions:
In a bowl, mix turkey, corn, flour, egg, milk, and green onions until combined. Season with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet and drop spoonfuls of batter into the pan. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
These fritters are crispy, flavorful, and a fun way to enjoy turkey leftovers with a bit of crunch and sweetness—a perfect addition to any holiday lunch spread.
Turkey and Cranberry Grilled Cheese
Turkey and cranberry grilled cheese is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, combining savory turkey with sweet cranberry sauce and melted cheese for a perfect balance of flavors.
This warm, gooey sandwich is quick to prepare and brings a festive touch to leftover turkey lunches.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced
- Bread (sourdough or your favorite)
- Cranberry sauce
- Cheddar or Swiss cheese
- Butter
Instructions:
Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side, layer turkey, cranberry sauce, and cheese. Close the sandwich with the other slice, buttered side out. Grill in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and cheese is melted, flipping once.
This sandwich turns simple ingredients into a comforting and festive meal, perfect for using up turkey leftovers while enjoying classic holiday flavors in a new way.e
Turkey and Veggie Stir-Fry Noodles
Turkey and veggie stir-fry noodles is a fast, colorful, and nutritious lunch option that reinvents leftover turkey with fresh vegetables and tender noodles tossed in a savory sauce.
It’s an easy way to combine protein, veggies, and carbs into one satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced or shredded
- Cooked noodles (rice noodles, egg noodles, or spaghetti)
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
- Garlic and ginger, minced
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil or vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Heat oil in a wok or skillet. Sauté garlic and ginger, then add vegetables and stir-fry until crisp-tender. Add turkey and cooked noodles, pouring in soy sauce. Toss everything together and heat through. Garnish with green onions before serving.
This stir-fry is a quick, tasty way to enjoy turkey leftovers with fresh veggies and noodles, offering a well-rounded and flavorful lunch that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Turkey and Pumpkin Curry
Turkey and pumpkin curry is a warm, fragrant dish that combines leftover turkey with creamy pumpkin and spices for a comforting lunch full of autumnal flavors.
This curry is easy to make and pairs well with rice or flatbread for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, chopped
- Pumpkin puree or diced pumpkin
- Onion and garlic, chopped
- Curry powder or paste
- Coconut milk
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice or naan bread for serving
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add curry powder and cook briefly. Stir in pumpkin and coconut milk, simmering until the pumpkin is tender and sauce thickens. Add turkey, heat through, and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with cilantro and serve with rice or bread.
This curry is a rich and flavorful way to use turkey leftovers, offering cozy spices and creamy texture that make for a satisfying holiday lunch.
Turkey and Spinach Quesadilla
Turkey and spinach quesadilla is a quick and tasty way to transform leftover turkey into a warm, cheesy meal.
Packed with protein and greens, this quesadilla is perfect for a satisfying holiday lunch that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, shredded
- Fresh spinach
- Flour tortillas
- Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Olive oil or butter
- Optional: diced onions or bell peppers
Instructions:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it. Place one tortilla in the pan, sprinkle cheese over half, add turkey and spinach (and optional veggies), then more cheese. Fold the tortilla and cook until golden and cheese is melted, flipping carefully. Slice and serve with salsa or sour cream.
This quesadilla is a delicious, kid-friendly option that revives leftover turkey with fresh greens and melty cheese, perfect for a quick and satisfying holiday lunch.
Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
Turkey and sweet potato shepherd’s pie is a comforting, hearty dish that reinvents leftover turkey with a creamy sweet potato topping.
This casserole-style meal is perfect for cozy holiday lunches, offering a nutritious twist on a classic.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- Cooked sweet potatoes, mashed
- Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- Onion, diced
- Butter or olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sauté onions and vegetables until tender. Mix with turkey and season well. Spread the mixture in a baking dish, top with mashed sweet potatoes, and sprinkle cheese if desired. Bake until the topping is golden and heated through.
This shepherd’s pie is a satisfying and wholesome way to enjoy turkey leftovers, combining rich flavors and nutritious ingredients in a cozy meal.
Turkey and Avocado Wrap
Turkey and avocado wrap is a fresh, creamy, and healthy lunch option that pairs leftover turkey with ripe avocado and crisp vegetables.
This wrap is easy to assemble, portable, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it ideal for a quick holiday lunch.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced or shredded
- Large flour tortillas or wraps
- Ripe avocado, mashed
- Lettuce or spinach
- Sliced tomatoes or cucumbers
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Spread mashed avocado mixed with lemon juice, salt, and pepper onto the tortilla. Layer with turkey, lettuce, and tomatoes or cucumbers. Roll up tightly and slice in half. Serve immediately or wrap for later.
This wrap combines creamy avocado and tender turkey with fresh veggies for a balanced, flavorful lunch that feels light yet filling, perfect for enjoying leftover turkey in a new way.
Turkey and Pesto Panini
Turkey and pesto panini is a deliciously flavorful way to use leftover turkey.
The combination of savory turkey, fresh basil pesto, and melted cheese pressed between crispy bread makes for a warm, satisfying lunch that’s easy to prepare and perfect for the holidays.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, sliced
- Ciabatta or sourdough bread
- Basil pesto
- Mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Butter
Instructions:
Spread pesto on the inside of bread slices. Layer turkey and cheese, then close the sandwich. Butter the outside of the bread and grill in a panini press or skillet until golden and the cheese is melted. Slice and serve warm.
This panini offers a vibrant twist on turkey leftovers, combining fresh herbs and creamy cheese for a comforting and tasty meal.
Turkey and Roasted Vegetable Salad
Turkey and roasted vegetable salad is a hearty and colorful way to transform leftovers into a nutritious lunch.
Roasted seasonal vegetables combined with tender turkey and a tangy vinaigrette create a satisfying dish full of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
- Leftover turkey, chopped
- Roasted vegetables (such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes)
- Mixed salad greens
- Olive oil
- Balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Toss salad greens with roasted vegetables and turkey. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Toss gently and serve immediately.
This salad balances the richness of turkey with fresh greens and roasted veggies, making it a perfect light yet filling holiday lunch.
Turkey and Cranberry Flatbread Pizza
Turkey and cranberry flatbread pizza is a festive and easy way to reinvent leftover turkey.
With a crispy flatbread base topped with turkey, cranberry sauce, cheese, and herbs, this pizza brings sweet and savory flavors together in a quick, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients:
- Flatbread or naan
- Leftover turkey, shredded
- Cranberry sauce
- Shredded mozzarella or goat cheese
- Fresh rosemary or thyme
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread cranberry sauce over flatbread, then top with turkey and cheese. Sprinkle with fresh herbs. Bake until cheese is melted and golden, about 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm.
This flatbread pizza is a fun and flavorful way to enjoy holiday leftovers with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Conclusion
Leftover turkey doesn’t have to mean the same old sandwich day after day. With these 30+ leftover turkey lunch recipes, you can elevate your meals with fresh flavors, creative combinations, and satisfying textures. From flavorful stir-fries and cozy casseroles to crisp wraps and hearty pies, these dishes turn everyday ingredients into memorable lunches. Embrace the opportunity to reduce food waste while enjoying meals that are as convenient as they are delicious. Your leftover turkey lunches will become a highlight of the week, proving that good food and smart cooking go hand in hand.
