Thanksgiving Leftovers Ideas - Home & Texture
cooking Thanksgiving Leftovers Ideas

These Thanksgiving Leftovers Ideas Are Anything But Boring

Turn your leftovers into meals that keep the celebration going.

October 29, 2024 at 4:49 AM PST
cooking Thanksgiving Leftovers Ideas

These Thanksgiving Leftovers Ideas Are Anything But Boring

Turn your leftovers into meals that keep the celebration going.

October 29, 2024 at 4:49 AM PST

When Thanksgiving has come and gone, it leaves behind a trail of turkey legs, mashed potatoes, and desserts. With an overstuffed belly, you’re faced with the age-old question: What do you do with all those leftovers? We’ve got a lineup of ideas that’ll make you excited for post-Thanksgiving meals. Here are a few ways you can turn your fridge full of yesterday’s feast into delicious new plates.

thanksgiving leftovers
Photo credit: Skynesher

Turkey, the Star of the Show

Let’s start with the star of the show: the turkey. It may have been the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving table, but it’s ready for a second act.

Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas

Who says cranberries and turkey can’t spice things up south of the border? Lay out a tortilla, sprinkle on some shredded turkey, a handful of cheese, and a scoop of cranberry sauce. Fold it up, toast it in a pan, and you’ve got a quesadilla that dances on your taste buds.

Leftover Turkey Salad

When you’re feeling fancy but lazy, this one’s for you. Shred turkey into bite-sized pieces and toss it with a bit of mayo, a dash of mustard, and some chopped celery for crunch. Serve on lettuce or between slices of whole-grain bread—Voilà—instant class with minimal effort.

loaded baked potato soup
Photo credit: Lauri Patterson

Mashed Potatoes Become Mashed Masterpieces

Those creamy clouds of spuds deserve some love, too. Let’s elevate them beyond their humble beginnings.

Mashed Potato Pancakes

Mix leftover mashed potatoes with an egg, some flour, and a sprinkle of chives. Form into patties and fry until golden brown. You’ve just created the perfect brunch side or a midnight snack that’ll have you wondering why you ever ate them plain.

Loaded Potato Soup

Throw your mashed potatoes into a pot with chicken stock, milk, and a bit of cheese. Stir until creamy. Top with bacon bits and sour cream for a warm hug in a bowl.

stuffing
Photo credit: Bhofack2

Stuffing Gets a Makeover

Stuffing: the often-overlooked hero of Thanksgiving. Let’s give it the attention it deserves.

Stuffing Waffles

Yes, you heard that right. Press your stuffing into a waffle iron until crispy. Top with a drizzle of gravy, and you’ve got a dish that’s breakfast and dinner in one bite.

Stuffing Scotch Eggs

Wrap a boiled egg in stuffing, roll that in breadcrumbs, and fry it up. It’s a British classic with an American twist, and it’s as delicious as it sounds.

sweet potato pancakes
Photo credit: Gwenael le Vot

Sweet Treats from Sweet Potatoes

Those sugary, marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes are about to get a new lease on life.

Sweet Potato Pancakes

Blend sweet potatoes with flour, baking powder, and a pinch of cinnamon. Fry on a griddle and top with syrup or whipped cream for a sweet breakfast upgrade.

Pecan pie ice cream bowl
Photo credit: Rimma Bondarenko

Pecan Pie Reimagined

Let’s be honest: pecan pie is perfect as it is. But if you must innovate:

Pecan Pie Ice Cream

Crumble leftover pie into softened vanilla ice cream. Refreeze, and enjoy a pie à la mode all in one scoop.

Pecan Pie Milkshake

Blend a slice of pie with some milk and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s decadent and maybe just enough to make you forget that you still have three days of leftovers to tackle.




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