Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes

The table has been cleared, the pies devoured, and the last glass of wine savored. Thanksgiving may be over, but the feast doesn't have to end. If you're staring at a fridge full of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce wondering what to do with it all, you’re in luck. We’ve rounded up the best Thanksgiving leftover recipes that transform those post-holiday staples into brand-new, delicious dishes you’ll be excited to dig into.

Here are some of our favorite creative ways to turn those leftovers into next-day winners.

Turkey & Cranberry Panini

If you’re a fan of the TV show, Friends, then you’re no stranger to the power of the Thanksgiving leftover sandwich (after all, Ross lost his job because of his love for this sandwich). Make our version with crispy sourdough, melty cheese, and the perfect combination of turkey and cranberry sauce. This panini is sweet, savory, and oh-so-satisfying—ideal for a lazy Monday lunch.

Ingredients:

1. Slices of leftover turkey
2. Cranberry sauce
3. Brie or Havarti cheese (or any cheese you love that melts well)
4. Sourdough bread
5. Butter

Instructions:

1. Butter the outside of your sourdough slices.
2. Spread cranberry sauce on one slice of bread, layer with turkey and cheese, then top with the other slice.
3. Grill on a panini press or skillet until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
4. Serve with some leftover salad or roasted veggies for a light, tasty meal.

Thanksgiving Leftovers Shepherd’s Pie

Take your leftovers and bake them into a hearty shepherd’s pie! The mashed potatoes on top turn crispy and golden in the oven, while the layers of turkey and vegetables below soak in all the gravy goodness.

Ingredients:

1. Leftover turkey, shredded
2. Leftover mashed potatoes
3. Leftover gravy
4. Leftover vegetables (green beans, carrots, or roasted Brussels sprouts work well)
5. Stuffing (optional)
6. Fresh thyme or rosemary for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a baking dish, layer shredded turkey, vegetables, and gravy.
3. Top with leftover mashed potatoes (and stuffing if you like).
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary if you want to add a fresh herb twist.

Stuffing Waffles

This is not your average waffle—stuffing waffles take your leftover stuffing and give it new life with a crispy, golden twist. These are perfect for a post-Thanksgiving brunch or as a savory side for fried eggs and gravy.

Ingredients:

1. Leftover stuffing
2. 1-2 eggs
3. Leftover gravy for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your waffle maker.
2. Mix the leftover stuffing with a beaten egg to bind it.
3. Scoop the mixture into your waffle maker and press down until crispy and golden.
4. Serve hot with a drizzle of warm gravy on top.

Cranberry Sauce Smoothie

Give yourself a break from the heavy Thanksgiving foods with this light, refreshing smoothie. Leftover cranberry sauce makes a perfect base for a fruity, tangy drink that’ll perk up your morning.

Ingredients:

1. 1/2 cup leftover cranberry sauce
2. 1 banana
3. 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
4. 1/2 cup orange juice
5. A handful of spinach (optional for a green twist)
6. Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender.
2. Blend until smooth, adding more orange juice if needed.
3. Pour into a glass and enjoy as a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.

Turkey Pot Pie

Turn leftover turkey and veggies into a rich, creamy pot pie. This dish is the ultimate comfort food and a great way to use up all your Thanksgiving favorites in one dish.

Ingredients:

1. Leftover turkey, shredded
2. Leftover vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans, etc.)
3. Leftover gravy
4. 1 sheet of store-bought puff pastry or pie crust
5. 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a large pan, mix turkey, vegetables, and gravy. Heat until the mixture is warm.
3. Transfer the mixture to a pie dish.
4. Cover with puff pastry, trimming any excess, and brush with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the pastry is golden and flaky.

Mashed Potato Pancakes

These crispy mashed potato pancakes are a delightful twist on your leftover mash. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or even as a side, they’re quick, simple, and totally delicious.

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
2. 1 egg
3. 1/4 cup flour (or more, depending on consistency)
4. Salt and pepper to taste
5. Butter or oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, egg, flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Form small patties with your hands.
3. Heat butter or oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Fry the patties on each side until golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve with sour cream or applesauce for dipping.

Thanksgiving might come just once a year, but with these leftover recipes, you can keep the delicious flavors going all weekend long. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy pot pie, crispy stuffing waffles, or a next-level turkey sandwich, these recipes will breathe new life into your holiday meal.

Happy feasting, and don’t forget to savor every last bite!

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