Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, an abundance of delicious food. But what happens when the festivities are over and you’re left with a fridge full of leftovers? I’ve got you covered with some creative meal prep ideas that will transform your Thanksgiving extras into exciting new dishes.
These 10 meal prep ideas will help you make the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers, reducing food waste and saving you time in the kitchen. From hearty soups to flavorful casseroles, I’ll show you how to reinvent those holiday staples into tasty meals that will keep you satisfied for days to come. Get ready to say goodbye to repetitive leftover dinners and hello to a week of delicious, stress-free meals.
1) Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas
I love transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into delicious new meals. Turkey Cranberry Quesadillas are a perfect way to use up extra turkey and cranberry sauce.
To make these quesadillas, I start with two tortillas. I layer cheese, shredded turkey, and a dollop of cranberry sauce on one tortilla. Then I top it with the second tortilla.
I heat a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of oil or butter. I carefully place the quesadilla in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes until golden brown. Then I flip it and cook the other side until crispy.
For added flavor, I sometimes mix in some herbs like sage or thyme with the turkey. Black beans can also be a great addition for extra protein and texture.
These quesadillas are a satisfying blend of savory turkey, gooey cheese, and tart cranberry sauce. The crispy tortilla adds a nice crunch. They’re quick to make and perfect for a post-Thanksgiving lunch or dinner.
2) Stuffing Waffles
I’ve discovered a clever way to repurpose leftover stuffing: stuffing waffles. This inventive dish transforms traditional stuffing into crispy, golden waffles perfect for breakfast or brunch.
To make stuffing waffles, I mix leftover stuffing with eggs and a bit of chicken broth until well-combined. The mixture should be moist but not soggy.
I preheat and grease my waffle iron, then spread the stuffing mixture evenly across the plates. Cooking time is about 4-5 minutes, or until the exterior is crispy and golden brown.
For toppings, I like to add a fried or poached egg on top. The runny yolk creates a delicious sauce that complements the savory waffle. A sprinkle of salt and pepper finishes it off nicely.
These waffles are a great base for other Thanksgiving leftovers too. I sometimes add warmed turkey and a drizzle of gravy for a complete meal. Cranberry sauce can add a nice sweet-tart contrast as well.
3) Mashed Potato Pancakes
I love transforming leftover mashed potatoes into crispy, golden pancakes. It’s a delicious way to reinvent Thanksgiving extras. To make them, I mix the cold mashed potatoes with an egg, some flour, and cheese.
I often add chopped green onions or chives for extra flavor. Sometimes I’ll toss in crumbled bacon or shredded cheddar cheese too. The key is getting the right consistency – not too wet, not too dry.
I heat oil in a skillet and drop spoonfuls of the mixture, flattening them slightly. They cook for a few minutes on each side until crisp and browned. The outside gets wonderfully crunchy while the inside stays soft and creamy.
These pancakes are versatile. I serve them as a side dish or even as a main course topped with a fried egg. They’re great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Leftover cranberry sauce makes an excellent accompaniment.
I find this recipe is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to use up those extra mashed potatoes from the holiday feast.
4) Cranberry Sauce Smoothie
I’ve discovered a delicious way to use leftover cranberry sauce – turning it into a refreshing smoothie. This quick and easy recipe transforms Thanksgiving leftovers into a nutritious breakfast or snack.
To make the smoothie, I blend 1/2 cup of leftover cranberry sauce with 1 cup of Greek yogurt and 1 banana. For added sweetness, I sometimes include a tablespoon of honey.
I like to customize the smoothie by adding different fruits. Frozen berries work well, giving the drink a thicker consistency. A handful of spinach boosts the nutritional value without altering the taste significantly.
For extra protein, I occasionally add a scoop of vanilla protein powder. This makes the smoothie more filling and perfect for a post-workout drink.
The cranberry sauce smoothie is not only tasty but also helps reduce food waste. It’s a creative way to enjoy holiday flavors long after the festivities have ended.
5) Sweet Potato Biscuits
I love turning leftover sweet potatoes into delicious biscuits. It’s a great way to use up Thanksgiving extras and create a tasty breakfast or snack.
To make these biscuits, I start by mashing leftover sweet potatoes until smooth. I then mix them with flour, baking powder, salt, and butter to form a soft dough.
I roll out the dough and cut it into circles using a biscuit cutter. Then I place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
After baking at 450°F for about 12-15 minutes, the biscuits come out golden brown and fluffy. They have a subtle sweetness from the potatoes that pairs well with both sweet and savory toppings.
I like to serve these biscuits warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. They’re also great for making mini sandwiches with leftover turkey and cranberry sauce.
These sweet potato biscuits freeze well too. I often make a big batch and store some for later, ensuring I can enjoy a taste of Thanksgiving even weeks after the holiday.
6) Thanksgiving Leftover Pizza
Thanksgiving leftover pizza is a creative way to repurpose holiday meal remnants. I start by preheating the oven to 450°F and using a ready-made pizza crust as the base.
I spread a thin layer of leftover gravy on the crust, leaving a small border for the edges. This acts as a flavorful sauce substitute.
Next, I scatter diced turkey evenly across the pizza. To prevent the meat from drying out, I cover it with a layer of shredded cheese.
I then add small dollops of mashed potatoes and stuffing around the pizza. These add texture and depth to each bite.
For a touch of sweetness, I drizzle cranberry sauce in a zigzag pattern over the top.
I bake the pizza for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. After removing it from the oven, I immediately top it with fresh greens for a crisp contrast.
This pizza transforms Thanksgiving leftovers into an exciting new meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines all the holiday flavors in one delicious slice.
7) Turkey Noodle Soup
I love transforming leftover turkey into a comforting noodle soup. It’s a perfect way to use up extra meat and create a satisfying meal.
I start by sautéing diced onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot until they’re softened. Then I add minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its flavor.
Next, I pour in turkey broth and bring it to a gentle boil. I toss in egg noodles and let them cook until tender, usually about 8-10 minutes.
In the last few minutes of cooking, I add the shredded leftover turkey to warm it through. For extra flavor, I like to include some fresh herbs like thyme and parsley.
To finish, I season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Sometimes I add a splash of evaporated milk for a touch of creaminess.
This turkey noodle soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It’s a great option for using Thanksgiving leftovers and provides a comforting meal on chilly autumn days.
8) Stuffing-Stuffed Peppers
I love repurposing Thanksgiving leftovers into new, exciting dishes. Stuffing-stuffed peppers are a delicious way to breathe new life into leftover stuffing.
I start by cutting bell peppers in half lengthwise and removing the seeds. Then I roast them in a 375°F oven for about 15 minutes to soften them up.
While the peppers are roasting, I mix the leftover stuffing with some diced turkey and a bit of gravy to moisten it. I also like to add some sautéed onions and garlic for extra flavor.
Once the peppers are tender, I stuff them generously with the stuffing mixture. I top each pepper with a sprinkle of cheese and return them to the oven for another 10-15 minutes.
The result is a satisfying meal that transforms traditional Thanksgiving flavors. The peppers add a fresh crunch and slight sweetness that complements the savory stuffing perfectly.
This dish is not only tasty but also helps reduce food waste. It’s a win-win situation that I always look forward to after the holiday.
9) Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats
I love transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into delicious breakfast options. Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats is a perfect way to use up extra pumpkin puree and create a nutritious meal.
To make this, I combine rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, pumpkin puree, chia seeds, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice in a jar. I mix everything well and refrigerate it overnight.
In the morning, I have a ready-to-eat breakfast that tastes like pumpkin pie. I can enjoy it cold or warm it up for a minute in the microwave.
For added texture and flavor, I top the oats with chopped nuts, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of granola. This breakfast keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it ideal for meal prep.
I find this recipe incredibly versatile. I can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup, or swap almond milk for any other plant-based or dairy milk I have on hand.
10) Cranberry Turkey Salad
I find cranberry turkey salad to be an excellent way to use up Thanksgiving leftovers. It’s quick, easy, and delicious. To make it, I chop up leftover turkey meat and mix it with dried cranberries for a sweet-tart flavor.
I add some crunch by including diced celery and chopped walnuts or pecans. For creaminess, mayonnaise is my go-to, but I sometimes use a mix of mayo and sour cream for extra tang.
I like to season the salad with salt, pepper, and a touch of fresh parsley. For a flavor boost, I occasionally add a spoonful of Dijon mustard. The key is to taste and adjust the seasonings to my liking.
This versatile salad can be served in various ways. I enjoy it on a sandwich, over mixed greens, or with crackers as a snack. It’s perfect for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days.
For a lighter version, I sometimes make a cranberry vinaigrette instead of using mayonnaise. This dressing combines cranberry sauce, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and Dijon mustard for a tangy, fruity flavor.
Storing Thanksgiving Leftovers Safely
Proper storage of Thanksgiving leftovers is crucial for food safety and extending their shelf life. I’ll cover the best containers to use and key temperature guidelines to follow.
Optimal Storage Containers
I recommend using airtight, shallow containers for storing Thanksgiving leftovers. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work well. Shallow containers allow food to cool quickly, reducing bacterial growth risk.
For soups and gravies, I prefer using mason jars. They seal tightly and are easy to stack in the fridge. For casseroles, I use rectangular glass containers with snap-on lids.
I always label containers with the contents and date. This helps me track how long items have been stored.
Disposable zip-top bags are great for storing smaller portions. I squeeze out excess air before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Temperature Guidelines
I ensure my refrigerator is set to 40°F (4°C) or below. This temperature slows bacterial growth and keeps food safe.
I refrigerate all leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. For hot foods, I divide large portions into smaller containers to cool faster.
Most leftovers stay safe in the fridge for 3-4 days. I freeze items I won’t eat within that timeframe.
When freezing, I set my freezer to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. Properly frozen leftovers can last 2-6 months.
I always reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria that may have grown during storage.
Creative Ways to Reuse Leftovers
Transforming Thanksgiving leftovers into exciting new meals can save time and reduce waste. I’ve found some inventive approaches to reimagine turkey and mashed potatoes that will keep your taste buds interested for days after the holiday.
Transforming Turkey into New Dishes
I love turning leftover turkey into hearty chili. I combine shredded turkey with beans, diced tomatoes, and warm spices for a comforting meal. Turkey enchiladas are another favorite – I roll shredded turkey in tortillas, top with verde sauce, and bake until bubbly. For a quick lunch, I make turkey salad by mixing chopped turkey with mayo, celery, and cranberries.
Turkey soup is perfect for chilly days. I simmer the turkey carcass to make rich broth, then add vegetables and noodles. Turkey pot pie utilizes both meat and vegetables – I use leftover gravy to create a savory filling, then top with store-bought pie crust for an easy dinner.
Innovative Mashed Potato Recipes
Mashed potato cakes are a delicious breakfast option. I mix in some cheese and chives, form into patties, and pan-fry until golden. For a twist on shepherd’s pie, I spread mashed potatoes over leftover turkey and vegetables, then bake until crispy on top.
Potato croquettes make a great appetizer or side dish. I shape cold mashed potatoes into balls, coat in breadcrumbs, and fry until crispy outside and creamy inside. Loaded mashed potato soup is comforting on cold days – I thin out leftover potatoes with broth, add bacon and cheese, then garnish with green onions.