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Thanksgiving’s coming up, and I can’t help but think about last year when I was responsible for making the turkey.
It was my first time, and I had so many high hopes, but let’s just say it didn’t quite turn out the way I imagined.
The turkey was dry, and while no one complained (gotta love family), I knew it could’ve been better.
This year, I’m stepping up my game, and I’ve found some amazing turkey recipes that’ll make sure no one leaves the table disappointed.
From whole turkey recipes that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds, to creative ways to use those leftovers after Thanksgiving, I’ve got you covered.
Whether it’s a classic roasted turkey with crispy skin or an herb-buttered version that melts in your mouth, there’s something for every type of turkey lover.
And once the big meal is over, you won’t believe how easy it is to turn those leftovers into something new and delicious—think turkey sandwiches, soups, or even a leftover turkey casserole.
This year, we’re not just talking about a great Thanksgiving dinner; we’re talking about stretching that turkey into meals you’ll actually be excited to eat for days.
Let’s make this Thanksgiving the best one yet!
1. Turkey Bolognese
Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud
This turkey Bolognese is a lighter, healthier take on the classic, but still packs all the rich, savory flavors you love. The ground turkey melts into the tomato sauce, creating a meal that’s satisfying without being too heavy. I always feel like I’ve made something special when I serve this.
2. Pumpkin Turkey Chili
Photo Credit: How Sweet Eats
Turkey and pumpkin might sound like an odd combo, but trust me, they’re a match made in chili heaven. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory turkey, making this chili both hearty and flavorful.
3. Spatchcock Turkey
Photo Credit: Jo Cooks
A spatchcock turkey is a true showstopper—crispy skin and juicy meat in every bite! This method lets you cook your turkey faster and more evenly, giving you more time to relax and enjoy your Thanksgiving.
4. Ground Turkey Pasta Broccoli
Photo Credit: Dizzy Busy And Hungry
This ground turkey pasta with broccoli is the ultimate comfort food that still feels light and fresh. The turkey adds a nice, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the broccoli and cheesy pasta. It’s a win for when you’re craving something cozy but easy to whip up.
5. Ground Turkey Potstickers
Photo Credit: xoxoBella
Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside—these turkey potstickers are pure perfection. They’re such a fun and delicious way to mix things up with leftover turkey. I always get excited when I make these because they’re such a unique twist on traditional potstickers.
6. Turkey Tacos With Brussels Sprouts And Cranberry Sauce
Photo Credit: Floating Kitchen
Turkey tacos bring the fiesta to your dinner table! Packed with tender turkey and fresh toppings like cilantro and lime, they’re a refreshing and fun way to use turkey. I love how these tacos bring a zesty twist to the usual turkey dishes.
7. Turkey Meatballs
Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen
Juicy, flavorful turkey meatballs swimming in a rich tomato sauce—what more could you ask for? These meatballs are perfect for when you want a lighter twist on a classic comfort food. Trust me, they’ll disappear from the table in no time!
8. Crock Pot Turkey Breast
Photo Credit: Spend With Pennies
If you’re all about low-effort but high-reward cooking, this crockpot turkey breast is a game-changer. It stays juicy and tender while cooking slowly, making it an easy go-to for Thanksgiving or even a laid-back weeknight dinner.
9. Ground Turkey Soup
Photo Credit: Wholesome Yum
Warm and comforting, this ground turkey soup is like a hug in a bowl. The tender turkey blends beautifully with vibrant veggies and beans, making it both hearty and healthy.
10. Chinese Turkey Stir-Fry
Photo Credit: Mary’s Whole Life
This colorful turkey stir fry is the ultimate quick fix when you’re craving something fresh and flavorful. The turkey, combined with crisp veggies like snap peas and broccoli, makes it the perfect balance of healthy and tasty.
11. Roasted Turkey Breast With Garlic And Herbs
Photo Credit: Dinner At The Zoo
This roasted turkey breast is for when you want something classic, but with a twist. The herb rub makes it super flavorful, and it’s so juicy and tender. It’s perfect if you’re not cooking for a huge crowd but still want that Thanksgiving feel.
12. Turkey Sausage
Photo Credit: Well Plated
I’m obsessed with this homemade turkey sausage! It’s super simple to make, and the flavor is way better than anything you can buy at the store. Perfect for breakfast, or even as a snack—once you try it, you’ll never go back.
13. Bacon Wrapped Herb Roasted Turkey
Photo Credit: The Slow Roasted Italian
Nothing says indulgence quite like a bacon-wrapped turkey! This herb-roasted turkey is already delicious on its own, but the bacon adds an extra layer of crispy goodness. You’ll be hooked from the first bite.
14. Turkey Thai Curry
Photo Credit: Simply Stacie
If you want to spice things up with your leftover turkey, this Thai curry is where it’s at. The rich, creamy sauce and the tender turkey create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s so different from your typical Thanksgiving leftovers but so worth it.
15. Turkey Roll Ups
Photo Credit: Spend With Pennies
These turkey roll-ups are such a fun and easy meal to put together. With cranberry sauce and gravy all wrapped up, it’s like a mini Thanksgiving in every bite. Perfect for a quick lunch that still feels festive.
16. Guacamole Turkey Burgers
Photo Credit: How Sweet Eats
I love this turkey burger with fresh guacamole on top—it’s a total flavor explosion. The creamy avocado pairs so well with the seasoned turkey patty, making this one of my all-time favorite leftover turkey meals.
17. Easy Turkey Casserole
Photo Credit: Dinner At The Zoo
There’s nothing more comforting than a creamy, cheesy turkey casserole. It’s like a warm hug in a dish! Packed with veggies and noodles, this is a great way to turn leftovers into something the whole family will love.
18. Turkey Bacon Frittata
Photo Credit: Simply Stacie
This frittata is the perfect breakfast after Thanksgiving. The turkey and bacon together make such a hearty, satisfying dish. It’s super easy to whip up and gives you a reason to get excited about breakfast.
19. Turkey Panini
Photo Credit: Jo Cooks
Turkey, gooey mozzarella, and pesto all grilled to perfection—what’s not to love? This panini takes your leftover turkey to a whole new level. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll want to make it again and again.
20. Thai Turkey Burgers
Photo Credit: Dizzy Busy And Hungry
If you’re craving something different for your Thanksgiving leftovers, this Thai turkey burger is a flavor-packed dream. The peanut sauce adds a rich, savory kick, while the crunchy slaw gives it that perfect fresh bite. I’m telling you, this is a must-try if you’re a fan of bold flavors.
21. Smoked Turkey Breast
Photo Credit: xoxoBella
If you love that smoky flavor, this smoked turkey breast is a must-try. It’s tender, juicy, and has that deep, smoky taste that just screams fall. It’s perfect if you want to switch things up from the usual roast turkey.
22. Roasted Turkey Legs
Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen
If you’ve never tried roasting turkey legs, now’s the time. I love how tender and juicy these legs get, and the homemade gravy just takes it over the top. It’s such a fun alternative to the usual whole turkey, especially when you want that juicy dark meat all to yourself.
23. Chili Mac And Cheese With Turkey
Photo Credit: Well Plated
This chili mac and cheese with ground turkey is the ultimate comfort food. It’s cheesy, hearty, and has just enough spice to warm you up on a cold day. I like making this when I’m craving something nostalgic and cozy after Thanksgiving.
24. Deep Fried Turkey
Photo Credit: Dinner At The Zoo
If you haven’t tried deep-frying your turkey yet, trust me—you’re missing out! It makes the turkey skin extra crispy while keeping the meat juicy and tender. It’s a little more hands-on, but once you’ve had a bite, you’ll never go back to roasting.
25. Ground Turkey Shepherd’s Pie
Photo Credit: Mary’s Whole Life
This shepherd’s pie with ground turkey is a lighter twist on the classic dish, but it’s just as satisfying. The mashed potato topping is cheesy and golden, and underneath, you’ve got all those savory turkey and veggie layers.
26. Hearty Turkey Stew
Photo Credit: Spend With Pennies
When the weather starts to cool down, nothing beats a warm, hearty stew. This turkey stew is loaded with vegetables and chunks of tender turkey. It’s comforting and filling, and honestly, it just makes me feel all cozy inside.
27. Turkey Hummus And Veggie Wraps
Photo Credit: Jo Cooks
Sometimes, you need a light, refreshing option, and these turkey wraps are just the thing. The turkey pairs perfectly with creamy hummus and fresh veggies.
28. Ground Turkey And Sweet Potato Skillet
Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen
This skillet recipe is one of my favorites because it’s quick, easy, and so flavorful. The mix of ground turkey, sweet potatoes, and spices is like fall in a pan. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner after Thanksgiving when you’re craving something cozy but not too heavy.
29. Turkey Brine
Photo Credit: Well Plated
Want to make sure your turkey is extra juicy and flavorful? Brining is the way to go. This turkey brine recipe adds so much moisture and flavor to the meat, making sure every bite is tender and delicious. Once you try it, you’ll never skip the brine again.
30. Keto Baked Asian Turkey Meatballs
Photo Credit: Wholesome Yum
You’re going to love these baked Asian turkey meatballs! They’re light but packed with flavor thanks to a delicious blend of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. It’s perfect if you want something a bit different for Thanksgiving that’s still comforting.
31. Broccoli Cheddar Turkey Egg Bowl
Photo Credit: The Slow Roasted Italian
For a lighter, yet equally delicious option, this broccoli cheddar turkey egg bowl is a winner. It’s packed with turkey, fresh broccoli, and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese all baked into an eggy, breakfast-style bowl. I love how easy it is to make, and it’s perfect for those post-Thanksgiving mornings when you still want something hearty but not too heavy.
32. Leftover Roasted Turkey Ramen
Photo Credit: How Sweet Eats
Leftover roasted turkey ramen is my favorite way to transform Thanksgiving leftovers. The tender turkey mixed with noodles and a flavorful broth creates a warm, cozy bowl that’s perfect for relaxing after the holiday.
33. Cool Ranch Turkey Taco Casserole
Photo Credit: xoxoBella
Cool ranch turkey taco casserole is a fun twist on the traditional turkey dinner. The crunchy ranch chips, seasoned turkey, melted cheese, and fresh veggies make every bite feel like a mini fiesta. It’s casual, comforting, and full of bold flavors—perfect for when you want to surprise everyone with something different
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