Next week, we’ll all be stuffed with Thanksgiving turkey, but here’s some truth: The bird always outlasts the feast, right? What’s a person to do with all the leftover carved turkey? Don’t let it sulk in a Tupperware abyss. It’s time to give it a second life—one full of zest, spice and just a touch of sass.
You can whip up many quick recipes with your leftover turkey rather than forgetting it at the back of your fridge. One of my favorite things to transform my leftover bird into is Turkey Carnitas Tacos. But before we dive into that, here are a few more creative quick meals you can create.
Breakfast Boosts
Turkey Hash
Start your morning like a champ by tossing diced turkey, crispy potatoes, onions and peppers into a skillet. Crown it with a golden fried egg.
Turkey Omelette
Feeling fancy? Fold shredded turkey, a gooey cheese like gruyere or fontina, and savory sautéed mushrooms into fluffy eggs. It’s protein-packed fuel disguised as indulgence.
Savory Turkey Breakfast Bowl
This is my love language of tender turkey, roasted sweet potatoes and greens. Top it off with a drizzle of hot sauce or hollandaise for the kind of breakfast that makes you forget you’re eating leftovers.
Handheld Goodness
Turkey and Cranberry Panini
Transform your turkey into a melty masterpiece layered with cranberry sauce, gooey Brie (or Swiss if you’re feeling classic), and a kiss of mustard. Grill it to golden perfection, and get ready for your taste buds to dance.
Turkey Quesadillas
The ultimate crispy craving cure: shredded turkey, cheese, green onions and salsa tucked between tortillas. Grill until bubbly and golden.
Thanksgiving Wraps
All the flavors of your holiday feast, rolled into a tortilla for an on-the-go gobble. Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. It’s Thanksgiving all over again, but it’s portable!
Quick and Cozy
Turkey Noodle Soup
Saute a little onion, garlic and celery, then throw shredded turkey meat into the pot with turkey broth and simmer until the whole house smells like comfort. Add in egg noodles, a splash of soy sauce, bay leaf and fresh herbs, and you’ve got yourself a bowl of post-Thanksgiving magic.
Turkey Fried Rice
Got leftover rice? (If not, make some! It’s worth it.) Sauté turkey shreds with garlic, ginger, a splash of sesame oil and your favorite veggies. Crack in an egg or two, stir-fry, and finish with soy sauce and scallions. Perfection!
Thanksgiving Shepherd’s Pie
Layer turkey, mashed potatoes, and leftover gravy in a baking dish. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and bake until bubbly. This dish says, “Yes, I used leftovers, but I’m fabulous.”
Okay, now for those delicious tacos…
Look. I know you might be tired of cooking, but trust me on this: You will love these. For this recipe, I use the dark meat of the turkey because it has more flavor and fat.
Turkey Carnitas Tacos
3 cups leftover turkey (dark meat), shredded
2 oranges, juiced
1 lime, juiced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Corn tortillas
Toppings: diced red onion, fresh cilantro, Cotija cheese, avocado slices and your favorite salsa
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shredded turkey and let it crisp up for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Lower the heat and pour in the orange and lime juice. Toss in the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper. Stir until the turkey is coated and the liquid has reduced, leaving it glossy and caramelized.
Warm tortillas in a skillet or over an open flame for a smoky edge.
Pile on the turkey carnitas, then top with diced onion, cilantro, Cotija cheese, avocado, a drizzle of salsa (optional), and enjoy!
