Straight from the pantry

What Can I Make with Leftover Turkey?

Got extra roasted turkey in the fridge? These ideas turn it into soups, sandwiches, casseroles, and more without any waste.

Cooking with leftover turkey

Leftover turkey is already cooked, so the goal is to warm it gently and add moisture. Broth, gravy, cream sauce, or a little butter all help. It shines in soup, pot pie, pasta bakes, hash, fried rice, and big stacked sandwiches.

Unlike ground turkey or fresh turkey breast, this meat is ready to go. Most recipes here come together fast, and you add the turkey near the end so it doesn't dry out. It is a nice way to turn a holiday meal into a few easy dinners.

Questions folks ask

How long does leftover turkey last?

The USDA says cooked turkey keeps about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Freeze it if you won't use it by then.

Can I freeze leftover turkey?

Yes. Store it in airtight bags or containers, with a little broth to protect it from drying.

What can I make with leftover turkey?

Try soup, sandwiches, pot pie, casseroles, tacos, or fried rice. Turkey works anywhere you'd use cooked chicken.

Kitchen tips

  • Shred or chop the meat and add it at the end of cooking.
  • Keep leftovers in the fridge and use within 3 to 4 days.
  • Reheat to 165°F before serving.
  • Moisten dry meat with broth or gravy.
  • Freeze extra turkey in small portions for later soups and casseroles.