63 Nifty and Delicious Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas for 2024
You need Thanksgiving leftover ideas to fully indulge this holiday season. We’re here to provide the best ideas and all the information you need. What are the rules for Thanksgiving leftovers? None! Wondering how to eat leftovers from Thanksgiving? Any way you want!
The ideas below will help your imagination run wild and create a day-after-Thanksgiving menu that’s almost as spectacular as Thanksgiving itself. Plus, you can use these Thanksgiving food ideas as ideal Thanksgiving potluck ideas or Thanksgiving appetizers.
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- Thanksgiving Casserole Ideas
- Healthy Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas
- Easy Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas
- Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich Ideas
- Classic Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes
Thanksgiving Casserole Ideas
Before we get started on all the leftover ideas, we wanted to include some casserole dishes that are almost as easy to make as preparing leftovers. According to MasterClass, "the etymology of “casserole” likely dates back to the Greek “kuathion,” meaning “little cup.” By the 18th century, casserole making as we know it was well-established. It's hard to get more traditional than a casserole on Thanksgiving!
1. Green Bean Casserole
This Thanksgiving dish is an absolute classic. It’s made with tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce and crispy fried onions. A perfect balance of flavor and texture, it’s a comforting Thanksgiving side that fits right into your casserole rotation.
2. Butternut Squash and Kale Casserole
Roasted butternut squash and fresh kale create a hearty, nutritious Thanksgiving idea. The earthy flavors blend perfectly with parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs for a satisfying casserole. It’s the perfect way to transform squash into something unique and wholesome, adding a healthy twist to your holiday table.
3. Scalloped Pineapple Casserole
Sweet meets savory in this Thanksgiving casserole. Scalloped pineapple casserole combines tangy pineapple chunks with a buttery, breaded topping. It’s a nostalgic dish with tropical flair, perfect for complementing heavier Thanksgiving staples or adding a surprise element to your post-holiday meals.
4. Pumpkin Ricotta Casserole
This Thanksgiving idea blends pumpkin puree and creamy ricotta cheese, spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, to create a savory yet slightly sweet casserole. It’s a perfect way to use any pumpkin and works as a side or light main dish. We recommend this Thanksgiving casserole if you’re skipping the cheese plate this year.
5. Gratin Casserole
It’s hard to go wrong with a potato gratin casserole. Layers of thinly sliced potatoes, rich cream and melted cheese come together in this luxurious side dish, offering a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with any turkey or roasted vegetables.
6. Mac & Cheese Casserole
Check out this easy Thanksgiving casserole and transform cheese and pasta into a rich mac & cheese casserole. Add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish, and you’ll have a creamy, golden dish that everyone will love, especially after all the holiday indulgence.
7. Potato Bake Casserole
Discovering a rustic, hearty Thanksgiving idea in the form of a potato bake casserole. Use mashed or baked potatoes, combined with butter, cheese and herbs, to create a comforting dish. You can try this Thanksgiving casserole with gravy, as well.
8. Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole
A Thanksgiving idea that brings sweet and savory together, this casserole features mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan crumble. It’s a great way to use any remaining sweet potato dishes while keeping things festive and delicious with a hint of holiday spices.
9. Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Casserole
This Thanksgiving idea combines roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon in a cheesy casserole. The smoky flavor of bacon elevates the Brussels sprouts, making this dish irresistible. It’s a wonderful way to use up all your veggies and add a savory kick to your holiday meals.
10. Cornbread and Sausage Casserole
Cornbread and sausage casserole is a perfect Thanksgiving idea that marries sweet and savory flavors. Cornbread and cooked sausage are baked with eggs and herbs for a hearty, comforting breakfast or brunch casserole that keeps the holiday spirit alive.
11. Cheddar, Broccoli and Rice Casserole
This Thanksgiving idea turns basic ingredients into a comforting meal. Cheddar, broccoli and rice combine in a creamy sauce for a casserole that can stand alone as a dish or be served alongside turkey. It's an easy way to use more mild ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
12. Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole
This Thanksgiving idea features wild rice and shredded turkey baked with creamy sauce and herbs. It’s hearty, wholesome and packed with flavor, making it a perfect post-Thanksgiving meal. The nutty wild rice adds a rich texture, and it’s great for making use of extra turkey.
13. Stuffing Casserole with Cranberries
Transform your stuffing into a Thanksgiving idea that adds a tart twist. Mix in cranberries and bake until golden and crisp. The sweet and savory combination offers a new take on a holiday classic, giving stuffing a fresh life after the main event.
Healthy Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas
Looking for lighter options to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers without the extra calories? These healthy Thanksgiving leftover ideas provide nutritious (and flavorful) meals that help you stay on track.
14. Squash Casserole
Check out a healthy Thanksgiving leftover idea! We recommend making a squash casserole using leftover roasted squash. The natural sweetness of squash combines with breadcrumbs and a light cheese topping for a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying without being too heavy after the holiday feast.
15. Sweet Potato and Turkey Hash
This Thanksgiving leftover idea combines turkey with sweet potatoes, creating a nutrient-rich hash perfect for breakfast or brunch. The savory turkey and naturally sweet potatoes are sautéed with onions and herbs, offering a healthy, flavorful way to repurpose your leftovers into a satisfying meal.
16. Pastry-Topped Turkey Casserole
Lighten up your leftovers with this healthy Thanksgiving leftover idea by topping a turkey casserole with a whole wheat pastry crust. Filled with turkey and vegetables, it’s a balanced and nutritious meal and the lighter crust keeps things on the healthier side while still being delicious.
17. Turkey Soup
Turkey soup is a classic healthy Thanksgiving leftover idea. Use the turkey bones to create a flavorful broth, then add leftover turkey meat and vegetables. It’s light, nutritious and perfect for a cozy meal that lets you enjoy your leftovers in a wholesome, comforting way.
18. Curry Turkey Stir-Fry
Add some spice to your Thanksgiving leftovers with a curry turkey stir-fry. This healthy Thanksgiving leftover idea mixes turkey, veggies and curry sauce into a flavorful, low-calorie dish. The combination of spices helps give new life to your leftovers, offering a fresh and exciting meal.
19. Turkey Lettuce Wraps
Looking for a light and refreshing Thanksgiving leftover idea? Try turkey lettuce wraps. Wrap leftover turkey, veggies and a light sauce in crisp lettuce leaves. It’s a healthy, low-carb option that’s easy to prepare and makes the most of your holiday leftovers without feeling too indulgent.
20. Turkey Cauliflower Rice Bowl
This healthy Thanksgiving leftover idea is pretty innovative. Use shredded turkey as the protein in a cauliflower rice bowl. Add veggies, herbs and a light sauce for flavor. It’s a low-carb, high-protein meal that keeps things light yet satisfying after the indulgence of Thanksgiving.
21. Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini
For a healthy twist on a classic, this Thanksgiving leftover idea uses whole wheat pasta and light cream sauce with mushrooms and turkey. It’s hearty and comforting but lower in calories than traditional tetrazzini, making it a great choice if you’re looking to lighten up your meals.
22. Turkey and Quinoa Salad
This Thanksgiving salad combines lean turkey with protein-packed quinoa and fresh veggies for a nutritious, filling dish. Tossed with a light vinaigrette, it’s the perfect healthy meal to enjoy after a rich holiday feast, giving you energy while making use of your leftovers.
23. Roasted Veggie and Turkey Stir-Fry
Take your leftover roasted veggies and turkey and create a healthy stir-fry. This Thanksgiving leftover idea is full of flavor and low in calories, with fresh herbs and spices adding an extra kick. It’s an easy way to repurpose leftovers into a light, satisfying meal.
24. Turkey and Avocado Salad
This fresh and light Thanksgiving leftover idea features turkey and creamy avocado on a bed of mixed greens. Tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, it’s a healthy option that balances protein and healthy fats, making it a delicious and nutritious way to use up your holiday leftovers.
25. Turkey Zoodle Bowl
It’s sometimes good to go low-carb after a heavy Thanksgiving meal. Swap traditional pasta for zucchini noodles in this health-conscious dish. Combine with turkey, fresh herbs and a light sauce for a healthy, veggie-packed dish. The zoodles add a fresh twist, while the turkey keeps it satisfying, making it a great post-holiday meal option.
Easy Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas
When the holiday rush is over, the last thing you want is a complicated meal. These easy Thanksgiving leftover ideas simplify the process with minimal effort.
26. Turkey and Pasta Ranch Salad
Turn your leftovers into a creamy turkey and pasta ranch salad. This easy Thanksgiving leftover idea combines cooked pasta, shredded turkey, fresh veggies and ranch dressing for a cool, tangy dish. It’s perfect as a light lunch or quick dinner when you need a no-fuss option.
27. Turkey Quesadillas with Cranberry Salsa
Want a quick and easy Thanksgiving leftover idea? Try turkey quesadillas paired with cranberry salsa. Simply layer turkey and cheese between tortillas, toast until golden and serve with tangy cranberry salsa. This meal is perfect for when you want a quick snack that’s flavorful and uses holiday leftovers.
28. Turkey Shepherd's Pie
An easy Thanksgiving leftover idea, turkey shepherd’s pie layers mashed potatoes over leftover turkey and vegetables for a hearty one-dish meal. Bake until golden and bubbling for a comforting dinner that requires minimal prep but makes the most of your holiday leftovers.
29. Turkey Veggie Soup
Turn your leftover turkey and vegetables into a light and flavorful soup. This easy Thanksgiving leftover idea requires little more than simmering your ingredients in broth for a warming dish that’s great for using up all your holiday extras without much effort.
30. Turkey and Apple Arugula Salad
For a fresh, easy Thanksgiving leftover idea, toss shredded turkey with crisp apple slices, arugula and a light vinaigrette. This bright, healthy salad balances the richness of holiday meals with a lighter, refreshing option that’s quick to prepare and perfect for lunch or dinner.
31. Turkey Pot Pies
Make individual turkey pot pies using leftover turkey, veggies and gravy. This Thanksgiving leftover idea is simple yet satisfying. Use pre-made pie crusts or puff pastry for a quick assembly, bake until golden and enjoy a warm, cozy meal that’s perfect for the days after Thanksgiving.
32. Turkey Sliders
Use leftover turkey to create easy sliders. This Thanksgiving leftover idea combines turkey, cheese and a touch of cranberry sauce on mini rolls. Toast until warm and melty for a bite-sized snack or meal that’s perfect for using up your leftovers in a fun, delicious way.
33. Berry and Turkey Salad
Add a fruity twist to your leftovers with this easy Thanksgiving leftover idea. Toss turkey with mixed greens, berries and a light balsamic dressing for a fresh, sweet and savory salad. It’s a quick option when you’re looking for something light and full of flavor after the holidays.
34. Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms
Transform leftover stuffing into an easy Thanksgiving leftover idea by using it as a filling for mushrooms. Simply stuff mushroom caps with stuffing, top with cheese and bake until golden. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving as appetizers at your post-holiday gatherings.
35. Turkey Enchiladas
For a simple and flavorful Thanksgiving leftover idea, roll turkey, cheese and enchilada sauce into tortillas and bake. Turkey enchiladas are quick to assemble and offer a delicious way to change up your leftovers with a little spice, making them a great weeknight meal.
36. Turkey Wraps with Cranberry Sauce
For an easy and portable Thanksgiving leftover idea, create turkey wraps using tortillas, turkey, cranberry sauce and veggies. Roll them up and enjoy as a quick lunch or snack that’s light, fresh and full of holiday flavors, without the need for complicated cooking.
37. Turkey and Spinach Frittata
Turn leftover turkey into a savory frittata by mixing it with spinach and eggs. This easy Thanksgiving leftover idea is perfect for breakfast or brunch, offering a high-protein meal that’s quick to make and packed with nutritious greens, making it a smart post-holiday choice.
38. Turkey and Cranberry Grilled Cheese
For a sweet and savory twist, try a turkey and cranberry grilled cheese sandwich. This easy Thanksgiving leftover idea combines turkey, cranberry sauce and melted cheese between buttery slices of bread. It’s a simple yet delicious way to enjoy your leftovers in a classic comfort food form.
Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich Ideas
Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into handheld meals with these creative sandwich ideas. These Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches offer a fun and flavorful way to enjoy all your Thanksgiving favorites.
39. Classic Turkey Club Sandwich
A classic turkey club sandwich is an easy Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that never disappoints. Stack turkey, crispy bacon, lettuce and tomato between toasted bread with mayo for a satisfying, layered sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, offering a balance of flavors and textures.
40. Turkey Reuben Sandwich
This Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea puts a twist on the classic Reuben by using turkey instead of corned beef. Layer turkey with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing on rye bread, then grill it to perfection for a warm, tangy sandwich with a hint of holiday flavor.
41. Turkey Banh Mi
Give your Thanksgiving leftovers an international twist with a turkey banh mi. This Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea combines turkey with pickled veggies, cilantro and a spicy mayo, all packed into a baguette. It’s a fresh, flavorful way to repurpose your leftovers into something exciting and unique.
42. Turkey and Brie Croissant
For a rich, indulgent Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea, try a turkey and brie croissant. The buttery croissant pairs beautifully with savory turkey and creamy brie, and a dollop of cranberry sauce adds a sweet touch. It’s a delicious way to elevate your leftovers into a gourmet treat.
43. Turkey Salad Sandwiches
Make a turkey salad sandwich by layering leftover turkey with tomatoes and lettuce. Spread it on bread or rolls for a simple and flavorful Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that’s quick to prepare and perfect for lunches in the days following Thanksgiving.
44. Turkey and Pesto Panini
Combine turkey, mozzarella and pesto in a panini for a simple yet flavorful Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea. The fresh pesto adds a burst of flavor to the savory turkey, and the melted cheese ties everything together for a warm, satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare.
45. Turkey Caesar Wrap
For a lighter sandwich option, make a turkey Caesar wrap. This Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea wraps turkey, romaine lettuce and Caesar dressing in a soft tortilla for a fresh, crunchy bite that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner after the holiday.
46. Turkey and Coleslaw Sandwich
For a crunchy and tangy Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea, top turkey with coleslaw on your favorite bread. The fresh coleslaw adds a nice contrast to the savory turkey, creating a simple yet delicious sandwich that’s perfect for a quick meal.
47. Turkey Tortilla
This simple Thanksgiving leftover idea is perfect for a light meal. Use a tortilla to wrap up leftover turkey, cheese and veggies for a quick, handheld meal. Add a little cranberry sauce or a drizzle of gravy for extra flavor, and enjoy a tasty, portable twist on traditional leftovers.
48. Turkey and Mashed Potato Grilled Cheese
For a creative Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea, combine turkey and mashed potatoes with cheese in a grilled cheese sandwich. The creamy mashed potatoes add an extra layer of comfort, while the crispy bread and melted cheese make this a perfect indulgent treat.
49. Gravy and Cranberry Sourdough Sandwich
This Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea combines savory turkey and gravy with sweet cranberry sauce; all piled onto slices of toasted sourdough. The contrast of tangy sourdough with rich gravy and tart cranberry makes for a perfectly balanced sandwich that’s quick to make and deliciously satisfying after the holiday feast.
50. Extra Thick Turkey Sandwich
For a hearty Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea, create an extra thick turkey sandwich by layering slices of leftover turkey with stuffing, cranberry sauce and gravy between thick-cut bread. It’s a full Thanksgiving meal packed between two slices, perfect for when you want a quick yet filling post-holiday meal.
Classic Thanksgiving Leftover Recipes
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy leftovers is by sticking to the classics. These traditional Thanksgiving leftover recipes bring out the comforting flavors of the holiday.
51. Reheating Thanksgiving Dinner
One of the easiest classic Thanksgiving leftover ideas is simply reheating your Thanksgiving dinner. To keep things fresh, try adding a splash of broth to turkey and stuffing before warming them up. Reheat in the oven or microwave, and you’ll enjoy a warm, comforting second round of holiday goodness.
52. Leftover Stuffing Waffles
For a fun and classic Thanksgiving leftover idea, turn leftover stuffing into waffles. Simply press the stuffing into a waffle iron until crispy. These savory waffles are perfect for serving with gravy or topping with turkey and cranberry sauce, offering a new take on a holiday favorite.
53. Turkey Cranberry Flatbread
This classic Thanksgiving leftover recipe turns leftovers into a delicious flatbread. Spread cranberry sauce over flatbread, top with turkey and cheese and bake until crispy. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy your leftovers in a fresh format that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
54. Turkey Lasagna
For a hearty, classic Thanksgiving leftover idea, swap traditional ground meat with turkey in a lasagna. Layer turkey, ricotta, marinara sauce and noodles for a rich, filling dish. This twist on a classic Italian recipe gives you a flavorful, satisfying meal while using up holiday leftovers.
55. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
A comforting classic Thanksgiving leftover idea is to make a turkey shepherd’s pie. Layer leftover turkey and vegetables, then top with mashed potatoes and bake until golden and crispy. It’s a filling and flavorful dish that turns your holiday leftovers into a cozy, one-pan meal.
56. Turkey and Pumpkin Soup
A warm, cozy turkey and pumpkin soup is a classic Thanksgiving leftover recipe that’s both comforting and nutritious. Use leftover turkey and canned pumpkin to create a velvety broth with herbs and spices. It’s a delicious way to enjoy your leftovers in a wholesome, seasonal dish.
57. Cranberry and Turkey Tacos
For a twist on a classic, try cranberry and turkey tacos. This Thanksgiving leftover idea combines shredded turkey with cranberry salsa and fresh veggies in soft tortillas. It’s a quick, fresh meal that adds a bit of fun and flavor to your post-Thanksgiving meals.
58. Turkey Fried Rice
This classic Thanksgiving leftover idea mixes turkey with rice, veggies and soy sauce for a quick and satisfying turkey fried rice. It’s a great way to use leftover turkey and transform it into something entirely different, offering an easy and flavorful meal after the holiday.
59. Stuffing Muffins
For a fun and easy twist on leftovers, make stuffing muffins. This classic Thanksgiving leftover idea involves pressing stuffing into muffin tins and baking until crispy. These bite-sized treats are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish, offering a new way to enjoy your favorite holiday flavors.
60. Turkey and Stuffing Quiche
For a classic Thanksgiving leftover idea that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch, make a turkey and stuffing quiche. Use leftover stuffing as the crust, and fill with turkey, eggs and cheese for a savory, filling dish that combines all the best parts of Thanksgiving in one bite.
61. Leftover Hand Pies
Turn your leftovers into handheld treats with leftover hand pies. This classic Thanksgiving leftover idea involves wrapping turkey, stuffing and cranberry sauce in pie dough, and then baking until golden. These portable pies are great for snacking or enjoying a small meal on the go.
62. Turkey Vegetable Soup with Dumplings
A hearty, classic Thanksgiving leftover recipe is turkey vegetable soup with dumplings. Use leftover turkey and veggies to create a warm broth, then drop in fluffy dumplings for a filling, comforting meal. It’s a great way to use up everything from turkey to vegetables and gravy.
63. Open-Faced Hot Turkey Sandwiches
These open-faced hot turkey sandwiches are incredibly simple to make and extra delicious. Layer sliced turkey on bread, pour gravy over the top and serve warm. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy your leftovers in a delicious, satisfying meal that feels like a holiday treat.
Hosting Thanksgiving is no small feat, and enjoying delicious leftovers is a little treat after all your hard work. So, wondering what to have after Thanksgiving dinner? The answer is any of our amazing ideas. For even more great things to try this Thanksgiving, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
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