Things to Do with Thanksgiving Leftovers: Creative Ideas to Try in 2024

First, we'll cover the best ways to store your leftovers to maintain their freshness and flavor. After that, we'll dive into some simple recipes that will breathe new life into your Thanksgiving remnants. And for those with leftover cranberry sauce, we've got some surprising ways to use it beyond the usual sandwich spread.

Let's explore how to turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into meals so delicious, you might just forget they were leftovers in the first place!

How to Store Thanksgiving Leftovers

Proper storage techniques for different leftovers:

• Store cooked turkey in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and consume within three to four days.
• Mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Place them in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
• Cranberry sauce can be stored in a glass jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Gravy should be transferred to a sealed container and refrigerated. Consume within two to three days.

Tips for maximizing freshness and flavor:

• To keep your leftover turkey moist, add a splash of chicken or turkey broth before reheating.
• When reheating mashed potatoes, add a bit of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture.
• Revive dry stuffing by drizzling a little broth over it before reheating.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice to liven up leftover cranberry sauce.

Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftovers from Thanksgiving into New Dishes

Try these creative ideas when looking for things to do with Thanksgiving leftovers:

• Transform turkey into a delicious pot pie by combining it with vegetables, a creamy sauce, and a flaky pie crust.
• Make turkey sliders by layering sliced turkey, cranberry sauce, and stuffing between mini slider buns.
• Use leftover mashed potatoes to make crispy potato pancakes or comforting shepherd's pie.
• Turn leftover cranberry sauce into a sweet and tangy glaze for roasted pork or chicken.

Easy Recipes for Thanksgiving Leftovers

After the Thanksgiving feast, you may find yourself with an abundance of delicious leftovers. Don't let them go to waste! With a little creativity, you can transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into mouthwatering dishes that the whole family will love. Here are some easy recipes to make the most out of your Thanksgiving leftovers.

Delicious Turkey Sandwich Ideas

One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to use leftover turkey is to make sandwiches. Layer slices of juicy turkey on your favorite bread and add toppings like cranberry sauce, lettuce, and mayonnaise for a classic turkey sandwich. For a twist, try a turkey club with bacon, avocado, and tomato, or a Thanksgiving-inspired panini with melted cheese and leftover stuffing.

Savory Turkey Tetrazzini

Looking for a pasta dish that will delight everyone at the table? Consider Turkey Tetrazzini. Cook spaghetti or fettuccine as per package instructions. In a separate pan, lightly fry mushrooms and onions, then add diced turkey and a creamy sauce made from a mix of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Toss in the cooked pasta and bake until it's bubbly and golden. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for an elegant and delicious meal.

Savory Soups and Stews Using Leftover Turkey

Turn your leftover turkey into a comforting bowl of soup or stew. Simmer the turkey carcass with vegetables, herbs, and spices to make a flavorful turkey stock as the base. Add in diced turkey, leftover vegetables, and any additional seasonings for a hearty soup. You can also use the shredded turkey in a turkey pot pie or a creamy turkey and vegetable casserole.

Inventive Ways to Incorporate Stuffing and Mashed Potatoes

Don't forget about the stuffing and mashed potatoes! Use the leftover stuffing to stuff mushrooms or bell peppers and bake until golden and crispy. Turn your mashed potatoes into potato pancakes by mixing them with an egg, flour, and seasonings, then frying until crispy. Another option is to make shepherd's pie by layering leftover mashed potatoes, turkey, vegetables, and gravy in a baking dish and baking until bubbly.

With these easy recipes, you can enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers in new and delicious ways. Get creative in the kitchen and savor the flavors of the holiday season even after the big feast is over!

Creative Ideas for Using Cranberry Sauce

If you're wondering what to do with that leftover cranberry sauce from your Thanksgiving feast, we've got you covered. Cranberry sauce is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Here are some creative ideas to make the most of your cranberry sauce leftovers.

Sweet and Tangy Cranberry Sauce Desserts

Cranberry sauce can add a delightful twist to your favorite desserts. Try swirling it into cheesecake batter for a festive and tangy flavor. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt, or even as a filling for thumbprint cookies.

Ways to Jazz Up Your Breakfast with Cranberry Sauce

Start your day off right by incorporating cranberry sauce into your breakfast routine. Spread it on toast or bagels instead of jam or jelly for a burst of flavor. You can also mix it into your pancake or waffle batter for a delicious twist on a classic breakfast.

Unique Salad and Side Dish Recipes Featuring Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce can add a pop of color and flavor to your salads and side dishes. Toss it into a green salad with some goat cheese and candied pecans for a refreshing and festive twist. You can also mix it into your favorite grain salad or use it as a glaze for roasted vegetables.

With these creative ideas for Thanksgiving leftovers, you can transform your leftover cranberry sauce into exciting dishes that will impress your family and friends. Don't let those leftovers go to waste – get creative and enjoy the delicious flavors of Thanksgiving even after the feast is over!