Thanksgiving Leftovers You’ll Actually Want to Eat

Thanksgiving dinner might be over, but the leftovers are just getting started. Instead of reheating the same plate, you can turn that extra turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce into something fresh and exciting. A little creativity can make the next few meals just as enjoyable as the holiday feast.

These leftover-friendly ideas are perfect for anyone who wants quick, flavorful meals without starting from scratch. From breakfast wraps to comforting casseroles, you’ll find ways to use up every bit without it feeling repetitive. It’s all about reimagining the ingredients you already have.

Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the family again, these recipes bring a bit of fun back to the fridge clean-out. You’ll save time, cut down on waste, and still enjoy hearty dishes that keep the Thanksgiving spirit going all week.

Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

This quick one-pan meal brings all the familiar flavors of an egg roll but without the wrapper. Ground chicken is cooked with shredded cabbage, carrots, and savory seasonings for a hearty, low-fuss dish. It’s a simple way to enjoy a takeout favorite at home with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Egg Roll in a Bowl

Chicken Corn Chowder

A creamy, cozy bowl of comfort made with tender chicken, sweet corn, and diced potatoes. This chowder strikes the perfect balance between hearty and smooth, making it ideal for chilly evenings. Serve it with a slice of warm bread for a wholesome meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Chowder

Biscuit Topped Beef Pot Pie

Tender beef and vegetables are cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce, then topped with golden, flaky biscuits. It’s a homestyle favorite that feels both hearty and comforting. Every spoonful delivers that familiar, warm satisfaction of a classic family meal.
Get the Recipe: Biscuit Topped Beef Pot Pie

Chicken Taco Wraps

These wraps pack the flavor of tacos in a quick and portable meal. Seasoned chicken, crisp lettuce, and cheese come together in a soft tortilla for a fresh, easy lunch or dinner. Great for busy days when you want something tasty without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Taco Wraps

Turkey Pot Pie

A delicious way to make the most of leftover turkey, featuring tender pieces in a creamy filling surrounded by flaky pastry. Each bite brings together comforting textures and savory goodness. Perfect for cozy nights or post-holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie

Leftover Prime Rib and Gnocchi Skillet

Tender slices of prime rib meet soft gnocchi in a creamy, flavorful skillet meal. It’s a clever and delicious way to transform leftovers into something new. Everything comes together in minutes for a restaurant-worthy dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Prime Rib and Gnocchi Skillet

Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Ground beef, rice, and melted cheese combine to create a filling, family-friendly dish. This casserole is all about comfort and convenience, using simple ingredients that work beautifully together. It’s a weeknight staple that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Homemade Vegetable Broth

A wholesome base made from simmered vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. It’s an easy and natural way to add depth to soups, stews, or grains. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll always want a batch ready in the fridge or freezer.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Vegetable Broth

Thanksgiving Sliders

These sliders turn leftover holiday flavors into handheld goodness. Layers of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce are tucked between soft rolls for a fun, easy meal. Perfect for the day after Thanksgiving or any time you crave those festive flavors.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Sliders

Ham and Potato Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, this casserole pairs tender potatoes with chunks of savory ham. It’s a hearty meal that brings warmth to the table and makes great use of leftovers. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole

Homemade Beef Broth

Rich and full-bodied, this broth starts with roasted bones and aromatic vegetables simmered low and slow. It’s the perfect foundation for soups, gravies, or sauces. The depth of flavor you get from homemade makes it worth every minute.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Beef Broth

Chicken Tortilla Soup

This flavorful soup combines shredded chicken, tomatoes, and spices with a topping of crispy tortilla strips. Each bowl is hearty and full of texture. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish that feels fresh and filling.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tortilla Soup

Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup

A simple slow cooker recipe that turns leftover turkey into a cozy meal. With tender rice, vegetables, and herbs, this soup gently simmers into perfection while you go about your day. It’s warm, nourishing, and wonderfully effortless.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Soup

Prime Rib Quesadilla

Crisp tortillas filled with melted cheese and slices of juicy prime rib make for an indulgent yet easy meal. A quick sear on the pan gives every bite a fulfilling crunch. Great for using up leftovers without feeling repetitive.
Get the Recipe: Prime Rib Quesadilla

How to Make Chicken Broth

With just a few ingredients like chicken bones, vegetables, and herbs, you can create a flavorful broth at home. Slow simmering brings out rich, natural flavors that store-bought versions can’t match. It’s simple, versatile, and a must-have for any kitchen.
Get the Recipe: How to Make Chicken Broth

Turkey Tetrazzini

This creamy pasta dish turns leftover turkey into something special with mushrooms, noodles, and a savory sauce. Baked until golden on top, it’s both hearty and comforting. Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as next-day leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tetrazzini

Leftover Turkey Salad

A light, fresh way to repurpose cooked turkey with a mix of crisp veggies and a creamy dressing. It’s quick to prepare and great for sandwiches or lettuce wraps. A refreshing change of pace after a big holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Salad

Homemade Turkey Broth

Made by simmering turkey bones with vegetables and herbs, this broth is rich in flavor and nutrients. It’s a smart way to stretch leftovers and create a base for soups or sauces. Homemade always adds that special depth to any dish.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Turkey Broth

Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

This creamy casserole blends tender chicken with spinach, artichokes, and melted cheese for a comforting, flavorful dish. It’s hearty enough for dinner yet easy to prepare ahead. A great choice for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Chicken Casserole

Tamale Pot Pies

All the flavor of traditional tamales in a comforting, individual pie form. With savory meat filling and a soft cornbread topping, it’s a fun twist on a classic. These pot pies are perfect for when you want something familiar but a little different.
Get the Recipe: Tamale Pot Pies

Chicken Lasagna with Broccoli

Layers of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and broccoli make this lasagna both hearty and wholesome. It’s a comforting baked dish that’s easy to assemble and full of flavor. A great make-ahead meal that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Lasagna with Broccoli