Are you tired of the same old turkey sandwich or leftover soup? Look no further! We’ve got 18 delicious and easy-to-make recipe ideas that will help you use up your leftover turkey in a whole new way. From comforting casseroles to hearty stews, these slow cooker recipes are perfect for using up that extra turkey from the holidays.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to please. And the best part? Most of these recipes require minimal prep work, so you can simply toss everything in the crockpot and let it do the rest of the work. So go ahead, get creative, and transform your leftover turkey into a culinary masterpiece!
Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed wild rice blend
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add diced turkey and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Stir in wild rice blend and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until rice is tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Tetrazzini
This creamy, cheesy casserole is a delicious twist on the classic turkey tetrazzini. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this slow cooker recipe allows you to cook and serve with ease.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
Instructions:
1. Place the turkey in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour over the turkey.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the turkey mixture.
4. Arrange the sliced mushrooms on top of the cheese.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the mushrooms.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
This classic casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey with a savory stuffing and creamy sauce, making it a perfect addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until combined.
4. Add the diced turkey and bread cubes to the skillet and stir until well coated with the mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Turkey Chili
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious and comforting chili dish. This recipe is perfect for using up roasted turkey, vegetables, and canned goods to create a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced onion over medium heat until softened.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the chili powder and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the turkey, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, and chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stew
This hearty stew combines tender turkey with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Return turkey to pot; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crockpot Turkey Noodle Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect remedy for a chilly day. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is a staple for any mealtime.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles work well)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the turkey, onion, garlic, chicken broth, and thyme in the Crockpot.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the noodles.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Turkey and Dumplings
Warm up with a comforting bowl of turkey and dumplings, a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and satisfying to eat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey, onion, and garlic over medium-high heat until the turkey is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the flour, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth to the skillet, whisking continuously.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in the butter until melted.
7. Follow the package instructions to prepare the biscuit or dumpling mix.
8. Serve the turkey and dumplings hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
BBQ Pulled Turkey Sandwiches
BBQ Pulled Turkey Sandwiches: A Twist on a Classic
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these delicious BBQ Pulled Turkey Sandwiches! This recipe combines the tender flavors of turkey breast with the sweet and tangy taste of barbecue sauce, all piled high on a soft bun.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place turkey breast in a large baking dish and brush with the BBQ glaze.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the turkey breast with two forks and stir in any remaining BBQ glaze.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast lightly.
7. Spoon the pulled turkey onto the buns and top with coleslaw or pickles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Turkey and Sweet Potato Curry
This flavorful curry combines tender turkey with roasted sweet potatoes and a blend of aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast sweet potatoes in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add onions and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
6. Add coconut milk and roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet; season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer the curry for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Slow Cooker Turkey Pot Pie Filling
Elevate your comfort food game with this easy-to-make slow cooker turkey pot pie filling recipe, perfect for a cozy dinner or leftover meal. Simply combine tender turkey, creamy vegetables, and savory seasonings in your slow cooker, and let the magic happen!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine turkey, onion, garlic, frozen vegetables, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour in chicken broth until the mixture is just covered.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Shred the turkey with two forks before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Corn Chowder
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Turkey and Corn Chowder combines the flavors of roasted turkey, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add turkey, corn kernels, and diced potato. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Turkey Tortilla Soup
Warm up with this flavorful and comforting soup that combines the spices of Mexico with the richness of turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas, cut into thin strips
– Optional: avocado, shredded cheese, and sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add tortilla strips and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until they’re softened and the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of tender turkey, nutritious lentils, and aromatic spices, making it a delicious and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, carrot, lentils, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Turkey and Wild Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of wild mushrooms with the tenderness of turkey, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the turkey in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add butter and sauté the mushrooms until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth, heavy cream, mustard, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the turkey to the skillet and simmer until coated in the sauce, about 5 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Enchilada Filling
This flavorful filling combines the savory taste of turkey with the spicy kick of black beans, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for enchiladas, tacos, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, cilantro, and jalapeño; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the turkey, black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
4. Pour in the enchilada sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the filling has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect solution for a busy day. With just a few simple ingredients, your slow cooker will work its magic to create a deliciously flavorful dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine turkey, onion, garlic, peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, milk, and thyme.
2. Stir in cooked rice until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Spinach Lasagna
This hearty lasagna combines the flavors of tender turkey, wilted spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey, onion, and garlic until the turkey is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layers of cooked lasagna noodles, turkey mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and White Bean Cassoulet
This hearty casserole combines tender turkey, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 1 large celery stalk, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, combine white beans, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with turkey pieces and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover turkey with these 18 delicious crockpot recipes! From soups to casseroles, sandwiches to curries, there’s something for everyone. Try Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup, Slow Cooker Turkey Tetrazzini, or Turkey and Stuffing Casserole. For a twist on classic chili, go for Leftover Turkey Chili. If you’re in the mood for something international, try Turkey and Sweet Potato Curry or Mexican Turkey Tortilla Soup. With these easy-to-make recipes, you’ll never have to worry about using up your turkey leftovers again.
