89 Nifty and Delicious Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas for 2025

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 Thanksgiving breakfast idea 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. Turkey and Trimmings Garden Salad

Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into a turkey and trimmings garden salad for a lighter option with plenty of health benefits. Use mixed greens or spinach leaves as a base, then add shredded turkey, roasted vegetables and a sprinkle of cranberry sauce. You can top the salad with a light citrus dressing. This Thanksgiving leftover idea makes for a balanced and refreshing lunch.

15. Turkey Broth

Using the leftover turkey bones, make a fresh, healthy turkey broth as a Thanksgiving leftover idea. Simmer for several hours with carrots, onions and celery to create a nutrient-rich base that can be used for gravies, seasoning, soups and stews or enjoyed on its own.

16. Quinoa Turkey Power Bowl

Create a protein-packed quinoa turkey power bowl for your next meal. This recipe combines leftover turkey with quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes and steamed greens into a nutritious Thanksgiving leftover idea. The bowl is packed with flavor and offers a nutritious, fiber-rich option for your family.

17. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey

Stuff fresh bell peppers with turkey, quinoa or brown rice, vegetables and your favorite herbs for a healthy Thanksgiving leftover idea. Bake until tender for a low-calorie dish you can serve alone or use as a side for your next family dinner. This one has a Spanish influence and pairs well with black bean soup or quesadillas. 

18. Ham and Roasted Veggie Grain Bowl

What can I have for Thanksgiving dinner besides turkey? Ham is an option. Try making grain bowls if you’re looking for a holiday food leftover idea that includes this meat. Combine the ham with roasted vegetables like carrots, squash and beets over a bed of brown rice. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a hearty, healthy meal.

19. Turkey and Sweet Potato Salad

Turn leftover slices of turkey and healthy sweet potatoes into a hearty salad perfect for lunch the day after the holiday. Toss the leftovers with mixed greens, avocado and a light homemade vinaigrette using olive oil, citrus juice and mustard for a protein-rich meal that makes a perfect Thanksgiving leftover idea.

20. Roasted Turkey and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

Toss or stir-fry leftover turkey with savory roasted Brussels sprouts and root vegetables in extra virgin olive oil for a light, flavorful meal. Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for Asian influence. The mixture creates a healthy, quick way to use leftovers that you can turn into a dinner in less than 30 minutes.

21. Mashed Cauliflower and Turkey Shepherd's Pie

Use garlic mashed cauliflower in a healthy turkey shepherd's pie and your family won’t miss the mashed potatoes. Layer shredded turkey and mixed vegetables in a dish. Top this layer with mashed cauliflower. Then, bake until golden brown. This makes for a nutritious take on a traditional favorite and a classic Thanksgiving leftover idea that just might become your family’s new favorite.

22. Turkey and Cranberry Salad Wrap

Use whole-grain wraps to create a healthy way to use leftovers that combines turkey and cranberry salad into a delicious wrap. Mix turkey with light Greek yogurt, cranberry dressing and celery, then wrap it up for a balanced, low-calorie meal idea. 

23. Turkey and Kale Skillet

Sauté leftover turkey breast with fresh kale, pungent garlic, salt and pepper and extra virgin olive oil for a nutrient-dense Thanksgiving leftover idea that uses your favorite skillet. This one-pan meal is packed with vitamins and makes a quick, healthy choice that your family will love. You can have dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes. 

24. Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Hollow out zucchini and stuff them with a mixture of turkey, cherry tomatoes and brown rice or quinoa. The mixture creates a healthy turkey-stuffed zucchini boat Thanksgiving leftover idea. This low-carb, high-protein meal is satisfying and full of flavor. 

25. Cranberry and Turkey Wild Rice Salad

Leftover turkey paired with wild rice, fresh cranberries and greens makes a lovely salad. Use these ingredients to create a healthy dish you can enjoy alone or pair with your favorite main course. The meal is high in fiber and antioxidants, which the Cleveland Clinic states protect us from free radicals and help to protect our bodies on a cellular level. This nutritious wild rice salad is light and flavorful, ideal for lunch or a quick dinner.

26. Turkey and Spinach Egg Scramble

For a healthy post-Thanksgiving breakfast or brunch, scramble farm-fresh eggs with wilted, lemon-infused spinach and leftover turkey. You can add a bit of feta cheese for a creamy texture. This protein-rich holiday leftover idea is a great way to start your day with a healthy dose of protein and use up extra turkey.

27.  Turkey and Butternut Squash Salad

Toss roasted butternut squash, cubed sweet potatoes, red onions, shredded turkey and baby spinach with a light vinaigrette to create a light turkey and butternut squash salad. This sweet and savory dish is packed with vitamins, making for a nutritious, low-calorie, healthy carb holiday leftover idea.

28. 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.

29. 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.

30. 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.

31. 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.

32. 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.

33. 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.

34. 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.

35. 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.

36. 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.

37. 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.

38. 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.

39. 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.

40. 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.

41. 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.

42. 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.

43. 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.

44. 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.

45. 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.

46. 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.

47. 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.

48. 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.

49. 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.

50. 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.

51. 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.

52. 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.

53. Crunchwrap

A twist on the classic crunchwrap, this Thanksgiving leftover idea layers turkey with some of your favorite Thanksgiving sides, including stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. Place these ingredients inside a tortilla. Grill the Thanksgiving leftover sandwich variation until crispy for a portable and delicious way to enjoy your meal with added crunch.

54. Turkey Noodle Soup

How do you deal with leftovers on Thanksgiving? Transform them into a large pot of warm, comforting turkey noodle soup. Shred your turkey and add egg noodles, carrots, celery and broth for a hearty soup. Making your broth from scratch is easy and you can find helpful tips in cooking classes near you. This Thanksgiving leftover idea is perfect for cozying up after the Thanksgiving festivities.

55. Pot Pie with Turkey

This Thanksgiving leftover idea uses turkey to create a creamy pot pie. Mix the meat with vegetables, gravy and leftover mashed potatoes or pie crust. The result is a rich, delicious and satisfying Thanksgiving food idea that transforms some of your favorites into comfort food for the day after.

56. Fried Mashed Potato Balls

For a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe to your leftover roast turkey recipes, try fried mashed potato balls. This Thanksgiving leftover idea turns creamy mashed potatoes into crispy fried potato balls. Simply mix them with cheese, form into balls and fry until golden. Need help using your air fryer? Check out online cooking classes specializing in this fun and functional kitchen tool. This is perfect as a snack, day-after-Thanksgiving appetizer or side dish with dipping sauces.

57. S’mores from Pumpkin Pie

For a sweet Thanksgiving leftover idea, use leftover pumpkin pie to make s’mores. Layer a piece of your favorite Thanksgiving dessert, pumpkin pie, between graham crackers and marshmallows. Toast your creation or hold it over an open fire for a gooey, seasonal dessert treat.

58. Turkey Meatballs

Shredded turkey mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs and an egg can create delicious turkey meatballs. These savory bites can be served with gravy or cranberry sauce for a new spin on leftovers that’s easy to prepare. Enjoy this Thanksgiving leftover idea as a sandwich, or place the meatballs over pasta or rice for a tasty family meal. 

59. Thanksgiving Pizza

Top fresh or store-bought pizza dough with leftover turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce and cheese for a creative pizza that blends holiday flavors with an innovative twist. Bake this Thanksgiving leftover idea until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted. If you have a pizza oven, you can quickly put dinner on the table with this leftover roast turkey recipe in less than half an hour. 

60. Sweet Potato Hash

Chop leftover sweet potatoes into small cubes and combine them with turkey, onions and peppers. Season well and bake on a sheet pan to make a sweet potato hash that pairs beautifully with eggs. This savory Thanksgiving leftover idea is perfect for breakfast or brunch after the big meal.

61. Thanksgiving Quesadillas

Make a new variation of Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches in the form of quesadillas. Fill tortillas with turkey, stuffing, cubed sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and cheese. You can also add some of your Thanksgiving charcuterie board leftovers. Grill the quesadillas until crispy for a delicious, easy-to-make turkey day leftover idea that’s fun to eat.

62. Cranberry Sauce Smoothie

If you are looking for an on-the-go Thanksgiving leftover idea, try making a smoothie. Blend leftover cranberry sauce with yogurt, a banana and milk to create a tart and sweet beverage to take to work or school. It’s a refreshing and healthy way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers.

63. Pumpkin Pie Milkshake

For a sweet treat and delicious Thanksgiving leftover idea, blend pumpkin pie with vanilla ice cream and milk to create a creamy pumpkin pie milkshake. Top with whipped cream and some graham cracker crumbles.  

64. Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole

Layer moist turkey, savory stuffing, creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy in a casserole dish to make a delicious casserole that is an easy Thanksgiving leftover idea.  Bake the mixture until heated through for a simple yet satisfying option that brings all your leftovers together in one crowd-pleasing dish.

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.

65. 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. 

66. 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.

67. 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.

68. 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.

69. 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.

70. 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.

71. 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.

72. 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.

73. 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.

74. 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.

75. 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.

76. 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.

77. 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.

78. 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.

79. 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.

80. 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.

81. 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.

82. 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.

83. 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.

84. 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.

85. 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.

86. 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.

87. 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.

88. 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.

89. 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!