89 Easy Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas to Keep Feasting in 2025

With the feast done and the chairs pushed back, the fun part starts: figuring out how to turn all those leftovers into something fresh. According to ReFED, more than 267 million holiday meals go uneaten each Thanksgiving — a huge amount of good food that deserves better than getting tossed or forgotten.

The good news is that leftovers don’t have to mean reheated plates or soggy sides. With a little imagination, turkey, stuffing and veggies can become tasty next-day breakfasts, bright salads, hearty casseroles or easy handhelds that feel intentional instead of thrown together. Whether you want comfort or something quick and fresh, these Thanksgiving leftover ideas will help you carry the holiday into the week in the best way.

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

Casseroles are the shortcut everyone forgets about until Thanksgiving weekend hits. Suddenly all those bits of leftover turkey, vegetables and sides turn into something warm and oddly comforting — the kind of dish that makes the fridge raid feel intentional. MasterClass even traces its history back to the Greek word kuathion (“little cup”), which later evolved into the baked, all-in-one meals we rely on now. No wonder they’ve become a post-Thanksgiving go-to.

1. Green Bean Casserole

A true Thanksgiving classic, and luckily, it holds up beautifully the next day too. Tender green beans, creamy mushroom sauce and those crispy fried onions make it one of the easiest Thanksgiving sides to revive.

2. Butternut Squash and Kale Casserole

Roasted squash and kale make a hearty base, especially if you’re trying to balance out the richer dishes on this list. Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs bring it all together, turning leftover squash into something warm and wholesome.

3. Scalloped Pineapple Casserole

Sweet meets savory in this Thanksgiving casserole. Scalloped pineapple casserole combines tangy pineapple chunks with a buttery, breaded topping that cuts through all the heavy Thanksgiving flavors you’ve probably been eating for days. It’s surprisingly good next to anything still hanging around from the main feast.

4. Pumpkin Ricotta Casserole

If you’ve got leftover pumpkin purée, this is a softer, cozier way to use it than another pie slice. Ricotta cheese keeps it creamy, nutmeg and cinnamon give it warmth, and it works as either a side or a lighter main. Think of it as the casserole version of skipping the cheese plate this year.

5. Gratin Casserole

Potato gratin never really needs a reason, but post-Thanksgiving it becomes the catch-all dish that ties the plate together. Thin potatoes baked in cream and cheese give you that luxurious, bubbling top that pairs with any leftovers — turkey, ham, roasted veg, whatever survived the holiday.

6. Mac & Cheese Casserole

When in doubt, turn leftovers into mac and cheese. 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

Whether you’ve got mashed potatoes or whole roasted ones left, they all fold easily into a rustic potato bake with butter, herbs and plenty of cheese. And it’s even better with a spoonful of leftover gravy over the top.

8. Pecan Sweet Potato Casserole

Leftover sweet potato dishes practically beg to become this casserole. Mash them smooth, add warm spices and finish with a pecan crumble for crunch. It leans sweet but still belongs on a Thanksgiving-round-two plate, especially if you’re mixing it with the more savory casseroles.

9. Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Casserole

Roasted Brussels sprouts and crispy bacon get a second life once they’re covered in a light cheese sauce and baked until bubbly. The smoky bacon helps sell this one to anyone who “doesn’t do” sprouts, and it’s a good way to clear out the vegetable tray without feeling like you’re eating leftovers.

10. Cornbread and Sausage Casserole

If the cornbread didn’t get finished, this is the move. Combine crumbled cornbread with sausage, eggs and herbs and you’ve suddenly got a hearty Thanksgiving breakfast idea or brunch casserole that still feels like Thanksgiving. 

11. Cheddar, Broccoli and Rice Casserole

This Thanksgiving idea turns basic ingredients into a comforting meal. Cheddar cheese, 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 milder ingredients without sacrificing flavor.

12. Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole

The easiest way to use up extra turkey without making yet another sandwich. Wild rice adds a nutty texture, the creamy sauce pulls everything together and the herbs keep it firmly in Thanksgiving territory. 

13. Stuffing Casserole with Cranberries

Stuffing is already halfway to casserole, so this one barely feels like work. Mix your leftover stuffing with cranberries and bake until the top is crisp. The tart fruit gives the whole dish a lift, especially if your stuffing leaned savory or rich the first time around.

Healthy Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas

When you’ve reached the point where you’re craving something lighter — or at least something green — these healthier Thanksgiving leftover ideas keep all the flavor without the heaviness. They’re fresh, balanced and make leftovers feel like a reset instead of round two of indulgence.

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, then add a spoonful of cranberry sauce for sweetness. A citrus vinaigrette pulls the flavors together and makes for a balanced and refreshing lunch.

15. Turkey Broth

Once the turkey’s carved, the bones can still do a lot of work. Simmer them with onions, carrots and celery to make a fresh turkey broth, a simple Thanksgiving leftover idea you can use as a base for soups, easy weeknight meals or just sip when you want something warm and savory.

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 bowl. It is one of the more wholesome Thanksgiving leftover ideas when you want something that still feels substantial.

17. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Turkey

Stuff fresh bell peppers with leftover turkey, quinoa or brown rice, vegetables and your favorite herbs, then bake until tender for a low-calorie dish you can serve alone or 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 you have for Thanksgiving dinner besides turkey? Ham is a tasty alternative that can be turned into a delicious grain bowl. 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. Roasted Turkey and Brussels Sprouts Stir-Fry

Toss or stir-fry leftover turkey with 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 a bit of Asian influence. It is a quick way to use leftovers that you can turn into dinner in less than 30 minutes.

20. Turkey and Sweet Potato Salad

Turn leftover slices of turkey and sweet potatoes into a hearty salad for the day after the holiday. Toss the leftovers with mixed greens, avocado and a light homemade vinaigrette using olive oil, citrus juice and mustard. If you want Thanksgiving leftover ideas that give you a protein-rich meal without much effort, this is a good pick.

21. Mashed Cauliflower and Turkey Shepherd's Pie

Leftover cauliflower doesn’t need much encouragement to shine. Swap it in for mashed potatoes on a turkey shepherd’s pie, layer in the shredded turkey and any stray vegetables, then bake until the top gets that soft golden crust. Pies always show up in Thanksgiving leftover ideas, but swapping the mash gives it a bit of a glow-up.

22. Turkey and Cranberry Salad Wrap

Turkey and cranberry always end up beside each other on the plate, so rolling them into a wrap is a no-brainer. Simply mix leftover turkey with a little Greek yogurt, celery and the last spoonfuls of cranberry sauce, then tuck it into a whole-grain wrap. It’s one of those low-calorie Thanksgiving leftover ideas that works especially well when you want a lighter lunch without the guilt.

23. Turkey-Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Zucchini boats are a clever way to stretch whatever’s left in the fridge. Scoop out the centers, fill them with chopped turkey, tomatoes and a bit of brown rice or quinoa, then bake until tender. Not only is this a low-carb, high-protein meal, but it's also satisfying and full of flavor. 

24. 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. 

25. Cranberry and Turkey Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice earns its place in Thanksgiving leftover ideas because it turns leftovers into something colorful and filling. Toss turkey with wild rice, fresh greens and cranberries for a salad that's both hearty and bright. 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. So you can feel good about what you're eating.

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 even add a bit of feta cheese for a creamy texture. This protein-rich holiday leftover idea is a great way to start your day and use up extra turkey at the same time.

27. Turkey and Butternut Squash Salad

If you're still working out how to use up that leftover squash, it belongs in a salad with turkey, red onion and baby greens. Add a light vinaigrette to tie everything together. It’s packed with vitamins, making for a nutritious, low-calorie, healthy carb holiday leftover idea.

28. Squash Casserole

Still have more squash? Why not make a squash casserole? 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

Sweet potatoes and turkey practically beg to share a pan. Sauté them with onions and herbs for a quick hash that feels like a warm breakfast but eats like a full meal. It’s one of the more filling Thanksgiving leftover ideas, and it works well when you’re tired of all those cold turkey sandwiches.

30. Pastry-Topped Turkey Casserole

A simple turkey casserole gets a lighter twist with a whole-wheat pastry top. Layer in leftover turkey and vegetables, pour over a basic sauce and bake until the crust is crisp. 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 the old reliable of Thanksgiving leftover ideas for a reason. Simmer the bones for broth, add leftover meat and whatever vegetables you still have hanging around. 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. Spoon chopped turkey and veggies into crisp leaves with a light sauce for an unfussy, low-carb option. 

34. Turkey Cauliflower Rice Bowl

Cauliflower rice turns leftover turkey into a bowl that feels lighter but still satisfying. Add herbs, veggies and a drizzle of sauce and it’s ready. 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. Turkey and Avocado Salad

This 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.

38. Roasted Veggie and Turkey Stir-Fry

Take your leftover roasted veggies and turkey and create a healthy stir-fry. This leftover recipe 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.

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 come together fast, make the most of whatever’s in your fridge and keep cleanup simple.

40. Turkey Quesadillas with Cranberry Salsa

Want a quick and easy Thanksgiving leftover idea? Quesadillas are the “don’t overthink it” of Thanksgiving leftover ideas. Layer turkey and cheese between tortillas, crisp them up in a pan and spoon on cranberry salsa. It scratches the snacky itch and clears space in the fridge at the same time.

41. Turkey and Pasta Ranch Salad

Cold leftover turkey works surprisingly well in a quick pasta ranch salad. Toss pasta, turkey and whatever crunchy vegetables survived the holiday, then coat it all in ranch. It’s perfect as a light lunch or quick dinner when you need a no-fuss option.

42. Turkey Shepherd's Pie

Mashed potatoes on top, turkey and veg underneath — shepherd’s pie always shows up in Thanksgiving leftover ideas because it’s nearly impossible to get wrong. Bake until the top is golden and let the oven do the heavy lifting.

43. Turkey Veggie Soup

If your leftovers are looking a bit random, soup pulls everything together. Simmer turkey, vegetables and broth and you’ve got one of the easiest Thanksgiving leftover ideas that’s great for using up all your holiday extras without much effort.

44. Turkey Pot Pies

It's surprisingly easy to turn leftover turkey, vegetables and gravy slip neatly into mini pot pies. 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.

45. 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 is one of those bright Thanksgiving leftover ideas that works when you want something fresh but still want to make use of what’s already cooked.

46. Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms

If stuffing is taking up too much fridge space, pack it into mushroom caps, sprinkle with cheese and bake. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving as appetizers at your post-holiday gatherings.

47. Turkey Sliders

Leftover turkey almost feels like it was meant to create easy sliders. Add your turkey, cheese and a touch of cranberry sauce to mini rolls and you're pretty much set. 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.

48. 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.

49. Turkey Enchiladas

For a simple Thanksgiving leftover idea, roll turkey into tortillas with cheese and enchilada sauce, then bake until it bubbles. It’s one of those Thanksgiving leftover ideas that gives the meal a totally different direction without much extra effort.

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 with spinach and eggs and any other leftovers you want to throw in. It makes for a hearty 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, layer turkey with some of your favorite Thanksgiving sides, including stuffing, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce on a tortilla and grill 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? Turkey noodle soup is the easy answer. Shred the turkey, add egg noodles, carrots, celery and broth and let it all simmer. And if you want to try making your own broth, you’ll find cooking classes in Chicago, Austin, Seattle or cooking classes near you or online cooking classes that walk you through it step by step. 

55. Pot Pie with Turkey

A pot pie built from leftovers always feels more impressive than the effort required. Turkey, vegetables, gravy and either mashed potatoes or crust come together quickly, making it an easy Thanksgiving food idea that feels like a full reset meal.

56. Fried Mashed Potato Balls

If mashed potatoes survived the feast, turning them into fried potato balls is a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe you can include in the mix. Mix with cheese, roll, fry — done. They’re one of the most addictive Thanksgiving leftover ideas you can put on a plate, perfect as a snack, a day-after-Thanksgiving appetizer or a 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

Mix together shredded leftover turkey mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs and an egg and you've got delicious turkey meatballs. Serve with someof that leftover gravy or cranberry sauce for a new spin on Thanksgiving leftover ideas that works just as well as a sandwich as it does 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 mozzarella cheese for a creative pizza that blends holiday flavors with an innovative twist. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and 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. Serve for breakfast or brunch the day after the big meal.

61. Thanksgiving Quesadillas

A more over-the-top take on quesadillas: turkey, stuffing, sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes, cheese — all folded in and grilled. You can also add some of your Thanksgiving charcuterie board leftovers if you've got any.

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

Pumpkin pie meets vanilla ice cream for a milkshake that tastes like November in a cup. Smooth, sweet and an easy Thanksgiving leftover idea when dessert is still calling your name. 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. This is the catch-all of Thanksgiving leftover ideas — simple, satisfying and the last stop before the fridge is officially cleared.

Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich Ideas

Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into handheld meals with these creative sandwich ideas. These ideas take everything you already have in the fridge and repurpose it into warm melts and crisp toasts that taste just as good as the holiday itself.

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

Give your leftover turkey a deli-style makeover by turning it into a Reuben. Pile on Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and Russian dressing, grill it on rye and you get a warm, tangy Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that tastes completely different from yesterday’s plate.

67. Turkey Banh Mi

A turkey banh mi takes your Thanksgiving leftover ideas in a completely different direction. Stuff a baguette with turkey, pickled veggies, cilantro and spicy mayo and you’ve suddenly got a sandwich with bold flavor and zero heaviness.

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

If you're after something unfussy, turkey salad sandwiches do the job. Mix leftover turkey with your favorite add-ins — celery, herbs or a little yogurt — then pile it onto bread with lettuce. It’s a classic Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that's perfect for lunches in the days following Thanksgiving.

70. Turkey and Pesto Panini

A panini is one of the easiest ways to make leftover turkey taste fresh again. Press it with mozzarella and pesto and suddenly you’ve got a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that leans more café lunch than day-after scramble. The pesto brightens the turkey, and the melted cheese ties it all together.

71. Turkey Caesar Wrap

For a lighter sandwich option, make a turkey Caesar wrap. It tucks leftover turkey into romaine with a swipe of Caesar dressing, giving you a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner after the holiday.

72. Turkey and Coleslaw Sandwich

That last bit of coleslaw can be a blessing — pile it on turkey and you’ve got crunch, tang and freshness in one place. 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

When you’re grazing rather than cooking, a turkey tortilla wrap is the easiest thing to pull together. Add cheese or veggies if you have them, or just keep it simple. It’s a flexible Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that works no matter what’s left in the fridge.

74. Turkey and Mashed Potato Grilled Cheese

Turning mashed potatoes into a spread for grilled cheese sounds strange until you taste it. Add sliced turkey and melty cheese and you’ll understand why this Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea is so popular — it’s pure comfort between two slices of toasted bread.

75. Gravy and Cranberry Sourdough Sandwich

We've already done this combo, but some leftovers just belong together. Turkey, gravy and cranberry sauce piled on toasted sourdough make a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich idea that’s a little messy but completely worth it. The sourdough adds enough tang to balance the sweet and savory layers.

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 and turn them into warm, comforting meals that taste just as good the next day.

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 the 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. Turkey Cranberry Flatbread

Cranberry sauce makes a great stand-in for pizza sauce. 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. 

79. Leftover Stuffing Waffles

Stuffing takes surprisingly well to a waffle iron. Press it in until the edges crisp, then serve with a little gravy or a spoonful of cranberry sauce. You won't be disappointed.

80. Turkey Lasagna

Lasagna is the leftover move that never asks you to overthink it — you can layer in almost anything from the fridge and it still comes out right. Turkey, ricotta, marinara and noodles bake into something rich and comforting, a little Italian, a little Thanksgiving, and exactly what you want when the holiday dishes are still stacked in the sink.

81. Turkey Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes

Yes, it’s pie again — maybe pie was born for leftovers. And when you’ve got a mix of turkey and vegetables waiting to be used, a shepherd’s pie just makes sense. Layer everything in a dish, spread mashed potatoes over the top and bake until it forms that golden, cozy crust. It turns the whole collection of leftovers into one warm, no-fuss meal.

82. Turkey and Pumpkin Soup

Turkey and pumpkin already show up together on the table, so it’s an easy jump to turn them into a velvety soup. Leftover turkey and canned pumpkin simmer down into something warm, herbal and a little sweet. It’s a delicious way to enjoy your leftovers in a wholesome, seasonal dish.

83. Turkey Fried Rice

Turkey fried rice leans into that “use what you’ve got” spirit. Turkey, rice, veggies and a splash of soy sauce come together to give you something that tastes nothing like Thanksgiving but uses it all the same. It’s a quick, familiar weeknight fix disguised as a leftover idea.

84. Cranberry and Turkey Tacos

If you’ve hit the point where you can’t look at another plate of beige leftovers, switch directions entirely. Turkey tacos with cranberry salsa wake everything up in one bite and take all of about five minutes to pull together.

85. Stuffing Muffins

Some leftovers only need heat to become something better, and stuffing is top of that list. Pack it into a muffin tin, bake until the edges get crunchy, and suddenly you’ve got these savory little bites that behave like snacks instead of scraps. No reinvention, no extra fuss.

86. Turkey and Stuffing Quiche

This one leans more “Sunday brunch” than “day-after scramble.” Press stuffing into the base of a pie dish, pour in eggs, turkey and whatever cheese survived the holiday, and let the oven do the rest. It slices cleanly, keeps well and feels like an entirely new meal rather than a remix.

87. Leftover Hand Pies

Hand pies are where all the tiny leftover bits finally find their purpose. A spoonful of turkey here, a swipe of cranberry there, a little stuffing if you’ve got it — seal it all in pastry and bake until golden. They’re fun to assemble, easy to carry and perfect for anyone who wants Thanksgiving without the whole plate.

88. Turkey Vegetable Soup with Dumplings

If your fridge looks like a Tupperware convention, this soup quietly fixes that. Everything — turkey, stray vegetables, the last herbs — goes into the pot. Add dumplings and watch them puff into soft clouds while the broth pulls everything together. It’s the kind of meal you forget you needed until you taste it.

89. Open-Faced Hot Turkey Sandwiches

Nothing clever here, and that’s the charm. Lay turkey on toasted bread, drown it (lightly or not) in warm gravy and grab a fork. It hits the same comfort level as the original dinner without any ceremony, which is exactly why people keep coming back to it year after year.

Hosting Thanksgiving is no small feat, and enjoying delicious leftovers is a well-earned reward after all your hard work. After rushing around on Turkey Day trying to find the stores that are open on Thanksgiving, having a fridge full of possibilities feels pretty satisfying. So when you’re wondering what to have after Thanksgiving dinner, any of these ideas is a good place to start.

Whether you turn them into cozy casseroles, light next-day salads, quick sandwiches or classic comfort dishes, there’s no wrong way to keep the holiday flavor going. With a little inspiration, the meals after Thanksgiving can be just as memorable as the feast itself.

For even more great things to try this Thanksgiving, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!