Kitchen

4 Easy Ways to Transform Your Thanksgiving Leftovers

by Alexa Villano
November 28, 2025

Not sure what to do with your post-holiday leftovers? Here are quick, tasty ideas your family will love

Got a fridge full of Thanksgiving leftovers and not sure what to do with them? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Once the turkey has been carved and the feast is over, we all know the next challenge is figuring out how to stretch those leftovers without getting tired of the same plate over and over again.

The good news: You can easily give new life to your Thanksgiving staples with a few pantry favorites and a little creativity. Here are four simple, family-friendly ideas you can whip up—and even share with friends who are in the same post-holiday boat.

1. Hot Turkey Sandwich

Leftover turkey makes a hearty, comforting sandwich that you can enjoy for lunch, merienda, or a quick dinner.

How to make it:
Slice your leftover turkey and lightly fry it in a bit of butter and olive oil to warm it up.
Grab your favorite crusty bread and spread on some mayo, mustard, or any condiment you love.
Layer the warm turkey slices, add fresh veggies like lettuce and tomatoes, and season with salt, pepper, or your go-to herbs.
Slice, serve, and enjoy with your preferred drink.

2. Turkey Wraps

If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey wraps are a fresh and easy alternative.

How to make it:
Lay out a pita bread or tortilla.
Add slices of turkey, your choice of vegetables, a dollop of mayonnaise or dressing, and your favorite seasoning.
Roll it up snugly—and that’s it! Perfect for kids’ baon or a quick snack.

3. Potato Fritters

Leftover mashed potatoes? Turn them into crispy, golden fritters the whole family will love.

How to make it:
Scoop some mashed potatoes and shape them into small patties. Mix in leftover veggies if you have any.
Heat oil in a pan and fry the patties until they’re crisp and golden on both sides.
Drain excess oil and serve with or without a dip—easy, delicious, and zero waste.

4. Shepherd’s Pie

One of the easiest and most comforting ways to use mashed potatoes is to transform them into a cozy Shepherd’s Pie.

How to make it:
In a skillet, brown ground beef. Add onions and garlic, cooking until the onions turn translucent.
Mix in vegetables, beef broth, flour, and aromatics like dill or parsley. Season well with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Spread your leftover mashed potatoes evenly on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden.
Let it cool slightly before serving it to your family.

Be Creative With Your Leftovers

Leftover turkey, stuffing, potatoes, or even cranberry sauce—all of these can be reinvented into new dishes with just a few tweaks. With a bit of creativity (and plenty of ideas online!), you can turn your Thanksgiving surplus into meals your family will genuinely enjoy.

Happy cooking—and happy recycling!