Thanksgiving is one of the biggest holidays in the US, and for many, it’s a time to gather with family and friends over a massive meal. Once the holiday is over, though, many people find themselves with a fridge full of leftovers and no idea what to do with them. That’s where this article comes in – we’re going to give you some ideas and inspiration for what to make the day after Thanksgiving with all those leftover dishes.
Whether you have turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, or all of the above, we have recipes and suggestions that will help you transform those leftovers into delicious, satisfying meals. So don’t let those leftovers go to waste – read on to discover some creative ways to repurpose them into new and exciting dishes.
Creative Ways to Use Leftover Turkey
Thanksgiving leftovers are as much a tradition as the holiday itself. If you’re trying to figure out what to do with all that leftover turkey, here are some creative ideas. Make pot pie with a creamy sauce and a flaky crust – perfect comfort food for the colder months. Another delicious option is to turn your leftovers into a turkey sandwich. Just layer some turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and mayo on your choice of bread.
You can also try turkey salad, mix some chopped turkey with celery, onion, mayo, and a little bit of mustard. Serve it on a salad or between two slices of bread. For a more upscale approach, whip up some turkey enchiladas with a tangy salsa. To add a fun twist to your favorite breakfast food, make turkey hash with peppers and onions. If you’re feeling adventurous, give turkey curry a try. The possibilities are endless, and each dish is a tasty way to savor your Thanksgiving feast all over again.
Exciting Recipes for Thanksgiving Leftovers
After Thanksgiving, you are often left with a fridge full of leftovers. Don’t let them go to waste! There are plenty of exciting recipes you can make with your Thanksgiving leftovers.
One popular recipe is turkey pot pie. Combine your leftover turkey with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, peas, and potatoes. Pour the mixture into a pie dish and top with a flaky crust for a delicious and filling meal. Another option is to make a turkey and cranberry sandwich. Toasted bread, leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, and a little mayo make for a tasty and easy lunch. You can also make a warm and comforting turkey noodle soup by combining turkey broth with noodles and vegetables, then adding in leftover turkey. Get creative with your Thanksgiving leftovers and enjoy delicious meals for days to come!
Side Dishes to Make With Thanksgiving Leftovers
The day after Thanksgiving is the perfect time to get creative with leftovers and turn them into new and exciting dishes. When it comes to side dishes, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. One idea is to make a turkey cranberry salad, which combines leftover sliced turkey, dried cranberries, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and honey. This salad is a great way to use up leftover turkey while also adding a fruity twist to your meal.
Another side dish to make with Thanksgiving leftovers is a stuffing and green bean casserole. To make this dish, simply mix leftover stuffing and green beans in a casserole dish, top with a layer of mashed potatoes, and bake until golden brown and crispy. This casserole is the perfect way to use up multiple Thanksgiving leftovers in one dish and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. These side dishes are perfect for those looking to get creative with Thanksgiving leftovers and make the most out of their holiday feast.
Decadent Desserts to Enjoy After Thanksgiving
The day after Thanksgiving is a great time to indulge in some decadent desserts. After all, you deserve it after all that turkey and stuffing! From pies to cakes to rich chocolate treats, there are so many options to choose from.
Consider making a classic pumpkin pie with a twist by adding a creamy cheesecake layer on top. Or, try a rich and buttery pecan tart that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. For chocolate lovers, a gooey molten lava cake is always a crowd-pleaser. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own homemade ice cream with seasonal flavors like apple cider or eggnog. No matter what you choose, these indulgent desserts are the perfect way to cap off your Thanksgiving feast and start the holiday season off right!
Delicious Breakfast Ideas for the Day After Thanksgiving
After all the feasting and indulgence of Thanksgiving, it’s important to start the day after with a healthy and filling breakfast, and what better way to do that than with some delicious breakfast ideas. One of the easiest and most popular options is to make a simple breakfast sandwich with leftover turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. This can be accompanied by some roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes, and a side of fresh fruit or a green smoothie to balance out the meal.
Alternatively, you could also make some pancakes or waffles using leftover pumpkin puree or sweet potato, and then top them off with some whipped cream, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Another idea is to make a breakfast quiche using leftover vegetables, cheese, and eggs, which can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Let these delicious breakfast ideas inspire you as you get ready to start your day after Thanksgiving on a good note.
Comforting Soups to Warm You Up After Thanksgiving
After indulging in a giant feast on Thanksgiving day, it’s only natural to crave something light and comforting to alleviate your food hangover. And what’s more satisfying than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly autumn day? Thankfully, the leftovers from your Thanksgiving meal can be turned into delicious soups, making good use of every ingredient while reducing food waste.
Turkey soup is a classic choice for post-Thanksgiving meal, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes and add some new flavors to the mix. Try a hearty vegetable soup loaded with sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, and corn – it’s a perfect way to get back on track with your healthy eating habits after a day of overindulging. Alternatively, you can make a creamy mushroom soup or a spicy squash soup for a more exotic flavor. Whatever you choose, a bowl of hot soup is sure to restore your energy and lift your spirits after a long holiday weekend.
Simple and Easy Meals for the Day After Thanksgiving
After indulging in a Thanksgiving feast, the day after can feel like a culinary letdown. However, there’s no need to resort to leftovers or takeout. There are plenty of simple and easy meals to whip up the day after Thanksgiving that are sure to satisfy.
One option is to make a turkey or ham sandwich with all the fixings. Use the leftover protein, add some bread, mayo, lettuce, tomato, and any other condiments you prefer, and you have a satisfying meal in minutes. Another easy meal idea is to make a turkey or ham stir-fry. Use any leftover vegetables and meat, sauté them in a pan, and serve over rice or noodles. These simple and easy meals are perfect for a stress-free day after Thanksgiving.
The Conclusion
There are endless possibilities for what to make the day after Thanksgiving, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether it be incorporating leftovers into a creative dish or starting fresh with a new recipe, the day after Thanksgiving can be just as delicious as the holiday itself.
Regardless of what is made, the most important aspect is taking the time to relax, enjoy time with loved ones, and appreciate all the blessings of the season. So, whether you’re fixing up a classic turkey sandwich or experimenting with a new recipe, embrace the post-Thanksgiving meal and savor the cozy holiday spirit.