Thanksgiving is a time for feasting and family, but it can also leave us with a fridge full of delicious leftovers. Instead of letting those tasty dishes go to waste, why not get creative? Here are three diverse and practical examples of Thanksgiving leftovers creative uses that will not only help you clear out your fridge but also delight your taste buds!
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup. This recipe is perfect for using up turkey, veggies, and even some stuffing from your Thanksgiving feast.
Start by sautéing any leftover vegetables you have, such as carrots, celery, and onions, in a large pot until they become tender. Add in your leftover turkey, shredded or diced, along with any broth you have on hand. For added flavor, toss in some herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes. If you have leftover stuffing, you can stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking to thicken the soup and give it extra flavor. Serve your soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top for a comforting meal.
Notes: Feel free to use any leftover vegetables or grains! You can also blend the soup for a creamier texture if you prefer.
Give your Thanksgiving leftovers a Mexican twist with these delicious quesadillas! This dish is quick to prepare and makes for a perfect lunch or dinner.
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Take a tortilla and layer on some shredded turkey, a few spoonfuls of cranberry sauce, and a generous sprinkle of cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great). Top it with another tortilla and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Cut into wedges and serve with additional cranberry sauce or a side of guacamole for a fun, festive meal that’s sure to impress!
Notes: You can also add other ingredients like spinach or jalapeños for an extra kick. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination!
Transform your leftover sweet potatoes into a delightful breakfast with these sweet potato pancakes topped with marshmallows. This recipe is not only a great way to use up those leftovers but also a fun way to start your day!
In a bowl, mash about one cup of cooked sweet potatoes. Add in one cup of flour, two eggs, half a cup of milk, and a teaspoon of baking powder. Mix until you have a smooth batter. Heat a skillet over medium heat and pour in a ladle of the batter to form a pancake. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
As a finishing touch, top your pancakes with mini marshmallows and a drizzle of maple syrup. You can even pop them under the broiler for a minute to toast the marshmallows for extra flavor!
Notes: You can substitute the sweet potatoes with any leftover squash or pumpkin puree. Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, festive flavor!
These examples of Thanksgiving leftovers creative uses not only help you reduce food waste but also give you the opportunity to enjoy your holiday favorites in new and exciting ways. Happy cooking!