Best Ways to Use Thanksgiving Leftovers

Thanksgiving may be just one day, but the leftovers can fuel a week’s worth of creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a comforting Thanksgiving leftover casserole, a hearty turkey soup, or something fun for brunch, the possibilities are endless. Let’s explore delicious and practical ways to give those festive flavors new life.

The Classic: Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich

The Thanksgiving leftover sandwich is iconic for a reason — layers of turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and gravy between slices of bread capture the entire holiday in one bite.

But you can elevate it! Try it pressed like a panini with melted cheese, swap bread for a croissant or wrap, or even pile it onto waffles for a sweet-savory twist. Add a few greens or pickled onions for freshness and contrast.

Question: How can I keep a leftover sandwich from getting soggy?
Use sturdy bread, toast it lightly, and layer cranberry sauce or stuffing between the turkey and bread to act as a barrier against moisture.

Warm Comfort: Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole

When you’re craving comfort food, a Thanksgiving leftover casserole is your answer. It’s the easiest way to bring all your leftovers together into one cozy dish.

Layer turkey, vegetables, mashed potatoes, and stuffing, then bake until golden. Or try mixing them with cream of mushroom soup or gravy for an extra-rich texture.

For a fresher spin, fold in roasted veggies or add a crunchy breadcrumb topping for texture.

Question: Can I make a leftover casserole ahead of time?
Yes — it actually gets better when the flavors meld overnight. Assemble it, refrigerate, and bake the next day.

Soup Season: Transform It Into Thanksgiving Leftover Soup

The ultimate way to stretch your feast is with a Thanksgiving leftover soup or turkey soup.

Simmer your turkey bones for a homemade broth, then add chopped vegetables, herbs, and any extra rice or stuffing for a hearty twist. Leftover gravy can also add depth to the flavor.

For something creamy, stir in mashed potatoes as a thickener — it’s a clever trick that reduces waste and boosts richness.

Question: What can I use instead of turkey in leftover soup?
You can use chicken, ham, or even roasted vegetables — whatever you have on hand. It’s all about the flavor base.

Brunch Ideas: Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast

Who says Thanksgiving leftovers are only for lunch or dinner? Turn them into a Thanksgiving leftover breakfast that’s as indulgent as the feast itself.

Try folding turkey and stuffing into omelets, using mashed potatoes for breakfast patties or pancakes, or layering leftovers into a breakfast bake with eggs and cheese.

Even sweet potato casserole can make a quick morning treat — think of it as a ready-made hash base topped with fried eggs.

Question: Can I freeze Thanksgiving leftovers for later breakfasts?
Absolutely. Freeze individual portions in airtight containers — especially mashed potatoes, turkey, and casseroles — for easy future meals.

Savory Bakes: Turkey Pot Pie and Beyond

A turkey pot pie is one of the most beloved ways to reinvent Thanksgiving dinner. Creamy filling, flaky crust, and tender bits of turkey — it’s pure comfort in a dish.

You can also make mini pot pies with puff pastry or biscuit dough. Add leftover vegetables like peas and carrots, and a spoonful of gravy to tie everything together.

For something lighter, skip the crust and turn it into a creamy turkey stew topped with herbs.

Question: Can I use leftover gravy as pie filling?
Yes! Combine it with turkey and vegetables for a rich, flavorful base — just make sure it’s not too thick before baking.

Creative Twists: Mashed Potato Magic

Don’t overlook your leftover mashed potatoes — they’re one of the most versatile Thanksgiving leftovers.

Turn them into mashed potato pancakes, shepherd’s pie topping, or even gnocchi-like dumplings for soup. For a fun appetizer, shape mashed potatoes into croquettes, coat with breadcrumbs, and bake until crisp.

Question: How do I keep mashed potato pancakes from falling apart?
Mix in an egg and a spoonful of flour or breadcrumbs for structure before pan-frying or baking.

Beyond the Table: Other Leftover Ideas

Still have cranberry sauce? Turn it into salad dressing or glaze for roast chicken.
Leftover stuffing? Use it as a filling for mushrooms or to top baked eggs.
Even pie crust scraps can become sweet treats — sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and bake for snackable twists.

These small reinventions save food, reduce waste, and let the holiday joy last a little longer.

Frequently Asked Thanksgiving Leftover Questions

How long do Thanksgiving leftovers last?
Most cooked dishes last 3–4 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Always store them in airtight containers.

Can I mix all my leftovers into one dish?
You can — that’s how casseroles and hashes are born! Just make sure the flavors complement each other.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Use the oven or stovetop rather than the microwave for better texture, especially for turkey and stuffing.

Is it safe to reheat turkey twice?
Yes, but only once more after the first cook — and make sure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Thanksgiving leftovers are more than just reheated meals — they’re opportunities to get creative. From a Thanksgiving leftover sandwich to a comforting turkey pot pie or mashed potato pancakes, these ideas turn surplus into something special. With a little imagination, your Thanksgiving feast can truly last all week.