Are you tired of the same old leftovers from your Thanksgiving feast? Look no further! Smoked turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of creative and delicious recipes. Whether you’re looking for something comforting and familiar or something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering leftover smoked turkey recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From soups and stews to sandwiches and salads, these recipes showcase the rich, savory flavor of smoked turkey in all its glory. And the best part? They’re perfect for using up those pesky leftovers you’ve been trying to get rid of. So go ahead, get creative, and turn your leftover turkey into a culinary masterpiece!
Smoked Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, featuring tender smoked turkey, nutty wild rice, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup wild rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the smoked turkey, chicken broth, wild rice, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the wild rice is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Turkey Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This hearty pot pie combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with a flaky, buttery crust, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 2 cups smoked turkey breast or thigh meat, shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the shredded turkey, frozen vegetables, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Roll out the flaky crust dough (see note) to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the turkey mixture and top with more crust or a pie lid.
4. Brush the crust with melted butter and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Note: For flaky crust, combine flour, salt, and cold butter in a bowl. Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until dough forms. Divide into two portions; one for the pie filling and the other for topping.
Smoked Turkey and Cranberry Panini
Elevate your lunch game with this unexpected combination of flavors, perfect for a chilly fall or winter day. Smoked turkey, tangy cranberries, and creamy brie cheese come together in harmony on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of artisanal bread (such as Ciabatta or baguette)
– 2 oz smoked turkey breast
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 wheel of brie cheese, sliced
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of smoked turkey, a few cranberries, and a slice of brie cheese on the unbuttered side of each bread slice.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Smoked Turkey Cobb Salad
A classic salad gets a smoky twist with the addition of tender smoked turkey, crispy bacon, and tangy blue cheese. This refreshing dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 oz smoked turkey breast
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled blue cheese.
2. Slice the smoked turkey breast into thin strips and add on top of the salad.
3. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the turkey.
4. Drizzle olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the salad, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Cheese Quesadillas
A twist on classic quesadillas, these smoked turkey and cheese versions are perfect for a flavorful and satisfying snack or meal. With the smoky flavor of turkey and melted cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless turkey breast, smoked
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the shredded cheese, a few pieces of smoked turkey, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
3. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes
Smoked Turkey Hash with Sweet Potatoes
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups cooked smoked turkey breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, combine smoked turkey, caramelized onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Once sweet potatoes are done, add them to the skillet with the turkey mixture. Stir gently to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook 1 large onion over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and sweet.
Smoked Turkey and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory twist on classic stuffed shells. Smoked turkey and spinach add a rich, meaty flavor to these comforting jumbo shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked turkey, spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the turkey-spinach mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish; cover with marinara sauce.
6. Top with additional mozzarella cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey with sweet corn and creamy potatoes, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, smoked turkey, corn kernels, chicken broth, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Stir in milk or heavy cream to desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Avocado Wrap
A flavorful and refreshing twist on a classic wrap, this recipe combines the smoky goodness of smoked turkey with the creaminess of avocado. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless turkey breast, smoked (or use leftover roasted turkey)
– 2 ripe avocados, sliced
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)
– 1 tablespoon hummus
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat and arrange the smoked turkey slices along the center.
2. Top with sliced avocado, crispy bacon bits (if using), and a dollop of hummus.
3. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Smoked Turkey and Mushroom Risotto
This rich and savory risotto is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. Smoked turkey adds a depth of flavor, while sautéed mushrooms provide an earthy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup smoked turkey breast, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in Parmesan cheese and smoked turkey breast. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Black Bean Enchiladas
Elevate your enchilada game with this unique fusion of smoky turkey, creamy black beans, and crispy tortillas. This recipe combines the best of both worlds in a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast, shredded
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shredded turkey and black beans to the skillet; stir to combine.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble enchiladas: Place a spoonful of turkey mixture onto a tortilla, roll up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas; top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey, steamed broccoli, and a velvety Alfredo sauce, all on a bed of linguine noodles. Perfect for a comforting dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine noodles
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced smoked turkey and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Stir in garlic powder. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked noodles, smoked turkey, broccoli, and Alfredo sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Breakfast Burritos
Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Breakfast Burritos: A savory and satisfying morning meal that combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast, diced
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add diced turkey breast and cook until heated through.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper. Pour into the skillet with the turkey and scramble until cooked through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, smoked turkey, and shredded cheddar cheese. Top with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew combines the tender richness of smoked turkey with the wholesome goodness of lentils, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast or thighs
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced red bell pepper and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender.
5. Add the lentils, smoked turkey, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Brie Grilled Cheese
Elevate your grilled cheese game with this Smoked Turkey and Brie Grilled Cheese recipe, featuring the perfect balance of savory flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as brioche or challah)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 1/4 cup brie cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon fig jam
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, on the grill.
4. Top with smoked turkey, brie cheese, and fig jam.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and garnish with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes per sandwich, depending on grill temperature.
Smoked Turkey and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie
Elevate your comfort food game with this unique twist on a classic shepherd’s pie, featuring tender smoked turkey and sweet potatoes. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, shredded
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add shredded turkey, peas and carrots, and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, boil diced sweet potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and salt.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer smoked turkey mixture, mashed sweet potatoes, and grated cheese (if using).
5. Top with additional mashed sweet potatoes to cover the filling.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Kale Caesar Salad
A twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe combines the smoky flavor of smoked turkey with the earthy sweetness of kale and a tangy homemade Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed
– 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (see below)
– 1/4 cup croutons
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
Homemade Caesar Dressing:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon anchovy paste (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss croutons with a pinch of salt and bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
3. In a large bowl, massage kale leaves with a pinch of salt and lemon juice to tenderize.
4. Slice smoked turkey breast into thin strips.
5. Assemble salad by placing kale mixture on a plate, topping with sliced turkey, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle homemade Caesar dressing over the top.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Turkey and White Bean Chili
This hearty chili is a perfect blend of smoky flavor from the smoked turkey and creamy texture from the white beans, all wrapped up in a rich and tangy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the diced turkey, beans, tomatoes, broth, cumin, and paprika. Stir well.
3. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Pesto Flatbread Pizza
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey and creamy pesto with a crispy flatbread crust, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner or snack. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty pizza in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 store-bought or homemade flatbread
– 4 oz smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the sliced smoked turkey on top of the pesto.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the turkey.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Turkey and Egg Breakfast Tacos
Start your day off right with these flavorful breakfast tacos, featuring tender smoked turkey, creamy scrambled eggs, and a sprinkle of crispy bacon. Perfect for a weekend brunch or quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 6 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth. Add butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble until set, breaking up with a spatula as needed.
3. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble the tacos by placing scrambled eggs on each tortilla, followed by sliced smoked turkey, crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, and crumbled bacon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover smoked turkey! This collection of 20 delicious recipes will inspire you to transform last night’s dinner into a new culinary masterpiece. From comforting soups and stews to innovative sandwiches, salads, and wraps, these flavorful ideas are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast solution or a satisfying lunch or dinner option, this list has something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy your leftover smoked turkey in a whole new way!
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