Thanksgiving might be the main event for turkey, but the versatility of this lean, flavorful meat makes it perfect for enjoying all year round. Whether you have leftovers from the big day or want to incorporate more turkey into your regular meals, there are plenty of creative and delicious ways to enjoy it beyond the holiday feast. Here are 10 ideas to inspire your next turkey-based meal!

Benefits of Eating Turkey

• Great source of protein
• Lean meat option
• Rich in B-complex vitamins
• Heart healthy meat
• Easy to prepare
• Versatile protein

Turkey Recipe Inspiration

1. Turkey Tacos

Swap out traditional ground beef for shredded or ground turkey to create a lighter, healthier version of everyone’s favorite weeknight meal: tacos! Season the turkey with spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika, then pile it into soft tortillas with fresh toppings like avocado, salsa, and shredded lettuce.

2. Turkey Chili

Turkey makes a great substitute for ground beef in a hearty chili. The lean meat adds rich flavor without the extra fat, making for a wholesome dish that’s perfect for a cold day. Add beans, tomatoes, onions, and spices for a delicious, protein-packed chili that can be enjoyed as leftovers or frozen for later.

3. Turkey Salad

Give your salads a boost by adding turkey! Shredded or cubed roasted turkey can be tossed into a bed of mixed greens, cranberries, walnuts, and a light vinaigrette for a delicious and protein-rich meal. Turkey salad is a great way to use leftovers and works well as a light lunch or dinner.

4. Turkey Sandwiches

One of the easiest and most beloved ways to use leftover turkey is in a sandwich. Layer slices of turkey on whole grain bread with cranberry sauce, stuffing, or avocado for a satisfying post-Thanksgiving treat. Or, to switch things up, try a turkey panini or a wrap with your favorite veggies and a drizzle of mustard or mayo. And, you can even add turkey onto a grilled cheese! Try our recipes for BBQ Turkey Avocado Wrap or Turkey Jalapeno Grilled Cheese.

5. Turkey Soup

Transform your leftover turkey into a comforting turkey soup. This is a great way to reduce food waste and use the whole turkey carcass! If you like chicken noodle soup, then this is very similar! Try our recipe for Turkey Carcass Soup. Feel free to add noodles in too.

6. Turkey Meatballs

Ground turkey can easily be made into tasty meatballs for a lighter twist on traditional beef or pork. Mix with breadcrumbs, herbs, and Parmesan, then bake or sauté until golden brown. Serve with marinara sauce over spaghetti or enjoy turkey meatballs on their own as a protein-packed snack. Try replacing turkey in our Rosemary Meatball recipe.

7. Turkey Stir-Fry

For a quick and healthy weeknight meal, try a turkey stir-fry. Cook thin slices of turkey with a mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, then toss everything in a soy-based sauce with a hint of ginger and garlic. Serve over rice or noodles for a flavorful, balanced meal.

8. Turkey Pot Pie

Turn leftover turkey into a comforting turkey pot pie. Combine turkey, peas, carrots, and a creamy sauce under a flaky pie crust for a dish that feels like a cozy, hearty dinner. It’s a great way to use up leftover turkey and vegetables, and it freezes well for future meals. Try using leftover turkey in place of beef in our Hearty Meat Pie.

9. Turkey Burgers

Switch up your burger game by making turkey burgers instead of beef. Ground turkey is a leaner meat, but still full of flavor. Add seasoning, herbs, and perhaps a little grated onion or zucchini for extra moisture, then grill or pan-fry. Top with your favorite burger fixings like cheese, lettuce, and tomato for a healthy, satisfying meal. Try our recipe for Loaded Turkey Burgers.

10. Turkey Quesadillas

For a quick and cheesy snack or light meal, try turkey quesadillas. Layer shredded turkey, cheese, and veggies between two tortillas, then cook in a skillet until golden and crispy. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side. This dish is simple to make and perfect for using up leftover turkey!

Don’t Chicken Out

When you’re looking for a lean and versatile meat, give turkey a try in place of the classic chicken! Turkey is more than just a Thanksgiving centerpiece. With its versatility, lean protein, and mild flavor, it’s a fantastic ingredient that can be used in a wide array of dishes year-round. From salads to soups, burgers to tacos, these ideas will help you enjoy turkey in creative and delicious ways well beyond the holiday season.