Are you tired of eating the same old leftovers every night? Do you find yourself getting creative with ways to reuse your turkey, but still feeling stuck? Well, we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll share 20 delicious and easy-to-make crockpot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From soups to casseroles, chowders to curries, these ideas will take your leftover turkey from bland to grand.
Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent looking for quick and easy meals to get on the table, these recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They’re all made with just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, so you can spend more time relaxing and less time cooking.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of our favorite leftover turkey crockpot recipes that are perfect for using up those Thanksgiving leftovers (or any old turkey you may have lying around). From classic comfort foods to international twists, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to take your mealtime game to the next level!
Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Soup is a delicious blend of savory turkey, nutty wild rice, and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, onion)
• 1 cup wild rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the turkey, mixed vegetables, and thyme in a little oil until the turkey is browned.
2. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Season with pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Tetrazzini
Slow Cooker Turkey Tetrazzini Recipe
Summary: This recipe transforms leftover turkey into a creamy, comforting casserole that’s perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup diced cooked turkey breast
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine turkey, mushrooms, peas and carrots, soup, broth, thyme, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About an hour before serving, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
4. To assemble the casserole, place cooked noodles at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon turkey mixture over noodles.
5. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Return to slow cooker for an additional 30 minutes to melt cheese.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of roasted turkey with savory stuffing and melted cheese, perfect for a cozy dinner or leftovers for the next day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups homemade stuffing (bread, vegetables, herbs)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add diced turkey, peas and carrots, and stuffing; stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter with milk and shredded cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and layer the turkey mixture followed by the cheesy mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Turkey Chili with Beans
Spicy Turkey Chili with Beans Recipe
Get ready to warm up with this hearty and flavorful Spicy Turkey Chili with Beans!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the canned tomatoes, beans, and chicken broth; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines tender turkey with an assortment of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices. With minimal preparation time, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add chopped vegetables and cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked turkey, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Crockpot Turkey and Dumplings
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Turkey and Dumplings! This hearty recipe combines tender turkey breast with fluffy homemade dumplings, all cooked to perfection in the slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of water
– 2 tbsp of butter
– 2 cups of flour
– 2 tsp of baking powder
– 1/2 tsp of salt
– 1/4 tsp of black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. In the Crockpot, combine turkey breast, chicken broth, water, and butter.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the dumplings. Whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Gradually add beaten eggs to the dry mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour dumpling mixture over turkey and continue cooking for 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot with additional chicken broth if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
BBQ Pulled Turkey Sandwiches
A twist on traditional pulled pork sandwiches, these BBQ Pulled Turkey Sandwiches are a delicious and unique option for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or slow cooker, combine turkey breast, BBQ sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until the turkey is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Using two forks, pull the turkey apart into shreds.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast until lightly browned.
6. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled turkey onto the buns, topping with coleslaw, pickles, and any other desired toppings.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Turkey and Sweet Potato Curry
This recipe combines the richness of turkey with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a warm and aromatic curry sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together turkey, sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 25-30 minutes or until the turkey is cooked through and sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Remove from oven and stir in coconut milk.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Leftover Turkey Pot Pie Filling
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious pot pie filling that’s perfect for using up holiday leftovers. This recipe is a great way to reuse and recycle, reducing food waste and saving time in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine turkey, mixed vegetables, flour, and thyme.
2. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes or until the filling has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in melted butter or margarine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Corn Chowder
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. Rich flavors from turkey, corn, and spices come together to create a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the turkey and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, chicken broth, milk or cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Enchilada Soup
Slow Cooker Turkey Enchilada Soup Recipe
Warm up with this comforting, flavorful soup that combines the richness of turkey with the bold flavors of enchiladas.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 packet (1 oz) enchilada sauce mix
- 8 oz cooked pasta (such as penne or elbow macaroni)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cream or sour cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Place the turkey, onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, and enchilada sauce mix in a slow cooker. Stir until well combined.
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir until smooth.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot, topped with cream or sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff
A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic dish, this Turkey and Mushroom Stroganoff combines the richness of turkey with the earthy taste of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook turkey and mushrooms in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in sour cream and cook an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Herbed Turkey and Lentil Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the tender taste of turkey with the nutty goodness of lentils, all wrapped up in a fragrant blend of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the turkey pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the lentils, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Turkey and Black Bean Burrito Filling
This flavorful filling combines tender turkey breast with black beans, onions, and spices, perfect for wrapping up in a tortilla or using as a topping for tacos or salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked black beans and water to the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Turkey and Spinach Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, savory, and healthy dish that combines the flavors of turkey, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced turkey and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, turkey-spinach mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey with the nutty goodness of quinoa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked quinoa, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir until combined.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey-quinoa mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Mushroom Risotto
Slow Cooker Turkey and Wild Mushroom Risotto Recipe
A hearty and comforting slow-cooked risotto recipe that combines the flavors of turkey, wild mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine turkey breast, mushrooms, broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, and Arborio rice.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in white wine (if using) and butter until melted.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turkey and White Bean Cassoulet
This French-inspired casserole combines the flavors of turkey, white beans, and rich broth for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, sauté turkey, garlic, onion, and carrot in a little oil until browned. Add broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
3. Stir in cannellini beans and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Turkey and Cabbage Soup
This classic soup recipe combines the tender flavors of turkey and cabbage with aromatic spices, making it a perfect meal for a chilly day. With its rich broth and chunky texture, this soup is sure to warm your belly and soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes.
Turkey and Broccoli Alfredo
A classic comfort food dish gets a protein-packed twist with the addition of turkey and broccoli. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add turkey and broccoli; cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth and combined.
4. Add cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to combine with turkey-broccoli mixture.
5. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious array of crockpot recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From comforting soups and stews to international-inspired dishes, these 20 recipes will breathe new life into your holiday meal. Try making creamy wild rice soup, slow cooker tetrazzini, or BBQ pulled turkey sandwiches. You’ll also find unique twists on classic dishes like turkey and dumplings, sweet potato curry, and quinoa-stuffed peppers. With minimal prep time and effortless cooking, these recipes are sure to become a staple in your household.