Turkey feels like that relative you see only during the holidays, which isn’t farfetched since it’s a Thanksgiving staple. But, it definitely deserves more shine throughout the year—especially since you can use the entire bird to create multiple meals throughout the week. This involves roasting it at the beginning of the week (think Sunday dinner) and then saving the leftovers for the next few days. Don’t worry about getting tired of incorporating turkey into dishes as Joel Gamoran, chef and founder of the online cooking platform known as Homemade, shares a few delicious and creative ways to stretch this protein without breaking the bank. Read on for tips on what to do with leftover turkey so you can get the most from this juicy and tender poultry!
The scoop on cooked turkey
Everyone has their tried-and-true method of cooking whole turkey, from spatchcocking the meat to basting it with wine. Gamoran’s preference? Cooking the white and dark meat separately for maximum flavor and tenderness. “I take my Jennie-O turkey, and I do white meat. I cook that kind of slow and low-roasted,” he explains. “Dark meat, I like to braise it, so it’s kind of falling apart. So, I cook them differently. I cut them up into different pieces. It’s amazing.”
Once cooked, the bird is ready to carve and serve to guests—but you’ll likely have some meat leftover. So, store that extra turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days. If you want a longer storage time, keep it in the freezer for three to four months.
What to do with leftover turkey: 5 tasty ideas to try
Transforming that cooked turkey into mouthwatering meals is easier than you think. Start by shredding or chopping the meat into bite-sized pieces and use it to make any of these five hot or cold dishes.
1. Sauces
Adding turkey to a velvety cream or hearty tomato-based sauce creates an extra filling pasta dish. Be sure to include it in the sauce base towards the end of cooking so it gently heats up and doesn’t become dry.
2. Tacos or sandwiches
Turkey meat is the perfect filling option for tacos or sandwiches. Simply reheat it and pile it onto the tortilla or bread with your desired condiments and toppings.
3. Salads
For an easy lunch idea, take a page out of Gamoran’s book and go for a creamy turkey salad with a few yummy twists. “I’m not a big mayo guy, so I slip it out for a little bit of thick Greek yogurt, and it makes it tangy and delicious. It plays really nice with the turkey,” he says. “Maybe a little curry powder in there and a little splash of honey, and it’s perfect.” Enjoy the turkey salad on toast, crackers or vegetables sticks.
4. Soups or stews
Nothing beats a hearty bowl of soup or stew, especially when the weather is less than ideal. Similar to a sauce, it’s best to combine the turkey with the mixture once it’s almost finished.
5. Baked dishes
Whether for your next pot pie or casserole, using turkey in place of chicken or another meat will enhance the final dish’s flavors. Plus, it saves you time as the meat is already cooked.
Bonus: Watch Chef Joel use turkey for these 2 flavorful dishes
If you need recipe inspiration for your leftover turkey, watch this episode of Homemade Live! as Gamoran brings on a special guest, world-renowned chef, TV host and cookbook author Lidia Bastianich, to prepare two dishes: Turkey Breast with Prosciutto, Shallots and Peas and Turkey Cacciatore. They’re easy yet impressive meals to wow your dinner crowd!
