12 + Creative Ways to Use Leftover Turkey in Gluten-Free Recipes
The holidays are over, and you’ve probably have some leftover turkey in your fridge. One of the best things about turkey is its versatility, making it perfect for various recipes. Here are 12 creative ways to transform leftover turkey into gluten-free dishes that satisfy any craving—whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, a nutritious meal, or something quick and easy. Leftover turkey is a lean protein and can be easily incorporated into a wide range of gluten-free meals.
Delicious Gluten-Free Ways to Use Leftover Turkey
You can add turkey to soups, stews, casseroles, stir-fries, fried rice, salads, and more. It’s a simple and tasty way to incorporate lean protein into your meals. Here are some gluten-free recipe ideas to help you make the most of your turkey leftovers and turn them into something delicious!
Essential Tips for Storing, Reheating, and Using Leftover Turkey
Leftover turkey can be transformed into a variety of delicious and creative dishes beyond the typical turkey sandwich. Here are a few things to know about using leftover turkey in recipes:
- Is it safe to eat leftover turkey?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to eat leftover turkey as long as it has been properly cooked and stored. - Does turkey taste good the next day?
It depends. Some people find turkey even more flavorful the next day, while others think it can be dry and less tasty. To help with moisture and flavor, try reheating turkey in broth or gravy. - Can you freeze leftover turkey?
Yes, you can freeze leftover turkey. Wrap the turkey pieces in cling wrap, place them in freezer bags, and store in the freezer for up to four months. To use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding to your favorite recipes. - How long will leftover turkey keep?
Leftover turkey will keep for up to three days in the fridge. After that, it should be frozen and used within four months. When reheating, ensure the turkey is heated through and piping hot before eating. - How to keep leftover turkey moist and tender?
To ensure your leftover turkey stays moist, let it rest for 30 minutes after cooking before carving or shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it flavorful and tender. - How to reheat leftover turkey?
There are several ways to reheat turkey:- In a pan: Slice the turkey, add a few spoons of broth, cover, and reheat on low heat.
- In soups or stews: Shred the turkey and add it to a soup or stew to warm through.
- In a stir-fry: For cubed turkey, heat it in a hot pan with butter or oil. Stir-fry until heated through, and add veggies and cooked rice for a quick, delicious meal.
12 Creative Ways to Use Leftover Turkey in Gluten-Free Recipes
If you’re tired of the same old turkey sandwich, try one of these recipes instead! These dishes will breathe new life into your leftovers, and your family will love the delicious variety.
Turkey And Chickpea Moroccan Stew
Forget the turkey sandwiches and try something different with this Turkey and Chickpea Moroccan Stew—a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines leftover turkey, chickpeas, vegetables, and bold Moroccan spices.
Turkey pot pie:
This classic comfort food tastes even better with leftover turkey. Simply swap out the chicken for turkey cubes in this Gluten-Free Skillet Chicken Pot Pie recipe for a delicious twist!
Gluten-Free Turkey tacos:
A fun way to transform leftover turkey is by making tacos! Swap the pork for shredded leftover turkey in this Gluten-Free Crispy Carnitas Tacos recipe for a wholesome twist. Top with your favorite taco fixings—like fresh salsa, avocado, and cilantro—for a quick and satisfying meal the whole family will love.
Creamy Turkey and Mushroom Soup:
A hearty soup is always a comforting meal, and one made with leftover turkey is no exception. Try this our Creamy Chicken, Mushroom Soup recipe—simply replace the chicken with shredded leftover turkey and reduce the cooking time to just 15 minutes. The turkey adds rich flavor while keeping the soup quick and easy to prepare, making it the perfect dish for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Turkey salad: A turkey salad is a great way to use up leftover turkey meat. To make the salad, mix cubed turkey, cabbage, celery, grapes, cilantro, your favorite gluten free dressing and seasonings to taste. Serve on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich for a quick meal. Add some diced apples or sriracha sauce for an extra flavorful kick.
Turkey sandwich: The classic sandwich gets a Thanksgiving twist with the addition of leftover turkey. Using this nutritious Gluten-Free Multi-Seed Oat Sandwich Bread, pile on the meat and add any other desired toppings and gravy for a satisfying meal any time of day.
Or use this Gluten-Free Homemade Italian Bread and add homemade walnut pesto, tomatoes, onions and lettuce, for an Italian twist.
Turkey Enchilada Casserole:
Convert Rotisserie Chicken Enchilada Casserole to a turkey version. Swap the chicken for turkey meat, and you’ve got a delicious, hearty meal. It’s an ideal weeknight dinner, especially when you’re short on time—you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to eat. A fuss-free option for busy nights.
Turkey wraps: A healthy and easy way to use leftover turkey is to make gluten-free wraps. Fill a gluten free wrap or gluten free tortilla with shredded turkey, lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce or dressing. Then, wrap it up tight and enjoy!
Leftover Turkey Singapore Style Noodles:
Who doesn’t love a delicious noodle dish? This gluten-free noodle recipe is a simple and flavorful way to incorporate leftover turkey. With snow peas, mushrooms, bell peppers, carrots, rice vermicelli, and a blend of spices, it transforms your turkey leftovers into an Asian-inspired satisfying meal.
Turkey Fried Rice:
If you’re looking for an easy, delicious, and budget-friendly meal, this take-out style fried rice is a great way to use up leftover turkey. Just swap the pork for turkey, and you’ll have a gluten-free meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Add a side of leftover-veggies for a wholesome meal.
Cheesy Buffalo Turkey Acorn Squash Bowls:
Boost the nutrition and flavor of your meal with Turkey Acorn Squash Bowls! This hearty dish features roasted acorn squash filled with a flavorful buffalo-style turkey stuffing, topped with gooey cheese. It’s a deliciously satisfying meal that’s packed with protein and the perfect balance of spicy and cheesy goodness.
One-Pot Leftover Turkey Stroganoff:
This all-time favorite noodles dish is a delicious way to use up turkey leftovers. In just 30 minutes, caramelized onions, turkey chunks, mushrooms and herbs simmer in a creamy sauce with gluten-free noodles. While turkey sandwiches are great, this creamy stroganoff is a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy your leftovers!
Spanish Rice with leftover Turkey
Transform this flavorful Spanish rice recipe by adding lean turkey for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Packed with bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, and bold seasonings, it’s a delicious, protein-packed dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Just shred the leftover turkey and toss it with the rice for wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meal!
Gluten-Free Gravy Made Without Drippings
If you’re short on gravy, try our easy plant-based Gluten-Free Gravy Without Drippings recipe—it’s quicker than you think! And if you have extra gravy, pour it over our Gluten-Free Cheesy Mashed Potato Biscuits for a delicious twist.
Ultimately you could always eat leftover turkey with gravy and mashed potatoes. Or, load up Gluten Free Burger Buns with turkey, gravy and some cranberry sauce. YUM!
Do you have leftover mashed potatoes? These Crispy, Tasty Gluten-Free Potato Sesame Cheese Sticks are a perfect way to use up leftover mashed potatoes! Made with just four simple ingredients—mashed potatoes, cheese, sesame seeds, and gluten-free flour—they’re quick to prepare and irresistibly crispy. Feel free to get creative by adding your favorite herbs or spices, though the basic seasoning is delicious on its own
Enjoy!
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Many thanks!
Kristina xx