Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a cozy, comforting dish that takes all those tasty turkey bits leftover from the big feast and turns them into a warm, satisfying meal. Think…
Tip: save now, cook later.Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a cozy, comforting dish that takes all those tasty turkey bits leftover from the big feast and turns them into a warm, satisfying meal. Think tender turkey mixed with your favorite pasta, a creamy sauce, and maybe some herbs or veggies to brighten it up. It’s simple but so full of flavor, a perfect way to avoid waste and enjoy leftovers in a whole new way.
I love making this after Thanksgiving because it feels like a little celebration all over again, but without the stress. You can mix and match whatever you have on hand—add some spinach for color or a sprinkle of cheese for extra yum. I usually toss everything in a pan, stir it together, and let those flavors combine while it warms up. Plus, it’s one of those meals that tastes even better the next day!
When I serve this turkey pasta, I like to keep the sides light—maybe a crisp salad or some roasted veggies—just to balance things out. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone back to the table quickly, hungry after the holiday fun but ready for something easy and tasty. Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta always reminds me of cozy family moments and the joy of making something new from old favorites.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Leftover roasted turkey adds rich flavor and tenderness. White or dark meat works well. If turkey isn’t on hand, cooked chicken is a good substitute.
Pasta: Casarecce or penne hold sauce nicely, but any short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli will do. Pick your favorite shape for fun textures.
Vegetables: Mixed veggies provide color and freshness. Frozen peas, carrots, and green beans are convenient and tasty. Feel free to swap in corn or spinach.
Cream & Cheese: Heavy cream creates a smooth sauce, but half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of extra cheese works if you want a lighter option. Parmesan adds a lovely salty depth, but Romano or Asiago are good alternates.
How Can I Make a Smooth, Creamy Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a creamy sauce starts with cooking a roux, which thickens the sauce. Here’s how:
- After sautéing veggies and turkey, sprinkle flour evenly and stir for 1-2 minutes. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add your broth while whisking or stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens.
- Then add cream and cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Take your time adding liquid and keep stirring—it helps the sauce stay velvety and luscious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta to the perfect al dente texture.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – where you’ll cook the veggies, turkey, and make the creamy sauce all in one place.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring and scraping the pan without scratching it.
- Whisk – essential for mixing the flour into the broth smoothly to avoid lumps in your sauce.
- Colander – helps drain the pasta quickly and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked chicken or leftover ham if you want a different protein with the same cozy feel.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to boost vegetable content and add earthy or fresh flavors.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle spicy kick.
- Use different cheeses like Asiago or mozzarella for a mild twist on the creamy sauce.
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz pasta (such as casarecce, penne, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups leftover cooked turkey, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, green beans)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken or turkey broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh sprigs for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes total: 10 minutes to prepare and cook the pasta, plus 15 minutes to make the sauce and combine everything. It’s a quick and satisfying way to turn your Thanksgiving turkey into a new favorite dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil a big pot of salted water. Add your pasta and cook until it’s just tender but still firm to the bite (al dente), following the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Sauté Vegetables and Turkey:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3–4 minutes until fragrant and soft. Add your mushrooms (if using) and mixed vegetables, stirring for another 4–5 minutes until they’re tender.
Then, mix in the chopped turkey pieces and warm them through for about 2 minutes.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the turkey and veggies, stirring well and cooking the mixture for 1–2 minutes to form a roux that will thicken your sauce. Slowly pour in the chicken or turkey broth a little at a time, stirring constantly to keep it smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
Add the heavy cream and continue to cook until the sauce thickens nicely, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Serve:
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing gently so all the noodles are nicely coated. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme sprigs before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, comforting leftover turkey pasta—the perfect way to savor Thanksgiving flavors all over again!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the frozen turkey fully in the fridge overnight before chopping and adding it to the dish. This ensures even heating and the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the turkey and add more mixed vegetables or substitute with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a hearty, meatless version.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Use a Different Pasta Shape?
Definitely! This recipe works well with most short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, fusilli, or even shells—choose your favorite to mix things up.
