15+ Turkey Recipes including Thanksgiving Mains, Repurposed Leftovers, & Everyday Dinners Using Turkey This collection is your go-to source for turkey recipes. Whether you’re roasting a whole bird for Thanksgiving or Christmas, preparing a turkey breast for a small gathering, or cooking turkey in a slow cooker, these recipes are simple, family-friendly, and delicious.
Tips and Tricks for Making the Best Turkey Recipes
- Thawing takes time. Allow about one day in the refrigerator for every 5 pounds of turkey, and give yourself an extra day if possible. For example, don’t wait until the day before the holiday to thaw a 20-pound bird.
- Thaw properly. Place the turkey in a pan or on a baking sheet while thawing to catch any drips and avoid contaminating other foods in the fridge.
- Use the right pan. A sturdy roasting pan or sheet pan with raised edges collects juices and makes cleanup easier whether you roast a whole turkey or a smaller breast.
- Always preheat the oven. For crisp skin and even cooking, preheat your oven. Many turkey recipes roast between 375–425°F, so the oven should be hot before the bird goes in.
- Store leftovers safely. Cooked turkey keeps for up to 5 days in the refrigerator or about 3 months in the freezer. Repurpose leftovers in soups, casseroles, sandwiches, and more for quick meals later in the week.
The Best Easy Turkey Recipes
Foolproof Oven Roasted Turkey
A juicy, herb-roasted turkey that stays moist without brining, basting, or fuss. Ideal for Thanksgiving and holiday gatherings.
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Oven Roasted Citrus Turkey
A flavorful roast stuffed with aromatics and coated in citrus-herb butter for moist, bright tasting turkey.
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Slow Cooker Turkey Tenderloin
A set-it-and-forget-it tenderloin that’s perfect for smaller holiday meals or an easy weeknight dinner.
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Baked Turkey Breast
Perfect when you don’t need a whole bird—juicy meat with crispy skin and big flavor.
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Slow Cooker Turkey Breast
A hands-off method that yields juicy turkey and easy drippings for gravy.
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Ways to Use Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey
Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini
Comforting casserole with spaghetti, creamy sauce, veggies, cheese, and leftover turkey.
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Easy Turkey Pot Pie
Hearty, creamy pot pie that turns leftover turkey into a cozy weeknight meal.
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Turkey and Cheese Sliders
Sweet and savory sliders with turkey, Swiss, cranberry sauce, and soft rolls—great for parties.
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Creamy Turkey Wild Rice Soup
Rich, hearty soup with wild rice and turkey—one-pot comfort food that’s ready in about an hour.
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Leftover Turkey Noodle Soup
A quick, nourishing twist on the classic that’s ready in about 30 minutes.
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Leftover Turkey Crescent Rolls
A go-to favorite for using turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy in quick roll-ups.
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Thanksgiving Crunchwrap
A fun way to fold and toast all your leftovers inside a tortilla and serve with gravy.
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Ground and Sliced Turkey Recipes
Ground Turkey Stir-Fry
Versatile, healthy stir-fry ready in about 25 minutes—great for using leftover vegetables.
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Healthy Turkey Chili
A flavorful one-pot chili that cooks in 30 minutes and freezes well for later meals.
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Turkey Basil Pasta Salad
A refreshing cold pasta salad that balances turkey with crisp vegetables and fresh basil.
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Monte Cristo Casserole
All the flavors of a Monte Cristo sandwich transformed into a make-ahead breakfast or brunch casserole.
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