5 Leftover Turkey Pasta Dishes You Must Try This Season

Are you still staring into the depths of your refrigerator at the leftovers from your Thanksgiving turkey, wondering what culinary magic you can conjure to give them a new lease on life? Fear not, because this season, we're transforming that humble turkey into something extraordinary with 5 Leftover Turkey Pasta Dishes you absolutely must try. These dishes will turn your leftover turkey into something as luxurious as it is practical.

🍽️ Creamy Turkey Alfredo 🍽️

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=creamy+turkey+alfredo" alt="Creamy Turkey Alfredo"> </div>

After Thanksgiving, nothing feels more comforting than a creamy pasta dish, and this creamy Turkey Alfredo is a winner. This dish blends the richness of Alfredo sauce with the savory essence of turkey, creating a luxurious yet simple meal that's perfect for a post-holiday comfort feast.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine works great)
• 1 cup of leftover turkey, chopped
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Steps

1. Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling the pasta in salted water until it's al dente.

2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.

3. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

4. Cheese and Turkey: Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts, then add the chopped turkey, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine: Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated.

6. Serve: Garnish with parsley and a little more cheese if you're feeling indulgent.

<p class="pro-note">🧑‍🍳 Note: For an extra indulgent touch, add a splash of white wine to the sauce when cooking the garlic.</p>

🍝 Turkey and Spinach Pesto Penne 🍝

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=turkey+and+spinach+pesto+penne" alt="Turkey and Spinach Pesto Penne"> </div>

Here's a dish that's both vibrant and healthy. Pesto is a powerhouse of flavor, and when combined with turkey and spinach, you get a nutritious meal that's also delightfully tasty.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 cups chopped leftover turkey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Make the Pesto: Blend spinach, basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil in a food processor until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Pasta Time: Cook penne until al dente.

3. Combine: Mix the drained pasta with pesto and turkey. If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a bit of pasta water.

4. Garnish: Serve with additional Parmesan or a sprinkle of pine nuts for texture.

<p class="pro-note">🍽️ Note: Pesto freezes well, so you can make extra for future dishes.</p>

🍛 Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole 🍛

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=turkey+tetrazzini+casserole" alt="Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole"> </div>

The casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and this Turkey Tetrazzini is the epitome of cozy comfort. It’s rich, creamy, and filled with that holiday turkey goodness.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked turkey, cubed
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Steps

1. Cook the Spaghetti: Boil spaghetti until it’s tender but still firm.

2. Mix: In a large bowl, combine the cooked spaghetti, turkey, soup, milk, cheeses, peas, and seasonings.

3. Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

4. Serve: Enjoy the cozy warmth of this classic dish.

<p class="pro-note">🍴 Note: Adding a can of pimientos gives an extra festive touch to this casserole.</p>

🌿 Turkey, Mushroom, and Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine 🌿

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=turkey+mushroom+and+sun-dried+tomato+fettuccine" alt="Turkey, Mushroom, and Sun-Dried Tomato Fettuccine"> </div>

For a dish that’s bursting with savory flavors, this fettuccine is your go-to. The combination of mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes with turkey creates a sophisticated yet hearty pasta.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine
• 2 cups turkey, sliced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained, and chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. Cook Fettuccine: Cook pasta to al dente in salted water.

2. Sauté: In a skillet, sauté mushrooms with garlic, then add sun-dried tomatoes.

3. Sauce: Stir in cream and broth, letting it simmer until thickened.

4. Add Turkey: Add turkey to warm through.

5. Combine: Toss the pasta with the sauce, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle with Parmesan.

6. Garnish: Top with fresh basil and serve.

<p class="pro-note">🍅 Note: Sun-dried tomatoes impart a deep, complex flavor that’s perfect with the mild taste of turkey.</p>

🌼 Spaghetti with Turkey and Autumn Veggies 🌼

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=spaghetti+with+turkey+and+autumn+veggies" alt="Spaghetti with Turkey and Autumn Veggies"> </div>

Here’s a dish that celebrates the fall season with an array of colorful, seasonal veggies that pair perfectly with your leftover turkey.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1 butternut squash, cubed
• 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
• 1 large apple, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Fresh sage leaves
• Salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon

Steps

1. Roast Veggies: Toss squash, Brussels sprouts, and apples with olive oil, sage, salt, pepper, and cinnamon, then roast at 400°F until tender.

2. Cook Spaghetti: Boil the pasta to al dente.

3. Combine: Mix the cooked pasta with roasted veggies, shredded turkey, and Parmesan. If needed, add some of the pasta water for moisture.

4. Serve: Dish out your spaghetti, garnishing with extra Parmesan and sage if desired.

With these 5 dishes, your leftover turkey will take on new flavors, textures, and memories. Whether you're seeking comfort food or something with a bit of gourmet flair, there's something here for every post-Thanksgiving appetite. Enjoy the journey of turning what remains into something remarkable this season.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can these recipes be made with fresh turkey instead of leftovers?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, absolutely. If you have fresh turkey, simply cook it the same way you would for the original meal, then incorporate it into these dishes. The seasoning of the turkey might differ slightly, but the basic steps remain the same.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What can I substitute for cream in these pasta recipes?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>You can use Greek yogurt or a lighter option like half-and-half. For vegan options, coconut cream or cashew cream can be excellent substitutes.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there any gluten-free pasta alternatives I can use?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! Try gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or legumes like chickpea or lentil pasta. These options will maintain the integrity of the dish while being suitable for a gluten-free diet.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I make these dishes ahead of time?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, these pasta dishes can be made ahead. Prepare the sauce and turkey components separately, then combine just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming too soft or the dish from drying out. Refrigerate up to 2 days.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How long can I keep leftover turkey in the fridge?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Leftover turkey can be safely stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to preserve its quality and freshness.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>