What To Do With Your Thanksgiving Leftovers
While almost everyone claims that Thanksgiving leftovers are one of the "best" parts of the meal (and probably why people cook twice as much turkey as they actually need), it can get a little old making the same turkey sandwiches year after year.
Unless you're going to go for the legendary "moist maker" that debuted in a Thanksgiving special of the show Friends, you're probably looking for a little variety in your leftover creations.
Instead of just recreating your Turkey Day dinner between two slices of bread — though there's really nothing wrong with that — try making one of these amped-up sandwiches below. You will probably have to adjust the seasonings and maybe even some of the ingredients depending on how you made your bird, but as long as you taste as you go, then you should be fine.
Not looking for a sandwich? Try the soup, salad, or curry options to mix it up. And if you're looking for ways to entertain guests after turkey day, check out these great party ideas.
Enjoy!
Sandwiches
The Deen Brother's Perfect Turkey Sandwich
No Deen-family recipe would be complete without some mayonnaise and this one is made with a lemony-basil variation that adds just the right amount of flavor to this pressed sandwich.
Pulled Turkey Sandwiches with BBQ Sauce
Cooking Channel's Nadia G. serves up this take on a hot chicken sandwich with plenty of sauce...
This chef turns his leftover turkey into a fantastic BLT that's made with applewood-smoked bacon, plenty of mayonnaise, and English muffins.
Southern chef David Guas sandwiches his turkey between two pieces of French bread with homemade whipped honey butter, stuffing, and a slice of Gouda.
Leftover Turkey Croque Monsieur Sandwich
Swap the ham in this French sandwich for leftover turkey instead.
Soups and Other Leftover Alternatives
Spicy Swiss Potato Soup with Turkey
Too much turkey and mashed potatoes? No problem. Chef Jimmy Bradley uses them both up in this creamy and comforting soup.
A simple soup that uses even the turkey bones.
The typical Black Friday dinner for one of The Daily Meal's editors.
Turkey works well with the spices found in West Indian curry blends, as another TDM editor found out.
Made too many mashed potatoes and have no clue what to do with them? Try frying them up for some easy-to-snack-on croquettes.
No matter what vegetables you have leftover, try throwing them in with some fresh lettuce and any herbs you have on hand for a refreshing salad.
For more turkey talk, visit The Daily Meal's Guide to Thanksgiving!