11 Leftover Classics That Turn Christmas Extras Into Real Meals

ByMandy

Family gatherings usually lead to a pile of unused ingredients, and 11 leftover classics offer smart ways to use them. Turning Christmas extras into full meals doesn’t take much effort. Most nights, simple recipes fit right in with plans for casual dinners or laid-back lunches. Bringing fresh flavor to leftovers helps round out the holiday season.

A bowl of creamy chicken and vegetable soup with potatoes, corn, carrots, and fresh parsley, served with a metal spoon.
Ham and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Flaky Turkey Pot Pie

A steaming chicken pot pie with a golden-brown crust, partially cut open to reveal chunks of chicken, peas, carrots, and mushrooms. Sprigs of rosemary garnish the top.
Flaky Turkey Pot Pie. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A golden, crispy top reveals a warm, comforting filling in this Flaky Turkey Pot Pie. Every slice feels like home on a chilly evening. I bring it out when everyone’s craving holiday leftovers without feeling like it’s just leftovers. Guests always comment on how each bite tastes better than the last.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Turkey Pot Pie

Savory Turkey Sliders

Close-up of a seasoned bagel sandwich with melted cheese and turkey slider filling, topped with seeds.
Savory Turkey Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bite-sized treats like Savory Turkey Sliders always get the party started at winter gatherings. The combination of juicy turkey and soft rolls keeps people reaching for just one more. Conversation seems to slow down while these are on the table. I find that kids and adults race to see who finishes first.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Sliders

Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini . Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.
Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cold weather feels less daunting with a pan of Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini on the counter. The comforting texture makes it a star of potlucks and snow days alike. People are usually surprised at how quickly it disappears. I save this recipe for weeks when everyone needs a little boost.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini

Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

A close-up of a slice of potato casserole with layers of potatoes, ham, and creamy sauce, garnished with chopped parsley on a plate.
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Melting layers and a golden top make Scalloped Potatoes and Ham a winter tradition in many homes. The aroma alone brings friends to the kitchen. Seconds are almost expected with a dish this comforting. I prepare it for cozy dinners when sharing feels important.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham

Comforting Turkey Casserole

Close-up of a plate of creamy turkey casserole topped with bread crumbs and garnished with fresh basil leaves, reminiscent of a comforting turkey casserole.
Comforting Turkey Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Classic flavors blend smoothly in Comforting Turkey Casserole, making it the perfect fit for chilly evenings. Each bite reminds people of a comforting holiday meal. Guests tend to ask for seconds before the first pan is finished. I often make extra for easy lunches the next day.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Casserole

Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

A close-up of two baked savory stuffing balls with visible chunks of onion, celery, herbs, and bread on a golden tray.
Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Festive meals become more fun with Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls in the mix. The sweet and savory combination sparks plenty of smiles. People often ask what makes each roll so special. I notice the serving plate empties before I get a chance to grab one.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Ham and Cheese Quiche

A close-up of a slice of quiche on a plate, with a fork beside it. The quiche has a golden crust and a creamy, egg-filled interior.
Ham and Cheese Quiche. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chilly mornings perk up with Ham and Cheese Quiche sliced and ready. Every wedge brings creamy filling and golden crust to the breakfast table. Friends delight in having something hearty and flavorful to start the day. I rely on this recipe for brunches and holiday leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Quiche

Turkey Cranberry Sliders

A close-up of a tray of sesame seed slider buns filled with shredded meat, melted cheese, and cranberry sauce.
Turkey Cranberry Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Winter gatherings become memorable once Turkey Cranberry Sliders are served. Tangy cranberry sauce meets savory turkey for the ultimate comfort combo. People gather around, eager to try the first bite. I have to remind myself to save one before they’re all gone.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Cranberry Sliders

Hearty Turkey Chili

A close-up of a pot of chili with beans, avocado slices, red onion, sour cream, and garnished with chopped cilantro.
Hearty Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Steamy bowls of Hearty Turkey Chili warm up even the snowiest days. Deep flavors keep guests coming back for another helping. Friends are always amazed by how filling and comforting it is. I reach for this recipe when winter winds are blowing strongly.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili

Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich

A sandwich made with whole grain bread, sliced turkey, melted cheese, leafy greens, and cranberry sauce sits on newspaper-patterned parchment.
Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Making lunch from leftovers gets exciting with a Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich at hand. Sweet, savory, and crunchy layers trick people into asking for seconds. Conversations usually pause so everyone can enjoy the flavors from the holiday table. I keep this recipe close for quick meals after big celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich

Ham and Potato Soup

A bowl of creamy chicken and vegetable soup with potatoes, corn, carrots, and fresh parsley, served with a metal spoon.
Ham and Potato Soup. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bowls of Ham and Potato Soup always seem to make chilly nights brighter. Creamy texture meets smoky flavor in every spoonful. People smile with each bite, happy to find comfort in the simplest things. I bring out this soup when winter feels extra long.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Soup

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