I Tested 13 Turkey Recipes So You Don’t Have To

Testing turkey recipes sounds fun until you realize it means a lot of trial, error, and cleanup. That’s why narrowing it down to 13 tried options saves everyone the trouble and the mess. These recipes cut straight to what works so there’s no guesswork or stress about ending up with something dry and disappointing.

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced, seasoned, roasted turkey breast on a blue plate.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cooking in an air fryer really changes up how turkey can turn out. Air Fryer Turkey Breast is quick, has a nice outer texture, and keeps things simple for a busy day. It’s ideal if you don’t need a whole bird but still want the turkey vibe. The air fryer also keeps it less of a hassle to clean up afterward.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

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.
Turkey Pot Pie. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Leftovers don’t have to be boring when a comforting dish like Turkey Pot Pie comes together. It’s all about layering turkey with other ingredients and sealing it under the flakiest crust. This dish transforms any extra turkey into a whole new meal. It’s a hearty way to stretch your Thanksgiving leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie

Roasted Turkey

A roasted turkey garnished with herbs, boasting a golden brown, crispy skin, presented on a gleaming glass platter.
Roasted Turkey. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s nothing like a classic Roasted Turkey to anchor a table during the holiday season or anytime you want to feed a group. This approach is all about getting tender, juicy meat with a nicely browned finish. It’s reliable and works well when you’re food prepping or hosting. You get the satisfaction of carving at the table, too.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey

Turkey Sliders

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

Perfect for gatherings or quick meals, Turkey Sliders give you mini-sized sandwiches that pack in flavor. They’re a great option when you want something finger-friendly and customizable. Their small size makes them ideal for serving many people in an easy, shareable way. Plus, they bring variety into everyday turkey uses.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Turkey Gravy

Close-up of a bowl filled with creamy turkey gravy soup, featuring small bubbles and herbs on the surface. The bowl has a reddish-brown rim.
Turkey Gravy. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For topping off a holiday spread or just elevating a turkey dish, Turkey Gravy adds the finishing touch. This not only complements turkey meat but also works well on mashed sides. It balances out the meal and ties everything together. Having a good gravy can turn a basic turkey dinner into something complete.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Gravy

Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Close-up of sliced roasted chicken with crispy skin, garnished with herbs.
Perfect Spatchcock Turkey. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When time matters and you still want something big on flavor, Perfect Spatchcock Turkey is worth considering. Flattening the bird ensures even cooking while shortening the total time needed in the oven. It’s also great for getting more crispy edges without worrying about overcooking the rest.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Turkey Meatballs

Close-up of meatballs covered in gravy, topped with chopped parsley, resting on mashed potatoes.
Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you need turkey worked into an everyday option, Turkey Meatballs are a good pick. They fit perfectly in your usual rotation and go with pasta, rice, or even sandwiches. Using turkey offers a slightly different option compared to beef but still keeps everything just as flexible. These work as a quick meal solution or a party appetizer.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Meatballs

Turkey Soup

A bowl of chicken soup with rice, carrots, celery, herbs, and pepper sprinkled on top.
Turkey Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When the weather cools or you have extra turkey on hand, Turkey Soup makes a lot of sense. It’s a great way to use what you have while also creating something warm and filling. This one feels like comfort in a bowl, and it’s simple enough to make for any weeknight. Use this dish if you enjoy meals served in a bowl with a spoon.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Soup

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Close-up of sliced glazed turkey breast with visible seasoning.
Maple Glazed Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding some sweetness to your turkey, Maple Glazed Turkey Breast offers a subtle twist on the usual. It’s a straightforward way to add extra warmth and depth to a smaller turkey portion. You get something that’s a little different without a ton of extra effort. Great for mixing it up while staying true to the basics.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

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.
Turkey Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Great for easy oven meals, Turkey Casserole layers leftover turkey into something filling and sharable. The mix of textures and ingredients ensures everything comes together in one convenient dish. Using a casserole dish lets you make it ahead or serve a crowd. It’s a practical option that doesn’t skip on flavor variety.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Casserole

Turkey Chili

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

Turning turkey into Turkey Chili changes how you think about chili nights. It keeps the thick, hearty bowl feel while swapping out other proteins for turkey. This is perfect if you’re looking to switch things up while staying in a comfort zone. It’s a dependable dish that can be adjusted for any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili

Turkey Meatloaf

Close-up view of sliced turkey meatloaf with a browned crust on top, revealing a moist and textured interior. The meatloaf appears to contain pieces of onions and possibly sun-dried tomatoes.
Turkey Meatloaf. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you’re a fan of meatloaf, swapping in Turkey Meatloaf can be a refreshing twist on the classic. The texture and flavor fit into the expected form, making it easier to try something new. Turkey works well in this format and pairs up with all the usual sides.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Meatloaf

Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Mexican taco salad cups on a plate.
Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!). Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Making something fun and individual-sized, Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!) grabs attention at any table. You pack each cup with flavor, making them customizable for everyone eating. Using cups makes it easy to serve and try variations on a classic taco experience.
Get the Recipe: Best Taco Salad Cups Recipe (Super Easy!)

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *