Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a wonderful way to turn your turkey leftovers into a comforting and quick meal. It combines tender turkey pieces with pasta, a creamy sauce, and…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a wonderful way to turn your turkey leftovers into a comforting and quick meal. It combines tender turkey pieces with pasta, a creamy sauce, and a few simple ingredients you probably have on hand. This dish is all about making the most of those flavorful turkey bits while adding a cozy, creamy touch that feels both familiar and fresh.
I love making this pasta when I’m tired of plain turkey sandwiches but don’t want to waste all that great meat. It’s super easy to whip up—just toss everything into a pan, add some cream or cheese, and voilà! The sauce clings to the noodles and turkey, making every bite smooth and satisfying. Sometimes I throw in some frozen peas or sautéed mushrooms just to brighten it up and add a little variety.
My favorite way to serve this is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little extra grated cheese on top. It feels like a cozy, homemade meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch. If you’ve got leftover turkey sitting in the fridge, give this recipe a try—it’s a great way to warm up and enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving all over again without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne holds sauce well, but you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even macaroni based on what you have. Whole wheat pasta adds fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Turkey: Leftover turkey breast works best since it’s lean and easy to shred. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken or even rotisserie chicken are great substitutes.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce creamy and rich. For a lighter option, try half and half or a mix of milk and cream cheese. Non-dairy milks like cashew cream can also work.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds savory depth. Pecorino Romano or Asiago are good alternatives. Nutritional yeast offers a vegan-friendly cheesy taste.
Frozen Peas: They add sweetness and color. If peas aren’t your thing, chopped broccoli or spinach works well too.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Without It Breaking?
Creating a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to pasta and turkey is key. Here’s what helps:
- Cook your onions and garlic gently to build flavor without burning.
- Warm the broth and cream together before adding to the pan to prevent curdling.
- Simmer gently, don’t boil hard—high heat can cause the sauce to separate.
- Stir in cheese off the heat to melt it smoothly.
- Mix in the pasta last and toss well so every piece is nicely coated.
Take your time, and the sauce will turn out silky and delicious every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the pasta quickly and evenly.
- Colander – for draining the pasta without hassle.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – perfect for cooking the sauce and mixing everything together.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep your ingredient amounts just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked shredded chicken if you don’t have leftovers; it works just as well with the creamy sauce.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy boost that pairs nicely with the creamy texture.
- Stir in cooked spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for some gentle heat and depth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – to boil the pasta perfectly.
- Colander – for draining the cooked pasta easily.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking the sauce and mixing everything together.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir the ingredients gently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients accurately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the Turkey: Use cooked shredded chicken if you don’t have turkey leftovers—it works just as well.
- Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or kale for more flavor and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a gentle kick and smoky depth.
- Cheese Choices: Try Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese instead of Parmesan for different tastes.
- Herbs: Fresh thyme or basil can be used alongside or instead of parsley for a new twist.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the turkey is fully thawed before adding it to the skillet. Thaw frozen turkey in the fridge overnight for best results, then shred or chop it before using.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the pasta and sauce but stop before adding the turkey and peas. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days, then reheat gently and stir in the turkey and peas just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Can I Serve with Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the creamy richness. Garlic bread on the side is always a crowd-pleaser too!