Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a fantastic way to use up those delicious bits of turkey from your holiday feast. This dish combines tender turkey pieces with pasta and usually…
Tip: save now, cook later.Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a fantastic way to use up those delicious bits of turkey from your holiday feast. This dish combines tender turkey pieces with pasta and usually a creamy or tomato-based sauce, making it a comforting and easy meal after all the big celebrations. It’s a great way to bring new life to your leftovers without much fuss.
I love making this pasta when I have turkey taking up space in the fridge. It feels like a fresh and tasty meal, even though it’s made from leftovers. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of cheese on top or toss in some veggies like spinach or mushrooms to give it extra flavor and color. It’s a simple way to make dinner feel special again.
One of my favorite things about this dish is how quickly it comes together. I usually prepare it when I’m tired of sandwiches but still want something hearty and satisfying. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, so if you have friends or family stopping by after Thanksgiving, this pasta is sure to hit the spot and make everyone happy without a lot of extra effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like cavatappi because its twists hold sauce well, but penne, rotini, or shells work great too. Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Leftover Turkey: Any cooked turkey is perfect here. White or dark meat both add nice texture and flavor.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach adds color and nutrients. You can swap in kale or Swiss chard, but cook a bit longer as they’re tougher.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or a mix of cream with milk.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a salty, nutty flavor. Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work if you want a stronger cheese taste.
Dried Cranberries: These sweet bites remind us of Thanksgiving flavors. Raisins or fresh chopped apples can also add a nice touch.
How Do I Make Sure the Cream Sauce is Smooth and Delicious?
The cream sauce holds this dish together, so making it smooth is key.
- Start by gently heating your garlic in butter and olive oil to avoid burning, which can make it bitter.
- Add cream slowly and keep the heat medium-low to prevent it from boiling over or curdling.
- Allow the sauce to simmer for a couple of minutes to thicken but don’t rush; constant gentle stirring helps too.
- Mix in Parmesan off the heat or on very low to keep the sauce smooth and melty instead of grainy.
Take your time here and you’ll end with a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta and turkey!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta evenly and draining easily.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the sauce and combine all ingredients smoothly.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir the sauce without scratching the pan.
- Colander – to drain pasta quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts to get the best flavor balance.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked chicken or leftover ham – both add a tasty twist and work well with creamy sauces.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions – for extra depth and a touch of sweetness.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese – for a gooier, cheesier finish that kids love.
- Stir in chopped fresh herbs like sage or thyme – these brighten the flavors and give a fresh, festive vibe.
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz pasta (cavatappi or your favorite shape)
- 2 cups cooked leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
For Flavor:
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary (or fresh sprigs for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes total. It includes 10-12 minutes to cook the pasta and 8-10 minutes to prepare the sauce, combine, and warm everything up. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal using Thanksgiving leftovers.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat. Add your pasta and cook until just tender (al dente), according to package directions. Drain and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Sauce:
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet on medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until it smells wonderful but isn’t brown. Then add the fresh spinach and cook until it’s just wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Cream and Cheese:
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it just to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken for a couple of minutes while stirring. Once it’s slightly thickened, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and dried rosemary to your taste.
4. Add Turkey, Cranberries, and Pasta:
Mix in the leftover turkey pieces and dried cranberries gently, warming everything through. Then add your drained pasta to the skillet, tossing well so the sauce coats all the pasta evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Give the pasta a taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Transfer to serving bowls or plates, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh rosemary sprigs if you have them. Serve right away while it’s warm and delicious!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the turkey before using it. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or submerge it in cold water sealed in a plastic bag for faster thawing. Pat dry to avoid extra moisture in the pasta.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce and cook pasta, then toss everything together and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce thickens too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating and to prevent drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour to thicken. Just heat gently and stir constantly to avoid curdling.