12 Turkey Recipes That Go Way Beyond the Holiday Roast

Turkey isn’t just for big holiday meals. These recipes show just how versatile it can be, from easy weeknight dinners to clever ways to use leftovers. Whether you’re cooking with ground turkey, lean breast meat, or extra slices from Thanksgiving, there’s a dish here to keep things interesting. Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, these ideas are anything but boring.

Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

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This turkey meatloaf uses honey Dijon mustard and a tangy ketchup glaze to add layers of flavor. Cooking it in the air fryer keeps the outside crisp while the inside stays juicy. It’s quick to make and doesn’t sacrifice taste for speed. A smart pick for weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Meatloaf

Stuffed Turkey Breast

Turkey breast is rolled around a seasoned stuffing and roasted until tender. Each slice reveals a spiral of savory filling. It’s a scaled-down version of a classic roast that’s easy to slice and serve. Great for when you’re not feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Turkey Breast

Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

A skillet of shepherds pie topped with piped mashed potatoes and garnished with chopped herbs, placed on a wooden table with a plaid cloth and a bottle of Guinness in the background. — Turkey Shepherd’s Pie. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Put your holiday leftovers to work in this cozy layered dish. Turkey replaces beef in this version, paired with vegetables and topped with mashed potatoes. It’s a warm, filling meal that brings comfort with every bite. A refreshing change from yet another sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

These peppers are filled with seasoned ground turkey, herbs, and grains. Each one is baked until tender with a golden top. They’re colorful, hearty, and easy to customize. A satisfying option for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Ground Turkey Stuffed Peppers

Slow Cooker Lemon Turkey Breast

turkey breast on platter — Slow Cooker Lemon Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Slow cooking keeps this turkey breast juicy, with lemon adding a fresh kick. The meat stays tender without much hands-on effort. It’s a reliable way to cook turkey without turning on the oven. Serve with sides or slice for sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lemon Turkey Breast

Panera Bread Turkey Chili Recipe

This copycat chili is full of turkey, beans, and vegetables in a savory broth. It’s a warming dish with a little kick. The flavors are layered and rich without being heavy. It’s a solid go-to for chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Panera Bread Turkey Chili Recipe

Turkey pinwheels

These bite-sized wraps are fast to assemble and easy to serve. Slices of turkey are layered with fillings and rolled in tortillas. They’re great for lunches, snacks, or party platters. No cooking required.
Get the Recipe: Turkey pinwheels

Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

These meatballs are packed with zucchini, cheddar cheese, and herbs. Simmered in marinara, they’re cheesy and comforting. Each bite has a gooey center and savory outer layer. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs

Turkey Stroganoff

A cast iron skillet filled with creamy chicken and mushroom pasta, garnished with herbs, with a wooden spoon resting inside. — Turkey Stroganoff. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

This creamy dish uses cooked turkey instead of beef for a twist on a classic. It’s rich without being too heavy and comes together quickly. Mushrooms, onions, and sour cream bring depth to the sauce. A reliable way to rework leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Stroganoff

Air Fryer Turkey Legs

Close-up of seasoned, cooked chicken drumsticks on a wooden surface with a knife and striped cloth nearby. — Air Fryer Turkey Legs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These turkey legs crisp up in the air fryer while staying juicy inside. They’re quicker than oven-roasting and perfect for smaller meals. The skin gets golden and crackly. Great for anyone craving fair-style food at home.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Legs

Meal Prep Turkey Meatballs & Zoodles

Ground turkey meatballs are baked and served over zucchini noodles. This meal prep idea keeps things light without sacrificing flavor. The dish is easy to portion out ahead of time. A solid go-to for quick lunches.
Get the Recipe: Meal Prep Turkey Meatballs & Zoodles

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Sliced roasted turkey breast with seasoning on a black cutting board, garnished with rosemary, surrounded by side dishes. — Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Apple cider adds sweetness and depth to this slow-cooked turkey. The brine keeps the meat moist while it gently cooks. It’s a hands-off way to serve something special. Ideal for autumn meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

This one-pan meal blends ground turkey, vegetables, and real cheddar cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and ready in about 30 minutes. Spinach and peppers add extra flavor and color. A grown-up version of a childhood favorite.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese