Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a delicious way to transform your holiday leftovers into a fresh, comforting meal. Think tender pieces of turkey mixed with pasta, tossed in a creamy…
Tip: save now, cook later.Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta is a delicious way to transform your holiday leftovers into a fresh, comforting meal. Think tender pieces of turkey mixed with pasta, tossed in a creamy sauce with just the right hint of herbs and maybe a touch of garlic. It’s a simple dish that brings together familiar flavors in a new, satisfying way.
I love making this recipe because it feels like a little celebration all over again, but without the stress. It’s a perfect way to use up turkey and add a touch of warmth and comfort on a chilly day. Plus, it’s quick to pull together, so I can enjoy more time relaxing instead of spending hours in the kitchen.
My favorite way to serve this pasta is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little grated Parmesan on top. It’s great for sharing with family or friends, and it always sparks conversations about the Thanksgiving meal and memories from the day. This pasta is cozy, easy, and just the kind of dish you want when you’re ready for a break from all the holiday leftovers.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne works great because their tube shape holds the sauce nicely. If you don’t have these, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle are good options.
Mushrooms: They add a nice earthy flavor and texture. If you’re not a fan, try sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers instead.
Turkey: Leftover cooked turkey is the star here. If you don’t have turkey, chicken or even cooked tofu can work well.
Heavy Cream & Broth: The cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk, and add more broth so it doesn’t get too thick.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds salty, umami flavor to the sauce. Pecorino Romano or Asiago are good substitutes if you want a sharper taste.
How Can I Make the Sauce Creamy Without It Splitting?
A creamy sauce can sometimes separate if cooked too fast or too hot. Here’s how to keep it smooth:
- Use medium heat when adding cream and broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, not a rapid boil.
- Stir constantly to evenly distribute heat and prevent the cheese from clumping.
- Add grated cheese off the heat or on very low heat so it melts smoothly without curdling.
- If the sauce gets too thick, thin it with a splash of broth or reserved pasta water.
Following these steps helps you achieve a silky, delicious sauce that clings perfectly to every pasta piece.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling pasta; make sure it’s big enough so pasta cooks evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet or sauté pan – you’ll cook mushrooms, turkey, and sauce here; a wide pan helps everything mix well.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – perfect for stirring without scratching your pan.
- Colander – to drain the pasta quickly and easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep ingredients balanced and the sauce flavorful.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mushrooms for roasted butternut squash for a sweeter, autumnal touch—great if you want a veggie twist.
- Use leftover ham instead of turkey for a smoky, salty flavor that pairs well with creamy sauce.
- Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a little heat if you like a spicy kick.
- Stir in fresh spinach right at the end for color, nutrition, and a mild fresh flavor.
Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked leftover turkey, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or turkey broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. It includes time to boil and drain the pasta, sauté mushrooms and garlic, heat leftover turkey, and make a creamy sauce. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight meal using your Thanksgiving leftovers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, following the package directions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté Mushrooms and Garlic:
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and tender. Add minced garlic and sauté an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add Turkey and Seasonings:
Stir in the leftover turkey pieces and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the turkey to warm through and absorb flavors.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring often. Let it cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce.
6. Add Cheese and Finish:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle the fresh parsley over the top.
7. Serve:
Dish out the pasta warm and offer extra Parmesan on the side for sprinkling. Enjoy a cozy, tasty meal that gives your Thanksgiving turkey new life!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure your frozen turkey is completely thawed before adding it to the skillet. Thaw it safely in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Pasta Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the full dish and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, adding a little broth or cream if needed.
What Can I Serve This Pasta With?
This creamy turkey pasta pairs nicely with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty garlic bread for a full, comforting meal.
