Turkey goes far beyond the holiday table. These recipes show just how versatile it can be, from slow-cooked mains to creative leftovers and quick weeknight meals. Whether you’re roasting a whole breast, shaping juicy burgers, or using ground turkey in meatballs and stuffed vegetables, there’s no shortage of ways to use this protein. The list also includes bold flavors like buffalo, BBQ, and coconut curry, plus cozy spins like hand pies and hot sandwiches. These dishes make turkey anything but basic.
Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
This classic roast delivers juicy slices with crisp skin and simple seasoning. It’s a solid choice for smaller gatherings or easy carving. Leftovers work well in sandwiches or wraps. Easy to season to your taste.
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Leftover Turkey Hand Pies with Cranberry and Boursin
Shredded turkey, cranberry sauce, and creamy Boursin cheese get tucked into flaky pastry. These hand pies bake until golden and are great hot or cold. A fun way to refresh leftovers. Portable and freezer-friendly.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Hand Pies with Cranberry and Boursin
Roast Turkey Recipe
A classic whole roast with crispy skin and moist, flavorful meat. Season with butter, herbs, and garlic for maximum impact. Serve with your favorite sides or carve up for sandwiches. A holiday or anytime centerpiece.
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Jalapeno Turkey Burgers
Ground turkey gets mixed with chopped jalapeños and seasonings for a spicy twist. Grill or pan-sear until juicy inside. Top with cheese or a creamy sauce to balance the heat. Bold, simple, and satisfying.
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Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast
This set-it-and-forget-it recipe gives you tender turkey with minimal effort. Add broth and herbs, and let it cook until sliceable. Great for meal prep or sandwiches. It stays juicy without needing an oven.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast
Asian Turkey Burger Salad
Seasoned ground turkey patties sit on a bed of crunchy greens with a sesame dressing. Add cucumber, carrot, and scallions for texture. A lighter way to enjoy a burger vibe. Fresh, fast, and full of flavor.
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Easy to Make Crispy Turkey Tacos
Ground turkey is cooked with spices and tucked into crisped taco shells. Top with shredded lettuce, cheese, and salsa. It’s a quick dinner that delivers on crunch. Great for customizing with whatever’s in the fridge.
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Blueberry Balsamic BBQ Turkey Legs
Turkey legs roast in a sticky glaze of blueberries and balsamic vinegar. The sauce caramelizes as it cooks, adding sweet and tangy flavor. Serve with sides or shred the meat for sandwiches. Unexpected and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Balsamic BBQ Turkey Legs
Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast
A sweet-savory brine made from apple cider gives this slow-cooked breast a gentle tang. It stays juicy and shreds easily. Pairs well with root veggies or slaw. Great for fall dinners or sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Apple Cider Brined Turkey Breast
Creamy Turkey Garlic Stuffed Mushrooms
Chopped turkey, cream cheese, and garlic fill mushroom caps and bake until golden. These are great as appetizers or low-carb bites. The turkey adds heartiness without overpowering the filling. Bite-sized and rich.
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Instant Pot Turkey Chili
Ground turkey, beans, tomatoes, and spices come together in this quick-cooking chili made in the Instant Pot. The pressure cooking locks in flavor and gives it that slow-simmered taste in a fraction of the time. It’s hearty, thick, and easy to adjust depending on how spicy you like it.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Turkey Chili
Cranberry Turkey Wraps
Leftover turkey gets rolled up with cranberry sauce, greens, and a creamy spread in a tortilla. It’s tangy, fresh, and quick to make. A great use for fridge odds and ends. Works well warm or cold.
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How to Make Barbeque Turkey Sliders
Shredded turkey is tossed in BBQ sauce and piled onto small buns with slaw or pickles. These sliders are great for parties or easy dinners. Toast the buns for extra texture. Sweet, smoky, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: How to Make Barbeque Turkey Sliders
Coconut Curry Thai Turkey Meatballs
Ground turkey mixes with Thai-inspired spices and simmers in coconut curry sauce. The meatballs stay tender and soak up the flavor. Serve with rice or noodles. Cozy, spicy, and just a little sweet.
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Asian Inspired Turkey Burgers
Soy sauce, ginger, and scallions season these juicy turkey patties. They’re grilled or pan-cooked and topped with slaw or sriracha mayo. A fresh take that doesn’t need a bun. Fast and flavorful.
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Cheddar Stuffed Turkey Meatballs
These meatballs are filled with a cube of cheddar that melts as they bake. They’re savory, cheesy, and satisfying without sauce. Serve on their own or over pasta. Fun to make and eat.
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Honey Sriracha Turkey Meatballs (Crockpot)
These slow-cooked meatballs simmer in a sticky sweet-spicy sauce. They hold their shape and absorb every drop of flavor. Serve with rice, noodles, or as appetizers. Great for game day or casual meals.
Get the Recipe: Honey Sriracha Turkey Meatballs (Crockpot)
Buffalo Turkey Cauliflower Skillet
Ground turkey and roasted cauliflower get tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy, filling skillet dish. Add ranch or blue cheese for balance. It’s simple, low-carb, and packed with flavor. One pan, full meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Turkey Cauliflower Skillet
Hot Turkey Sandwich
Thick slices of turkey get layered on bread with gravy poured over the top. Mashed potatoes or stuffing on the side make it even better. It’s warm, comforting, and uses up leftovers. A classic that always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Hot Turkey Sandwich
