November 19, 2013

Thanksgiving Leftover Makeover – Turkey Croquettes

After Thanksgiving, the fridge is bursting with leftovers, turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy galore. Sure, you can make another turkey sandwich, but why not turn those leftovers into something extra crispy, cheesy, and totally irresistible?

These Turkey Croquettes are the ultimate post-Thanksgiving comfort food, golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as snacks, lunch, or dinner, these recipes will make your leftovers feel brand new again!

Thanksgiving Leftover Makeover: Delicious Turkey Croquettes Recipes You’ll Love

1. Classic Turkey Croquettes with Creamy Gravy

If you love traditional comfort food, this one’s for you! These croquettes are crispy outside, soft and flavorful inside, and oh-so-satisfying when paired with creamy turkey gravy.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked turkey, finely chopped
1 cup mashed potatoes (or leftover stuffing for a twist)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 small onion, finely diced
2 tbsp butter
1 egg, beaten
¼ cup milk
Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to taste
Flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs (for coating)
Oil for frying

For the Gravy:

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 cup turkey or chicken broth
½ cup milk or cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Sauté the onion in butter until soft.
In a large bowl, mix turkey, mashed potatoes, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, milk, and seasonings.
Shape into small logs or balls.
Roll each in flour, dip in beaten egg, and coat with breadcrumbs.
Fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
For the gravy: Melt butter, whisk in flour, then slowly add broth and milk. Cook until thickened and season to taste.
Serve your croquettes warm, drizzled with that rich, creamy gravy!

Mom tip: These freeze beautifully! Make a big batch and reheat in the oven or air fryer for an easy weeknight meal.

2. Cheesy Turkey and Stuffing Croquettes

If you’ve got leftover stuffing and love a little cheesy goodness, this recipe is going to be your new favorite. Each bite is creamy, crunchy, and loaded with flavor!

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
1 cup leftover stuffing
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 egg, beaten
½ cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs (for coating)
Oil for frying

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine turkey, stuffing, cheese, green onions, egg, and breadcrumbs.
Mix until it comes together — it should be slightly sticky.
Shape into balls or patties, then coat with flour, dip in egg, and roll in breadcrumbs.
Fry until golden brown and crispy.
Serve with cranberry sauce or honey mustard for dipping!

Shortcut: Air-fry them at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes for a lighter version that’s just as crispy.

3. Mashed Potato and Turkey Croquette Bites

Looking for something snackable and fun? These bite-sized croquettes are perfect for a game-day spread or an easy after-school treat. They’re cheesy, crispy, and pair beautifully with just about any dipping sauce.

Ingredients:

1½ cups mashed potatoes
1 cup chopped turkey
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 egg, beaten
¾ cup breadcrumbs
Oil for frying

Instructions:

Mix mashed potatoes, turkey, Parmesan, parsley, and seasonings in a bowl.
Shape into bite-sized balls.
Dip in egg, coat with breadcrumbs, and fry until golden.
You can also bake them at 400°F for 15–20 minutes if you prefer.
Serve with leftover gravy, cranberry sauce, or spicy aioli!

Fun idea: Let the kids help shape the croquettes! It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen (and maybe distract them from the last piece of pumpkin pie).

Who says leftovers have to be boring? These Thanksgiving Turkey Croquettes are a creative, fun, and family-approved way to give your holiday meal a delicious second life. Whether you like them cheesy, classic, or bite-sized, they’re sure to disappear fast!

So before you toss that last bit of turkey or mashed potatoes, give one of these recipes a try. Your taste buds and your wallet, will thank you.