Leftover Turkey Stew

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stew is a fantastic way to reduce food waste while creating something deeply comforting. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients and develops rich flavors as it simmers. The combination of tender turkey and soft vegetables makes it a complete, nourishing dish that’s perfect for chilly days or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cooked turkey, cubed or shredded
potatoes, peeled and diced
carrots, sliced
celery, chopped
onion, diced
garlic, minced
turkey or chicken broth
tomato paste
olive oil or butter
flour
bay leaf
salt
black pepper
thyme or rosemary

Directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to coat the vegetables, cooking for 1–2 minutes.
Add the tomato paste and mix until combined.
Gradually pour in the broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
Add the potatoes and bay leaf, then bring to a simmer.
Cook for 20–25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the cooked turkey and let it heat through for about 5–10 minutes.
Season with salt, pepper, and herbs to taste.
Remove the bay leaf before serving and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 40–45 minutes, making the total time approximately 1 hour.

Variations

You can add peas, green beans, or corn for extra vegetables. Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor. For a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. You can also add a splash of cream for a richer version or include mushrooms for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water if it has thickened too much. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use raw turkey instead of cooked?

Yes, but cook it fully before adding it to the stew.

How do I thicken the stew?

The flour helps thicken it, but you can also mash some potatoes or simmer longer.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients except the turkey and cook, then add turkey near the end.

What herbs work best?

Thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf add great flavor.

Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months.

What can I use instead of flour?

You can use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour alternative.

Can I add wine?

Yes, a splash of white wine can enhance the flavor.

How do I make it more flavorful?

Use a rich broth and let it simmer longer to deepen the taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, just avoid adding cream or butter.

What should I serve with turkey stew?

It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad.

Conclusion

Leftover turkey stew is a comforting and practical dish that turns simple ingredients into a rich and hearty meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a perfect way to enjoy leftovers while creating something warm and satisfying.

Print
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Leftover Turkey Stew

A hearty and comforting stew that transforms leftover turkey into a rich, satisfying meal with tender vegetables and a savory broth.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, cubed or shredded
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups turkey or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon thyme or rosemary

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for about 1 minute.
  4. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring.
  5. Add tomato paste and mix well.
  6. Gradually pour in broth, stirring to avoid lumps.
  7. Add potatoes and bay leaf, then bring to a simmer.
  8. Cook for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  9. Stir in turkey and cook for 5–10 minutes.
  10. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
  11. Remove bay leaf and serve hot.

Notes

  • Add peas, corn, or green beans for extra vegetables.
  • Use sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
  • Mash some potatoes to thicken the stew.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Author: oussama
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes

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