Don’t let your Thanksgiving feast end after one meal! Turn your leftovers into something exciting with these two creative recipes: Thanksgiving Leftovers Empanadas and Homemade Cranberry Sauce.
Instead of the usual reheated turkey and sides, these recipes transform your leftovers into delicious new dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory snack or looking to upgrade your cranberry sauce, these ideas will breathe fresh life into your holiday extras.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Empanadas
Perfect for a quick snack or a cozy meal, these empanadas transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into golden, handheld delights.
Ingredients
- Leftover turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes
- Dough of your choice (crescent roll dough, pie crust, puff pastry, empanada dough, or even wonton wrappers)
- Egg wash (1 egg + 1 tsp water)
- Leftover gravy
Directions
- Roll your dough out to approximately 1/8" thick and cut into 3"- 4" circles.
- On half of each circle, place 1-2 teaspoons of mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. Top with a small amount of turkey, leaving a clean edge.
- Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork for added flair.
- Place the empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush with egg wash.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the empanadas bake, heat leftover gravy on the stovetop.
- Serve the empanadas on a platter with the gravy for dipping.
Tip: These empanadas freeze well, so make extra to enjoy later!
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
If you’re tired of store-bought cranberry sauce, this fresh, zesty recipe will be a game-changer. Plus, it’s perfect as a side dish or as a filling for your empanadas!
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup water
- 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if frozen)
- 1 cinnamon stick, broken in half
- 2 wide strips of orange zest
- Juice of ½ an orange
Directions
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the cranberries, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and orange juice. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 12-15 minutes, until the cranberries burst, and the sauce thickens.
- Pour the sauce into a serving dish or container for storage. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Tip: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week—it’s a versatile addition to any meal!
KAM COMMENT: “Both recipes are simple to make and maximize the flavors of your Thanksgiving meal. The empanadas offer a creative way to use up turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce, while the homemade cranberry sauce is an upgrade on a classic favorite. Together, they ensure no leftovers go to waste while keeping your taste buds excited.”