I’m all about experimenting with new recipes and flavors, especially this Thanksgiving day.
But let’s be real, sometimes the best dishes are the ones that come from leftovers.
I mean, who doesn’t love a good mashup of Thanksgiving leftovers? It’s like a culinary game of Tetris – you never know what amazing combination you’ll come up with.
And trust me, these 15 ovo-vegetarian Thanksgiving leftover recipes are about to become your new go-to’s.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into the world of Thanksgiving leftovers and discover some amazing new recipes.
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Green Bean Casserole Dumplings
Why make green bean casserole the same old thing every year? Here’s a game-changing hack: turn it into crispy Asian-inspired dumplings.
It’s the ultimate East-meets-Thanksgiving fusion that’ll make your family forget they’re eating leftovers.
Quick prep:
Chop up 2 cups of your leftover green bean casserole until it’s almost paste-like.
Grab those Wonton Wrappers (found in the refrigerated section – they’re the best for frying).
In the middle of each wrapper, put a teaspoon of the mixture.
Important: Don’t overstuff, or they’ll burst while frying!
Dip your finger in water, run it along the edges, and fold into triangles to form a nice and even looking dumpling.
Press firmly to seal – no filling should escape.
Heat the vegetable oil to 350°F and fry each side for two to three minutes, or until a golden hue is achieved.
The kicker? That sweet chili sauce for dipping! The combination of crispy wrapper, creamy filling, and sweet-spicy sauce is mind-blowing.
Makes about 24 dumplings – perfect for a post-Thanksgiving snack attack!
Pro-tip: Line a plate with paper towels to drain excess oil, and serve while hot.
Mashed Potato Waffle Breakfast Stack
Got a mountain of leftover mashed potatoes? Don’t just reheat them – transform them into something extraordinary!
These potato waffles are the epitome of comfort food bliss – chewy on the surface and fluffy on the inside.
Using the Cuisinart Belgian Waffle Maker (which I swear by for its even heating), you’ll create restaurant-worthy breakfast stacks that’ll make everyone forget they’re eating leftovers.
Quick Look At Ingredients To Make Mashed Potato Waffle Breakfast stack:
- 2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup flour
- Leftover roasted vegetables (If you don’t have this make one)
Instructions To Make Mashed Potato Waffle
Mix 2 cups of your leftover mashed potatoes (yes, even the garlicky ones!) with a beaten egg and ¼ cup of flour until smooth.
Here’s the game-changer: Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes – this helps the flour hydrate properly.
While waiting, crank up that waffle iron to medium-high.
A light spritz of cooking spray, dollop the mixture in the center, and let the magic happen for 5-7 minutes until golden-brown and crispy.
Stack these beauties with your leftover roasted veggies, and if you’re feeling fancy, crown it with a poached egg.
You will feel weak in the knees from the sauce made by the oozing yolk.
Serving tip: Keep the finished waffles warm in a 200°F oven while making the rest.
Cranberry Sauce Breakfast Parfait
Who says you can’t have dessert for breakfast? This breakfast parfait cleverly transforms your tangy leftover cranberry sauce into a morning treat that’s both indulgent and nutritious.
Ingredients Required to make this cranberry infused breakfast
- Leftover cranberry sauce
- Greek yogurt
- Leftover streusel or crumbled pie crust
- Granola
For the best results, I use FAGE Total 5% Greek Yogurt – its thick, velvety texture is unmatched for parfaits.
Step-by-Step Assembly:
- Start with ¼ cup Greek yogurt as your base
- Warm 2-3 tablespoons cranberry sauce for 10 seconds in the microwave – it spreads easier
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of your crumbled pie crust or streusel
- Add another layer of yogurt (about ¼ cup)
- Top with more cranberry sauce
- Finish with a handful of your favorite granola (I love Nature’s Path Pumpkin Seed + Flax)
Pro tip: Add a drizzle of honey if your cranberry sauce is on the tart side
Make-ahead trick: Layer everything except the granola the night before. Add the granola right before eating to keep that perfect crunch.
Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Bites
Looking for the ultimate party snack that’ll wow your post-Thanksgiving guests? These Sweet Potato Mac and Cheese Bites are pure genius.
They’re basically your leftover sweet potato casserole living its best second life.
Here Are The Ingredients Needed For Sweet Potato Mac And Cheese Bites
- Leftover sweet potato casserole
- Cooked macaroni
- Shredded cheese
Instructions To Make Sweet Potato Mac And Cheese Bites
Grab 2 cups of that sweet potato casserole (marshmallows and all), fold it into 1½ cups cooked elbow macaroni, and mix in a generous handful of sharp cheddar.
Using my favorite Wilton Non-Stick Mini Muffin Pan (seriously, nothing sticks to this beauty), fill each cup about ¾ full.
The secret? Press the mixture in firmly with the back of a spoon for that perfect bite-sized shape.
A sprinkle of shredded Gruyere on top transforms into a golden-brown crust after 15 minutes at 375°F.
Let them cool for 5 minutes – trust me, these little guys are like molten lava when they first come out.
They have a crunchy exterior, a creamy interior, and are completely irresistible.
Plus, they’re perfect for Black Friday football watching as well!
Makes 24 bites, but don’t expect leftovers of these leftovers.
Thanksgiving Leftover Spring Rolls
Who says Thanksgiving leftovers have to be boring? These fusion spring rolls are about to become your new day-after tradition.
The Essentials:
- 8-10 rice paper wrappers (these ones never tear)
- Your leftover roasted veggie medley
- Those green beans nobody finished
- Mint & basil (fresh, please!)
- Sweet-tart cranberry sauce
Let’s Roll: Ready for some rolling therapy? Dip each wrapper in warm water for 5 seconds, then work quickly:
- Place wrapper on clean surface
- Layer herbs first (trust me on this)
- Add warm veggies in the center
- Fold in sides, roll like a burrito
- Serve right away with a little rice vinegar and cranberry sauce
Quick tip: Keep rolls from sticking by laying them on lettuce leaves instead of directly on the plate.
Mashed Potato Croquettes with Cranberry Center
Turn your leftover mashed potatoes into a fun, crispy treat with a cranberry twist.
These croquettes are a perfect combo of creamy mashed potatoes with a pop of tart cranberry sauce in the middle – plus, they’re so easy to make.
Here’s What You’ll Need For Mashed Potato Croquettes:
- Leftover mashed potatoes
- Cranberry sauce
- Breadcrumbs (try panko for extra crunch)
- Oil for frying
Quick Steps:
- Shape your mashed potatoes into small balls.
- Create a little dent, spoon in some cranberry sauce, then close it up.
- Roll each croquette in breadcrumbs for a satisfying crunch.
- Fry them in heated oil until they are crispy and brown.
Serve them up hot, and maybe even pair with a dipping sauce.
Roasted Vegetable and Stuffing Frittata
Transform Thanksgiving leftovers into a brunch masterpiece.
This frittata combines those savory roasted veggies and stuffing into one easy, cheesy dish that’s satisfying and simple.
What You’ll Need For Roasted Vegetable & Stuffing Frittata:
- Leftover roasted vegetables
- Leftover stuffing, crumbled
- 6 eggs
- Cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or whatever’s in the fridge)
- A good cast iron skillet for even cooking and a crispy edge
How to Make It:
- Turn the oven on to 375°F and beat the eggs until they are smooth.
- In your skillet, layer roasted veggies and stuffing (they’ll add that cozy holiday flavor).
- Generously pour the egg mixture over the top and sprinkle with a generous amount of cheese.
- Bake for a period of 15 to 20 minutes, or until a golden-brown hue is achieved and the texture is firm.
Serve slices warm with a side of greens for a perfect balance, and don’t skip that cast iron – it makes all the difference in getting that crispy, delicious edge.
Sweet Potato Casserole Pancakes
Turn those leftover sweet potatoes into dreamy, fluffy pancakes that’ll make breakfast feel like dessert.
These pancakes bring out all the cozy, spiced flavors of your sweet potato casserole, making them a weekend-morning treat.
Here’s What You Need:
- Leftover sweet potato casserole
- Your favorite pancake mix
- A little Milk (Add a bit more milk if your batter appears too thick)
- Butter for the griddle
How to Make Them:
- Blend your sweet potato casserole into the pancake batter for a boost of flavor and richness.
- Heat up your griddle, give it a buttery kiss, in other words grease with butter.
- Spoon small circles of batter onto the griddle and cook until tiny bubbles form on the surface.
- Turn over and continue cooking, keep frying until the opposite side is browned.
Note: You can add a cloud of whipped cream or a drizzle of dreamy maple syrup to make it even better.
For a foolproof pancake base, check out this fluffy pancake mix that pairs perfectly.
Thanksgiving Shepherd’s Pie
Give leftover veggies a starring role in this cozy, vegetarian shepherd’s pie.
With a layer of rich mashed potatoes and melty cheese on top, it’s a delicious way to reinvent Thanksgiving flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Use:
- Roasted vegetables
- Gravy (veggie or traditional)
- Mashed potatoes
- Shredded cheese (cheddar is great here)
To Make This Thanksgiving Shepherd’s Pie:
- Preheat your oven to a toasty 375°F followed by creating a flavorful foundation with roasted vegetables, bathed in rich, savory gravy.
- Add a thick layer of mashed potatoes and a good amount of cheese to the dish.
- Ideally, the cheese should be bubbling and golden brown after baking.
This rich, comforting dish is ideal for cozying up on a chilly evening.
Try it with this ceramic baking dish for even cooking and a rustic look at the table.
Stuffing Waffles with Gravy
Take your leftover stuffing to the next level by turning it into crispy waffles, perfect for a post-Thanksgiving brunch. And the best part? It’s ridiculously easy.
Ingredients Needed For Making Waffles With Gravy:
- 2 cups leftover stuffing
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup leftover gravy
Recommended: Krups Double Belgian Waffle Maker ($69.99)
Instructions To Make Stuffing Waffles With Gravy:
- Combine the stuffing and beaten egg in a bowl and stir until thoroughly blended.
- Press the mixture into a preheated waffle maker (I’d recommend the KRUPS Double Belgian Waffle Maker for its even cooking and crispy results).
- Cook the waffles for about 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and have a crispy exterior.
- If you like, garnish with fresh herbs and serve with a drizzle of hot gravy.
This unique twist on traditional stuffing is sure to impress your family and friends.
And the best part? You can customize it to your taste by adding in diced turkey (If you are looking for a non-veg option), cranberries, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Green Bean Casserole Grilled Cheese
This Green Bean Casserole Grilled Cheese combines the rich, buttery flavor of sourdough with the creamy goodness of cheese and the savory taste of leftover green bean casserole.
It’s a simple yet satisfying way to elevate your leftovers into a gourmet experience that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients Needed To Make This Easy Post Thanksgiving Day Recipe:
- Sourdough bread
- Leftover green bean casserole
- Cheese slices
- Butter
Instructions To Make This Green Bean Casserole Grilled Cheese
- Start by generously buttering two slices of sourdough bread, which adds a rich flavor and golden crispness.
- Next, layer your favorite cheese slices – thick gooey cheddar or creamy mozzarella – on one slice.
- Pile on the leftover green bean casserole, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Top it off with the second slice of bread and grill on medium heat until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is irresistibly melty.
- For an extra touch, consider using a non-stick skillet or a cast-iron pan for that perfect sear.
- Cut your masterpiece diagonally and serve it warm and if possible pair it with a side of tangy dipping sauce for an elevated experience.
Cranberry Sauce Hand Pies
To be very honest, these Cranberry Sauce Hand Pies are delightful treats and are a perfect way to use up leftover cranberry sauce, wrapped in a flaky crust that’s golden and sweet.
Each bite offers a burst of tangy flavor, making them an ideal snack or dessert that captures the essence of Thanksgiving in a portable form.
You’ll Need The Following Ingredients To Make This Mouthwatering Hand Pies:
- Pie crust (leftover or premade)
- Cranberry sauce
- Egg wash
- Sugar for sprinkling
Instructions To Make Cranberry Sauce Hand Pies:
Begin by rolling out your pie crust, whether it’s homemade or store-bought.
Use a round cutter to create perfect circles and spoon a dollop of tangy cranberry sauce onto each circle, making sure not to overfill.
Fold the crust over and crimp the edges with a fork for a classic, rustic finish.
Brush the tops with an egg wash for a beautiful golden finish, then sprinkle with sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Next up, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden and flaky.
These hand pies are perfect for snacking or as a festive dessert.
For an added touch and flavor, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Thanksgiving Buddha Bowl
This Thanksgiving Buddha Bowl brings together the best Thanksgiving leftovers in a wholesome, colorful way.
Perfect for a quick lunch that’s nutritious, satisfying and reduces the leftover waste.
What You Need:
- Leftover roasted vegetables
- Cooked quinoa or rice as a base
- A dollop of cranberry sauce
- Gravy, warmed up
- A handful of fresh greens (spinach or arugula works great)
How to make this thanksgiving buddha bowl:
- Reheat the roasted vegetables until warm.
- In a bowl, layer the quinoa or rice as a base.
- Layer the vegetables and top with fresh greens for a satisfying crunch.
- Spoon cranberry sauce on top and drizzle everything with warm gravy.
This cozy bowl is a balanced mix of flavors and textures, ideal for keeping things light after the feast.
Sweet Potato and Stuffing Veggie Burgers
Turn your leftovers into these tasty veggie burgers that bring a little Thanksgiving flavor to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Leftover sweet potato casserole
- Crumbled stuffing
- Black beans, mashed
How to Make It:
- Mash the black beans until smooth, then mix with sweet potato casserole and stuffing.
- Shape the mixture into firm, compact patties (It should be firm)
- Pan-fry in a little oil over medium heat until golden and crispy on each side.
- Serve on toasted buns with a dollop of cranberry sauce for that tangy finish.
These make a delicious lunch or dinner, and they’re a unique way to enjoy your Thanksgiving favorites.
Thanksgiving Squash Vessel Voyage
Key Ingredients Required To Make This Thanksgiving Squash Voyage:
- 2 acorn squash (cut in half, seeds scooped out)
- 2 cups leftover stuffing
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (or just use rice!)
- 1/2 cup cranberries (dried ones work great!)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (whatever you have – walnuts or pecans)
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Some olive oil for brushing
- Salt and pepper
The instructions for this noble feast:
- Begin by centering your oven’s energy at 400°F, allowing it to find its inner harmony.
- BRUSHHH the squash with OILLLL, season with SALLLLT and PEPPERRRR, then place them face DOWN like fallen heroes.
- While that’s getting toasted, grab your stuffing and just, like, mix it with all those other radical ingredients in a bowl.
- After precisely 25 minutes, you’ll observe that the squash has become tender to the touch, Watson.
- Allow your creation to return to the warm embrace of the oven for 15 more minutes, breathing life into every morsel.
- And with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, your magical transformation should be complete! This enchanted dish serves 4 lucky souls.
Final Thoughts
With these 15 ovo-vegetarian thanksgiving left over recipes, you’ll never have to worry about leftover mashed potatoes or cauliflower going to waste again.
From sweet potato waffles to stuffing-crusted cauliflower steaks, each recipe is a masterclass in creativity and flavor.
But what sets these recipes apart is their ability to elevate the humble leftovers into something truly special.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast, a satisfying lunch, or a show-stopping dinner, these recipes have got you covered.
