Leftover Turkey Loaf
A comforting leftover turkey loaf packed with savory herbs, diced green peppers, and pimentos, offering a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or using up holiday turkey. Its moist texture and seasoned flavor make it an easy, satisfying meal for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place butter in a small dish and cook for 30 seconds or until melted.
- Combine eggs, milk, salt, bread crumbs, pimentos, green peppers, parsley flakes, and turkey in a bowl.
- Add melted butter and mix well.
- Spoon the mixture into a greased 2-quart ovenproof dish.
- Cover the dish.
- Cook for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Let stand for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or onion to the mixture. If you don't have pimentos, roasted red peppers make a great substitute. For a healthier version, use whole grain bread crumbs. If you want a creamier texture, you could mix in some cream cheese. Ensure the turkey is well-cooked and seasoned before incorporating it into the loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the turkey loaf with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For added flavor, drizzle a homemade gravy or cranberry sauce over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with Turkey Au Gratin for a hearty holiday feast. Don't forget to serve it with crusty bread to soak up any juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the turkey loaf in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also slice and microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leftover Turkey Loaf contains roughly 403 calories, with 7g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2045mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover turkey from a different recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up any leftover turkey, whether from Thanksgiving or another meal. Just ensure the turkey is cooked and shredded or cubed before adding it to the mixture.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply spoon it into the greased dish and cook as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
Can I freeze the leftover turkey loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the turkey loaf after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).