The Ultimate Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowl: Reinvent Your Holiday Feast into a New Favorite Meal
After the grand feast of Thanksgiving, a delightful challenge often arises: what to do with all those delicious remnants? While a classic Thanksgiving meal is a joy, the mountain of leftovers can sometimes feel overwhelming. This innovative recipe for Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowls offers a brilliant solution, transforming your holiday bounty into a cohesive, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying one-bowl meal. Whether you’re aiming for a hearty plant-based option using chickpeas or prefer the comforting embrace of leftover turkey, this bowl is designed for maximum flavor and minimal fuss, ensuring a delicious meal is ready in no time.
Reinventing Thanksgiving Leftovers: The Perfect Bowl Recipe
Thanksgiving conjures images of overflowing tables, joyous gatherings, and incredible culinary creations. But as the last slice of pie is served and the dishes are cleared, a new reality sets in: the fridge is packed with an array of glorious leftovers. Instead of simply reheating individual components, imagine a meal that harmoniously blends all those distinct flavors and textures into a single, sensational bowl. That’s precisely what our Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowl achieves.
Brace yourselves…Thanksgiving is coming. And while you’ve undoubtedly poured your heart and soul into planning the perfect menu for the big day, have you given much thought to the days that follow? When the post-holiday exhaustion hits, and you’re staring into a fridge full of containers, wondering what culinary magic you can conjure, this Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowl will be your culinary hero. It’s not just a way to use up food; it’s about creating a whole new dining experience that’s just as comforting, if not more so, than the original feast.
This recipe is designed to simplify your post-holiday life without sacrificing an ounce of flavor. It takes the best of your Thanksgiving spread – the creamy mashed potatoes, the tart cranberry sauce, the rich gravy, and those perfectly roasted vegetables – and combines them with a fresh twist. By adding roasted chickpeas, seasoned with warm spices, or incorporating tender pieces of leftover turkey, you create a balanced, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying dish that feels both familiar and excitingly new.
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Key Ingredients for Your Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowl
The beauty of this bowl lies in its versatility and reliance on ingredients you likely already have on hand from your Thanksgiving preparations. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this delightful post-holiday creation:
- 4 Tbsp olive oil: The base for roasting our fresh vegetables and chickpeas, infusing them with flavor.
- 1 tsp salt + a pinch: Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural deliciousness of each component.
- ½ tsp cinnamon: Adds a warm, autumnal spice that beautifully complements sweet potatoes and bridges flavors.
- ½ tsp white pepper: A subtle spice that provides a gentle kick without overpowering.
- ¼ tsp cumin: Earthy and aromatic, cumin adds depth to the roasted vegetables and chickpeas.
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed: A quintessential Thanksgiving side, offering natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 can chickpeas, strained and patted dry: Our fantastic plant-based protein option, which roasts up wonderfully crispy. (Remember, you can easily substitute with leftover turkey!)
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved: These little green gems add a delightful bitterness and texture when roasted.
- 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced into chunks: Bringing more color and natural sweetness to the bowl.
- 1 tsp honey: A touch of honey helps caramelize the carrots, adding another layer of flavor.
- 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes (salted and buttered): The creamy, comforting foundation of your bowl. No Thanksgiving bowl is complete without them!
- ½ cup cranberry sauce: Provides that essential tart and sweet counterpoint, cutting through the richness.
- Leftover gravy: The ultimate unifier! If you have turkey gravy, great. If not, we’ve included instructions for a simple vegetarian version.
Essential Kitchen Tools You May Find Useful:
Gathering the right tools beforehand makes the assembly process even smoother. Most of these are standard kitchen items, but a quick check ensures a seamless cooking experience.
- Large baking sheet: Crucial for roasting your vegetables evenly.
- Parchment paper: Makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
- Chef’s knife: For efficient chopping and dicing of your fresh ingredients.
- Serving bowls: The star of the show for presenting your magnificent creation!
- Saucepan: If you plan to make the vegetarian gravy from scratch.
- Whisk: For combining your oil and spice mixture, and for gravy.
The Art of the Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowl: A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
You may be wondering how simply combining all of these Thanksgiving leftovers in a single bowl can actually taste good. The answer is simple: it creates a harmonious balance that is truly more than the sum of its parts. The magic happens when the distinct flavors and textures of each component come together. The comforting sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, the earthy crunch of Brussels sprouts, and the slight bite of carrots are beautifully seasoned with warm cinnamon, cumin, and pepper. The satisfying texture of the roasted chickpeas (or tender turkey) provides a hearty core.
Then, imagine the creamy, buttery mashed potatoes serving as a lush foundation, absorbing all the wonderful flavors. A dollop of bright, tart cranberry sauce provides a crucial acidic lift, cutting through the richness and adding a festive zing. Finally, a generous drizzle of savory gravy ties everything together, coating each bite with its rich, umami goodness. This is a meal that perfectly balances salty with sweet, tart with creamy, and soft with crisp, creating an exciting and satisfying experience in every spoonful. So without further ado, let’s get ready to rock and bowl!
Crafting Your Perfect Leftovers Bowl: Step-by-Step Guidance
Creating this delicious bowl is a straightforward process, largely involving warming up your prepared leftovers and roasting a few fresh additions. Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced and flavorful meal:
Preparation:
- Prepare the Spice Blend: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, 1 teaspoon of salt, cinnamon, white pepper, and cumin. This aromatic mixture will infuse your vegetables and chickpeas with incredible flavor.
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Add your cubed sweet potato chunks to the oil and spice mixture. Toss them thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sweet potatoes to a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arranging them in a single layer for even cooking.
- Season the Chickpeas: Next, add the strained and patted-dry chickpeas to the remaining oil mixture in the bowl. Toss them to coat thoroughly. Spoon the seasoned chickpeas onto the same baking sheet as the sweet potatoes, spreading them out. Remember, if you’re using leftover turkey instead, you’ll simply warm that up later, no roasting required!
- Add More Veggies: Scatter the halved Brussels sprouts and carrot chunks onto the baking sheet. Give each a light sprinkle of salt and drizzle the honey over the carrots. The honey will help them caramelize beautifully during roasting.
- Roast to Perfection: Place the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 400 degrees F (204 C) and roast for approximately 25 minutes. Cook until the vegetables are tender when pierced with a fork and the chickpeas are slightly crispy.
Making the Vegetarian Gravy (if needed):
If you don’t have leftover turkey gravy or prefer a vegetarian option, this quick and flavorful gravy is a fantastic addition:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, usually a few minutes.
- Build the Flavor Base: Stir in the soy sauce and nutritional yeast (which adds a cheesy, umami depth), followed by the flour. Mix well to create a thick paste, or roux.
- Thicken and Simmer: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring continuously with a whisk to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reduces and thickens to your desired consistency. Cover and set aside to keep warm.
Assembly:
- Warm Mashed Potatoes: Just before your roasted veggies are done, gently heat your leftover mashed potatoes in the microwave until warm and fluffy.
- Build Your Bowl: To assemble your masterpiece, spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes into the bottom of 2 or 3 serving bowls, creating a comforting base.
- Top with Goodness: Equally divide the roasted vegetables (sweet potatoes, chickpeas/turkey, Brussels sprouts, carrots) among the bowls. Feel free to add more mashed potatoes on top if you desire an extra creamy layer.
- The Finishing Touches: Add a delightful dollop of cranberry sauce to each bowl, providing that burst of sweet and tart flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Finally, drizzle generously with your warm gravy and serve immediately. Enjoy this comforting and creative take on your Thanksgiving leftovers!
Another fun and delicious way to use Thanksgiving leftovers is by turning them into a turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sandwich! Both are excellent ways to continue enjoying the flavors of the holiday.
Customization and Variations for Your Leftovers Bowl
One of the greatest aspects of the Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowl is its flexibility. Don’t feel limited to just the ingredients listed; this is your chance to get creative with what you have!
- Protein Power: As mentioned, leftover turkey is a classic choice. Shredded chicken, ham, or even roasted duck could also work beautifully. For more plant-based options, consider adding roasted tofu cubes, tempeh, or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and protein.
- Vegetable Swap: Have other roasted vegetables from Thanksgiving? Toss them in! Green bean casserole, roasted butternut squash, or even sautéed greens can find a happy home in this bowl. If you’re short on Thanksgiving sides, fresh spinach can be wilted in the bowl with the hot ingredients.
- Spice It Up: Want a little more kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to your spice mixture. A dash of smoked paprika can also add a wonderful smoky depth.
- Cheese Please: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese, like shredded cheddar, crumbled feta, or a dollop of goat cheese, can add another layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Herbacious Notes: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or a sprig of rosemary can brighten up the flavors right before serving.
- Sauce Adventures: Beyond gravy and cranberry sauce, consider a swirl of pesto, a dollop of a spicy aioli, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a different flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Future Enjoyment
These bowls are fantastic fresh, but they also make excellent meal prep for the days following Thanksgiving. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Storage: If you’re preparing bowls for later, store the components separately if possible to maintain optimal texture, especially for crispy roasted elements. However, if assembled, the bowl will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The roasted vegetables might lose some of their crispness, but the flavors will meld beautifully.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave until thoroughly warm. You can also gently warm them in a conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, covering the bowl with foil to prevent drying out, especially if it contains turkey. If any components feel dry, a small splash of broth or water can help revive them.
- Freezing: While mashed potatoes and gravy freeze well, the roasted vegetables and cranberry sauce might change texture upon thawing. This bowl is generally best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowls
To help you make the most of your post-holiday feasting, here are answers to some common questions about these versatile bowls:
Q1: Can I use different vegetables than sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and carrots?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to use any leftover roasted vegetables you have from your Thanksgiving meal, such as green beans, butternut squash, parsnips, or even a medley of bell peppers. If you don’t have roasted leftovers, you can quickly roast fresh broccoli, cauliflower, or asparagus along with the sweet potatoes and carrots for added variety.
Q2: How long do Thanksgiving leftovers last in the fridge?
Generally, most cooked Thanksgiving leftovers, including turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, and roasted vegetables, can be safely stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Cranberry sauce typically lasts a bit longer, up to a week. Always ensure food is reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q3: Can I prepare parts of this bowl ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Your Thanksgiving leftovers (mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and turkey) are already prepped. For the fresh vegetables and chickpeas, you can cube the sweet potatoes and carrots, halve the Brussels sprouts, and drain/pat dry the chickpeas a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready, simply toss them with the oil and spices, then roast.
Q4: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Some components are, but the assembled bowl is less ideal for freezing. Mashed potatoes and gravy typically freeze well. However, roasted vegetables, especially Brussels sprouts and carrots, can become mushy upon thawing. Chickpeas might also lose their desired texture. If you plan to freeze, it’s best to freeze mashed potatoes and gravy separately, and then prepare the roasted components fresh when ready to eat.
Q5: How can I make this bowl completely vegan or gluten-free?
This recipe is already largely plant-based if you opt for chickpeas over turkey. To make it fully vegan, ensure your mashed potatoes are made with plant-based milk and butter, and use the vegetarian gravy recipe provided (or a store-bought vegan gravy). For a gluten-free version, the recipe is naturally gluten-free if using chickpeas and if your gravy is made with a gluten-free flour alternative or cornstarch (if using the vegetarian gravy recipe) and your mashed potatoes and other components are verified GF. Always check labels for hidden gluten in pre-made items.
Q6: What other leftover meats could I use instead of turkey?
If you have other holiday roasts, they can be excellent additions. Shredded ham, sliced roast beef, or even leftover roasted chicken can be heated and incorporated into the bowl for a delicious twist. The key is to ensure the meat is fully cooked and simply needs to be warmed through.
Q7: Can I add a different type of sauce or topping?
Absolutely! While gravy and cranberry sauce are traditional, feel free to experiment. A drizzle of balsamic glaze, a dollop of a savory herb dressing, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or even a fried egg on top can add a unique twist and extra flavor dimension to your bowl.
These FAQs should help you confidently create and enjoy your personalized Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowls!
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- Pumpkin Pie Dip
- Pumpkin Spice Donuts
- Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
- Crockpot Cinnamon Apples
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Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Bowl
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
Veggies
- 4 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt + a pinch
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp white pepper
- ¼ tsp cumin
- 1 large sweet potato peeled and cubed
- 1 can chickpeas strained and patted dry*
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts halved
- 1 large carrot peeled and sliced into chunks
- 1 tsp honey
- 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes salted and buttered
- ½ cup cranberry sauce
Vegetarian Gravy (optional)**
- 1 Tbsp oil
- 2 Tbsp chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 Tbsp flour
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Before You Begin
**If you’re not vegetarian, just use leftover turkey gravy!
Instructions
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Whisk to combine olive oil, 1 tsp salt, cinnamon, pepper, and cumin.
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Toss sweet potato chunks through the oil mixture, then use a slotted spoon to remove and lay on a large parchment paper lined baking sheet.
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Add chickpeas to what is left of the oil mixture, toss to coat, and spoon onto the same baking sheet.
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Throw Brussels sprouts and carrots onto the baking sheet, sprinkling each with a pinch of salt, and drizzling honey over the carrots.
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Cook at 400 degrees F (204 C) for 25 minutes, or until veggies are fork tender.
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If you’re making the vegetarian gravy, heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat then add onion and garlic. Cook until translucent (a few minutes), then add soy, nutritional yeast, and flour. Stir to combine then slowly pour in broth, stirring continuously. Bring to a simmer then cook until gravy reduces to a thickness of your liking. Cover to keep warm and set aside.
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Heat up your leftover mashed potatoes in the microwave just before veggies are done cooking.
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To assemble, spoon mashed potatoes into the bottom of a bowl 2 or 3 serving bowls. Top equally with each of the veggies, adding more mashed potatoes on top if you’d like. Spoon on a dollop of cranberry sauce.
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Drizzle with gravy and serve warm!
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
