Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving: 7 Delightful Ways to Enjoy Leftovers

19 listopada, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh my goodness, can you believe how much turkey we always have left over after Thanksgiving? It’s like a turkey buffet that just keeps on giving! I’ve found that one of the best ways to use up that delicious leftover turkey is by making turkey cakes. Trust me, these little gems are not only super easy to whip up, but they’re also packed with flavor and texture! They transform that turkey into something new and exciting, making it a perfect main dish for the days following the big feast. You’ll absolutely love how crispy and delightful they are on the outside while being tender and savory on the inside. So, when you’re wondering what to do with all that turkey, just remember: turkey cakes Thanksgiving style are the way to go!

Ingredients for Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these turkey cakes a reality! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked turkey, shredded: This is the star of the show! Make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
1 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together and give the cakes a lovely texture. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your taste!
1/2 cup onion, chopped: I prefer yellow or white onions for their sweetness, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand!
1/2 cup celery, chopped: This adds a nice crunch and freshness. Don’t skip it; it really elevates the flavor!
2 eggs: These act as the binder, helping everything hold together beautifully.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: This adds moisture and richness, making the cakes extra delicious!
1 tsp garlic powder: Oh, the aroma! Just a little gives these cakes a wonderful depth of flavor.
1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning—adjust it to your taste if you like.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Just for a hint of spice and warmth.
1/4 cup parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness!

Make sure to have all these ingredients ready, and you’re all set to start whipping up those turkey cakes! It’s going to be a delightful experience, I promise!

How to Prepare Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving

Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making these scrumptious turkey cakes! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Preheat your oven: First things first, set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial because you want those cakes to cook evenly and get that gorgeous golden-brown color.
Mix it up: In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, chopped celery, eggs, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. I like to use a fork or my hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined—just make sure not to overmix!
Shape the patties: Now comes the fun part! Take a handful of the mixture and form it into patties, about the size of your palm. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing!
Prepare the baking sheet: Grab a greased baking sheet (I usually use a bit of cooking spray or olive oil) and place your turkey patties on it. Make sure to leave a little space between each one so they can crisp up nicely.
Bake to perfection: Pop those beauties in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the edges are nice and crispy—oh, the smell will be irresistible!
Time to serve: Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. They’re fantastic warm, and I love to pair them with cranberry sauce for a touch of sweetness!

And there you have it! You’ve just made delightful turkey cakes that are sure to impress. I can’t wait for you to taste them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: In just about 45 minutes, you can whip up a fantastic meal that everyone will love!
Perfect for using leftovers: These turkey cakes are a delicious way to repurpose that excess turkey from Thanksgiving, reducing waste and maximizing flavor.
Flavor-packed: With the combination of turkey, herbs, and spices, each bite is bursting with taste and comfort.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy these scrumptious cakes—perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual family gatherings.

Tips for Success with Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving

Ready to take your turkey cakes to the next level? Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your cakes turn out absolutely delicious every time!

Adjust the seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste the mixture before forming patties! If you think it needs a little more salt or pepper, go ahead and add it. You can also throw in some herbs like thyme or sage for an extra flavor boost!
Texture matters: If you find your mixture is too dry, add a touch more mayonnaise or a splash of chicken broth to moisten it up. Conversely, if it feels too wet, a few more breadcrumbs can help bind everything together.
Chill before baking: If you have time, let the formed patties chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps them hold their shape during cooking and makes them even crispier!
Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to mix in some shredded cheese, diced bell peppers, or even a hint of hot sauce for a little kick. The beauty of these turkey cakes is how versatile they can be!
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give your patties some breathing room on the baking sheet. This ensures they get that nice crispiness on the outside. If needed, bake in batches!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create turkey cakes that are not just good but absolutely mouthwatering! I’m so excited for you to try them—happy cooking!

Variations for Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving

Now, let’s talk about mixing things up a bit! One of the best parts about turkey cakes is how adaptable they are. You can easily customize them to fit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Veggie Boost: Add in some finely chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even grated zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the zucchini to avoid a soggy mixture!
Spice it Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat. You could also mix in some smoked paprika for a lovely smoky flavor!
Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love cheese? Try folding in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or even feta for a cheesy twist. It’ll add creaminess and a bit of tang that’s simply divine!
Herb Medley: Switch out the parsley for other fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or basil. Each herb brings its own unique flavor, making the cakes feel fresh and exciting!
Sauce it Up: Serve your turkey cakes with different sauces for a flavor explosion! A tangy barbecue sauce, zesty ranch dressing, or even a dollop of garlic aioli can elevate each bite to new heights!

Feel free to get creative and make these turkey cakes your own! The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to discover your favorite combinations. Happy experimenting!

Nutritional Information for Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving

Let’s take a moment to chat about the nutritional goodness packed into these turkey cakes! Each serving is not only delicious but also brings a balance of flavors and nutrients to your plate. Here’s the estimated nutritional information per turkey cake:

Calories: 180
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 350mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients used, so they may vary slightly depending on the specific brands or substitutions you choose. But overall, I love how these turkey cakes offer a satisfying and nutritious way to enjoy that leftover turkey while keeping it light and flavorful. Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s a delicious choice for your meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving

Now that you’ve whipped up these delightful turkey cakes, let’s talk about how to store any leftovers (if there are any, right?). Proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty for your next meal!

Storing Leftovers: Once the turkey cakes have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. I love using glass containers because they keep things fresh and you can see what’s inside! If you’re stacking them, place a layer of parchment paper between the cakes to prevent them from sticking together.

These cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you know you want to save some for later, they also freeze beautifully!

Freezing: To freeze, wrap each turkey cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they can last up to 2 months in the freezer. Just make sure to label the bag with the date, so you can keep track of how long they’ve been in there!

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy those turkey cakes again, there are a couple of great methods:

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey cakes on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can pop a turkey cake in the microwave. Place it on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep it moist). Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to see if it’s warm enough.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your turkey cakes whenever the craving hits! I can already imagine how delicious they’ll be, even on day two or three. Happy eating!

FAQ about Turkey Cakes Thanksgiving

Can I use turkey breast instead of leftover turkey?
Absolutely! Shredded turkey breast works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to season it well to enhance the flavor since it can be a bit milder than darker meat.

What if I don’t have breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute breadcrumbs with crushed crackers, panko, or even oats if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. Just adjust the amount to achieve the right consistency.

Can I make these turkey cakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture, form the patties, and then refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just make sure to cover them well to keep them fresh!

How do I know when the turkey cakes are done?
They’re done when they’re golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. If you want to be extra sure, you can check with a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

What sauces pair well with turkey cakes?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love serving them with cranberry sauce for a classic touch, but you could also try a tangy barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a creamy garlic aioli for something different!

Call to Action

Now that you’ve got this fantastic turkey cakes Thanksgiving recipe in your hands, I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! If you give it a try, please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Did you make any fun variations? How did your family like them? Your feedback means the world to me, and it helps others discover this delicious dish too!

Also, if you enjoyed making these turkey cakes, consider rating the recipe! It really helps spread the word about this tasty way to use up leftover turkey. Sharing your experiences not only inspires me but also encourages fellow home cooks to dive into their kitchens and try something new. Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy every bite of your turkey cakes!

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O mnie

Cześć, nazywam się Julia, jestem sercem Vihaad Rrzepisy i pasjonatką dobrej kuchni. Moja miłość do gotowania zaczęła się w dzieciństwie, inspirowana pysznymi posiłkami mojej babci. Dziś dzielę się smacznymi przepisami, które łączą ludzi poprzez wspólne delektowanie się jedzeniem.