What to Do With Thanksgiving Leftovers (3 Creative Recipes You’ll Love)

Calabrian Chili Stuffing Air Fryer Balls

The day after Thanksgiving usually comes with two things: cozy vibes and an overloaded fridge. If you’re tired of basic turkey sandwiches, we’ve created three fresh ways to turn leftovers into completely new dishes - all elevated with La Brea Bakery artisan breads and our Calabrian Chili Stuffing recipe. 

Whether you’re craving something crispy, comforting, or brunch-ready, these ideas will help you make the most of every leftover bite. 

If you made our fan-favorite Chorizo-Calabrian Chili Stuffing, this recipe is an absolute must. These air-fried stuffing balls are crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and full of bold flavor. 

Ingredients 

  • 3 cups leftover Chorizo–Calabrian Chili Stuffing 

  • 1 cup leftover turkey, shredded or diced 

  • 1 cup leftover cheese (any type works!) 

  • Neutral oil 

Instructions 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. 

  1. Divide the stuffing into five portions. 

  1. Roll each portion into a ball, then gently pull it apart. 

  1. Add turkey + cheese to the center, then reshape into a tight ball. 

  1. Brush lightly with oil. 

  1. Air fry 6-8 minutes, or until golden and warmed through. 

Serving Tip: 
Pair with a Calabrian chili mayo or your favorite dipping sauce. 

2. Turkey & Stuffing Waffles 

These savory waffles are warm, crispy, and perfect for a relaxed holiday brunch. 

Ingredients 

  • Stock (chicken or vegetable), if needed 

Instructions 

  1. Stir your leftover stuffing so the crispy top pieces are evenly mixed. 

  1. Add a splash of stock if the mixture is too dry - it should be tacky and moldable. 

  1. Heat and grease your waffle iron. 

  1. Press 1½ cups of stuffing into the iron, spreading it evenly. 

  1. Close and cook for about 5 minutes, or until golden brown. 

  1. Flip the iron if needed for even cooking. 

Serving Ideas: 
Top with a fried egg, turkey, gravy, or cranberry sauce. 

This stacked, cozy, gravy-smothered sandwich uses our Country White Sourdough Loaf, toasted until perfectly crisp. 

Ingredients 

  • 4 slices La Brea Bakery Country White Sourdough, toasted 

  • 8 thin slices turkey 

  • 8 slices ham 

  • 4 oz roasted kale or other cooked greens 

  • 4 cups turkey gravy 

  • Sweet potato mash 

Instructions 

  1. Place toasted bread slices on your workspace. 

  1. Spread sweet potato mash onto each slice. 

  1. Add turkey and ham. 

  1. Top with roasted kale. 

  1. Plate and pour ½ cup gravy over each sandwich. 

Warm, savory, and satisfying - this recipe tastes like Thanksgiving all over again. 

More Holiday Recipes From La Brea Bakery 

From artisan breads to seasonal ideas, explore recipes that bring people together. 
👉 Browse all recipes 

Find La Brea Bakery Near You 

Use our locator to find seasonal loaves and Take & Bake favorites. 
👉 Store Locator 

Join Our Newsletter

To receive exclusive La Brea Bakery recipes, offers, updates, and more.