12 Thanksgiving Leftover Pizza Ideas You Need to Try in 2024

Thanksgiving is all about gathering, sharing, and, of course, eating. After the big feast, you’re left with a fridge packed with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and perhaps a few creative ideas for what to do with them.

Let’s twist those Thanksgiving leftovers this year into delicious pizzas! Because really, who doesn’t love a warm, melty slice of pizza?

These ideas will take your leftover turkey, cranberry, and stuffing to a new level, giving you the perfect excuse to indulge in pizza while keeping the Thanksgiving spirit alive.

So, grab your favorite pizza crust, whether homemade, store-bought, or flatbread, and explore some mouth-watering Thanksgiving leftover pizza ideas!

1. Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Pizza

A Hearty Pizza with the Best of Thanksgiving’s Classics!

Leftover Turkey and Stuffing Pizza

Imagine combining savory, tender turkey and herbed stuffing on a crispy pizza crust. It’s like Thanksgiving dinner, but on a slice! This pizza brings together the holiday’s most beloved flavors in a whole new way, and it’s so satisfying you might wish Thanksgiving leftovers were an everyday thing.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust
  • 1 cup shredded turkey – dark or white meat.
  • 1 cup stuffing – break up into small, even pieces.
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, melty finish.
  • ¼ cup gravy – drizzle after baking for extra moisture and flavor.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the middle.
  2. Spread the pizza crust on a baking sheet or stone.
  3. Scatter shredded turkey evenly over the crust.
  4. Break up the stuffing into small pieces, distributing it across the pizza.
  5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously on top to bind everything together.
  6. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the stuffing begins to crisp.
  7. Drizzle with gravy for a deliciously rich finish. Slice and serve!

Why You’ll Love It:

  • The contrast between crispy crust and soft stuffing is delightful.
  • A drizzle of warm gravy on top gives each bite a burst of flavor, keeping it moist and packed with holiday vibes.

Pro Tip: Add extra cheese if you’re worried about stuffing drying out! It helps lock in moisture while adding a creamy texture.


2. Thanksgiving Leftover Burrito Pizza

A Fusion Pizza That Brings the Fiesta to Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Leftover Burrito Pizza

Why not shake things up and bring in some Tex-Mex flair? This Thanksgiving Leftover Burrito Pizza combines the richness of mashed potatoes with spicy, vibrant flavors. It’s got everything you love about a burrito — and it’s all on a pizza crust!

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust
  • ½ cup mashed potatoes – use as a creamy, hearty base.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey – a mild protein addition.
  • ½ cup corn kernels – fresh, canned, or frozen.
  • ½ cup stuffing – for extra texture and flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – sharp and melty.
  • ½ cup shredded lettuce, ½ cup diced tomatoes, ¼ cup sour cream – for fresh toppings.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
  2. Spread a thin layer of mashed potatoes over the pizza crust.
  3. Add shredded turkey, corn, and small chunks of stuffing evenly.
  4. Top with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.
  5. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cheese is golden.
  6. After baking, top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of sour cream. Slice and enjoy!

Why This Works:

  • Mashed potatoes make an unexpectedly amazing “sauce.” They’re rich and creamy and hold the toppings perfectly.
  • With excellent, fresh toppings added after baking, each slice is a fiesta of textures — warm, creamy, crispy, and fresh!

Tip: For a bit of heat, add a sprinkle of chili flakes before baking or serve with a side of salsa.


3. Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Pizza

The Perfect Morning-After Brunch for a Holiday Weekend!

If Thanksgiving left you with an abundance of turkey and eggs, why not bring them together in a deliciously savory breakfast pizza? Using gravy as a base and scrambled eggs as a topping, this pizza turns leftovers into a morning masterpiece.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust
  • ¼ cup gravy – rich and savory base.
  • 4 large eggs – scrambled, fluffy perfection.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey – a lean, filling protein.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped chives or green onions for a fresh garnish.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center.
  2. Spread a layer of gravy over the pizza crust as your sauce.
  3. Add scrambled eggs across the crust for that breakfast feel.
  4. Sprinkle turkey pieces and cheese on top.
  5. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
  6. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions before serving.

Flavor Boost:

  • The fluffy scrambled eggs and melted cheese make this pizza feel like breakfast in each bite.
  • Gravy gives it a rich, savory edge, perfect for the morning after Thanksgiving.

Pro Tip: Add a dash of hot sauce on top for a spicy twist!


4. Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie Pizza

All the Comfort of a Pot Pie with the Convenience of Pizza!

Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Pot Pie Pizza

If you’re craving the comforting flavor of a pot pie but want something lighter and faster, this Turkey Pot Pie Pizza is the answer. Using creamy mushroom or chicken soup as the base, this pizza is cozy, filling, and tastes like a slice of Thanksgiving comfort.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust
  • ⅓ cup cream of mushroom or chicken soup – for a pot-pie-inspired base.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey – tender and flavorful.
  • ½ cup peas and carrots – classic pot pie veggies.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – holds it all together.
  • ½ tsp dried thyme (optional) – for that earthy pot-pie taste.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread cream of mushroom or chicken soup over the pizza crust as your sauce.
  3. Add shredded turkey, peas, carrots, and any other leftover veggies.
  4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, along with a sprinkle of thyme.
  5. Bake for 12–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

Taste and Texture:

  • With a creamy base, melty cheese, and tender bites of turkey, this pizza captures the essence of a comforting pot pie.
  • The thyme adds a lovely, earthy note that brings out the flavor of the veggies and turkey.

Quick Tip: Want more texture? Add some crumbled pie crust or a handful of crushed crackers for that flaky pot-pie crunch.


5. Easy Leftover Turkey Pizza

A Quick and Simple Way to Use Leftovers!

Easy Leftover Turkey Pizza

This Easy Leftover Turkey Pizza is perfect when craving something comforting but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Cranberry sauce as the base gives the pizza a sweet-tart twist that pairs perfectly with turkey and melty cheese.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust
  • ¼ cup cranberry sauce – for a tangy, vibrant base.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey
  • 1 ½ cups mozzarella or brie cheese – creamy, melty goodness.

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet.
  2. Spread cranberry sauce over the pizza crust as the base. The cranberry sauce adds a sweetness that balances out the savory turkey.
  3. Distribute shredded turkey evenly across the crust.
  4. Top with mozzarella or brie cheese, covering the turkey for that melty finish.
  5. Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Slice and serve!

Flavor Tip: Brie cheese adds a creamy, luxurious touch, while mozzarella keeps it light and stretchy. Pick your favorite based on your mood!

Why You’ll Love It:

  • It’s quick, easy, and has minimal ingredients.
  • The combination of sweet cranberry and savory turkey is unexpected and delicious, offering a balance of flavors with each bite.

6. Margherita Turkey Pizza

A Fresh, Lighter Pizza with a Thanksgiving Twist!

Margherita Turkey Pizza

For a lighter take on Thanksgiving leftovers, try this Margherita Turkey Pizza. Inspired by the classic Italian Margherita, it uses fresh basil, mozzarella, and a touch of tomato sauce for a refreshing flavor. The turkey adds a unique holiday twist without overpowering the freshness.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust
  • ½ cup tomato sauce – classic Margherita base.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey – a lean protein addition.
  • 1 ½ cups fresh mozzarella – sliced or shredded.
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves – for garnish.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread tomato sauce over the pizza crust as the base. This gives it that classic Margherita flavor that everyone loves.
  3. Add shredded turkey, layering it evenly over the tomato sauce.
  4. Top with slices of fresh mozzarella.
  5. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant, herby finish.

Why This Pizza Works:

  • It’s light, fresh, and less wealthy than traditional Thanksgiving flavors, making it ideal for something more refreshing.
  • Combining basil, tomato, and mozzarella with turkey brings a familiar yet slightly festive twist.

Pro Tip: If you prefer a bit of spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking.


7. Thanksgiving Leftovers Stromboli Pizza

A Fun, Rolled-Up Twist That’s Perfect for Sharing!

Thanksgiving Leftovers Stromboli Pizza

This Thanksgiving, Stromboli wraps all your leftovers in pizza dough, creating a handheld, sliceable pizza roll. Perfect for snacking, sharing, or a cozy, casual dinner. Each bite includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and melty cheese.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza dough, rolled into a rectangle
  • ½ cup mashed potatoes – as the base layer for creaminess.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey
  • ½ cup stuffing – adds extra texture and flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Gravy or cranberry sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Roll out pizza dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
  3. Spread mashed potatoes thinly, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
  4. Scatter turkey, stuffing, and shredded mozzarella evenly over the mashed potatoes.
  5. Carefully roll the dough lengthwise into a log, tucking in the ends to secure the fillings.
  6. Transfer the Stromboli to a baking sheet, seam side down. Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Slice into pieces and serve with gravy or cranberry sauce for dipping.

What Makes It Special:

  • Stromboli is like a rolled-up pizza, which makes it portable and easy to serve.
  • Dipping each slice in gravy or cranberry sauce gives it an extra flavor, like a Thanksgiving meal, in every bite.

Tip: Use an egg wash for a golden crust, and consider adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for extra flavor.


8. Turkey Pepperoni Pizza

A Classic Pizza with a Thanksgiving Twist!

Turkey Pepperoni Pizza

Why not combine the familiar flavor of pepperoni pizza with shredded turkey for a new take on a classic favorite? Turkey and pepperoni create a deliciously savory pizza that feels festive and timeless.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust
  • ½ cup marinara sauce – traditional pizza sauce.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey – a mild flavor that complements pepperoni.
  • ½ cup pepperoni slices – add as much or as little as you like.
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – melty and gooey.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread marinara sauce over the pizza crust for a classic pizza base.
  3. Add shredded turkey evenly across the sauce.
  4. Arrange pepperoni slices on top of the turkey, spreading them out for even flavor distribution.
  5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until cheese is melted and golden.
  7. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • The turkey and pepperoni mix provides a flavorful combination, with each bite balancing mild turkey and slightly spicy pepperoni.
  • Marinara adds a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and meats.

Flavor Boost: Sprinkle dried oregano or Italian seasoning on top for an added layer of Italian-inspired flavor.


9. Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Pizza

Mini, Shareable Pizza Squares with All the Classic Flavors!

Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sliders Pizza

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a fun, shareable slider-style pizza. This pizza is perfect for slicing into small squares, making it ideal for snacking or sharing with friends and family. With turkey, stuffing, cheese, and a drizzle of gravy, every bite is a burst of Thanksgiving goodness.

Ingredients

  • 1 square or rectangular pizza crust – pre-made or homemade.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey
  • ½ cup stuffing – broken into small chunks.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup gravy – for drizzling.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Place the pizza crust on a baking sheet and top with shredded turkey and stuffing chunks.
  3. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the toppings.
  4. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Remove from the oven, drizzle with warm gravy, and cut into small squares for easy serving.

Why This Recipe Stands Out:

  • The small, square slices make this pizza perfect for sharing at a post-Thanksgiving gathering.
  • The combination of cheese, turkey, and stuffing is hearty and delicious, while the gravy drizzle adds the perfect finishing touch.

Pro Tip: For extra crunch, brush the edges of the crust with olive oil before baking and sprinkle with a little Parmesan cheese.


10. Roasted Turkey, Feta, & Cranberry Pizza

A Gourmet Pizza with Sweet, Tangy, and Savory Flavors!

Roasted Turkey, Feta, & Cranberry Pizza

This pizza combines roasted turkey with tangy feta and cranberry sauce for a slightly more sophisticated flavor. The balance of savory turkey, creamy and salty feta, and the sweetness of cranberry sauce gives this pizza a unique, refreshing taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 large pizza crust – thin or flatbread-style works best for this recipe.
  • ¼ cup cranberry sauce – as the base.
  • 1 cup shredded or sliced roasted turkey
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese – for a creamy, tangy bite.
  • 1 cup fresh arugula or spinach (optional) – adds freshness after baking.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread cranberry sauce over the pizza crust as the base.
  3. Layer shredded turkey and sprinkle with crumbled feta.
  4. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the crust is crispy and the feta softens.
  5. Remove from the oven and top with fresh arugula or spinach for added color and flavor.

Flavor Highlights:

  • The contrast between sweet cranberry and salty feta makes each bite exciting and delicious.
  • Arugula adds a peppery note that pairs beautifully with the creamy feta and turkey.

Tip: Add a sprinkle of crushed walnuts or pecans after baking for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.


11. Leftover Turkey Flatbread Pizza

A Quick, Crisp Flatbread with Classic Leftover Flavors!

Leftover Turkey Flatbread Pizza

Flatbreads make for a quick and easy pizza base, perfect for when you want something light and crispy.

This flatbread pizza uses cranberry sauce or mashed potatoes as a base, with turkey, stuffing, and cheese on top, creating a deliciously balanced flavor profile with minimal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 large flatbread – choose a thin, crispy style for quick baking.
  • 2 tbsp cranberry sauce or mashed potatoes – as the base.
  • ½ cup shredded turkey
  • ¼ cup stuffing – for texture.
  • ½ cup mozzarella or cheddar cheese – adds a melty, cheesy layer.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread cranberry sauce or mashed potatoes on the flatbread for a flavorful base.
  3. Layer shredded turkey and small chunks of stuffing evenly across the flatbread.
  4. Sprinkle with mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
  5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the flatbread are crispy.

Why You’ll Love It:

  • Flatbreads cook quickly and have a light, crispy texture, perfect for when you want something less filling.
  • The choice of cranberry sauce or mashed potatoes as the base offers a fun way to customize based on your flavor preference.

Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of fresh rosemary or thyme after baking for an extra herbaceous aroma.


12. Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza

A Classic Thanksgiving Combo with a Pizza Twist!

Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey and Cranberry Pizza

If you love the flavor pairing of turkey and cranberry, this pizza will hit all the right notes.

The cranberry sauce adds a tangy base, while the brie melts into a creamy, slightly sweet topping that pairs beautifully with the savory turkey.

Top it with arugula for a peppery contrast, making each bite both refreshing and comforting.

Ingredients

  • For that sweet and tart flavor, 1 large pizza crust
  • ¼ cup cranberry sauce.
  • 1 cup shredded turkey
  • 1 ½ cups brie cheese – sliced for a creamy topping.
  • 1 cup fresh arugula (optional) – adds color and freshness.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Spread cranberry sauce over the pizza crust as your base.
  3. Scatter shredded turkey evenly across the pizza.
  4. Arrange slices of brie over the top, covering the turkey as much as possible.
  5. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the brie is melted and the crust is golden.
  6. Remove from the oven and add a handful of fresh arugula for freshness.

Why It’s So Good:

  • The combination of brie and cranberry gives this pizza a sweet and creamy twist that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey.
  • Arugula’s peppery flavor cuts through the richness of the brie, adding balance.

Flavor Boost: For added texture, drizzle a bit of balsamic glaze over the pizza after baking.


Wrap-Up

And there you have it — 12 inventive ways to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers without feeling like you’re just repeating last night’s meal.

Pizza is endlessly versatile, and with these ideas, you’ll be excited to reach for those leftovers.

So, make a little extra next Thanksgiving and enjoy these delicious creations all weekend.

Leave a Comment