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Kate Hall’s Tasty Christmas Day Leftover Recipes

If you’re guilty of cooking far too much food on Christmas Day and then letting the extras go to waste, then there are a few handy things you should know to help ensure they always get eaten (even if you don’t fancy them the next day).

Whether you’ve got more turkey than you know what to do with or more than your fair share of brussels sprouts, our Christmas leftover recipes are sure to inspire you in the subsequent days.

How Long Do Christmas Leftovers Last?

The UK Food Standards Agency advise that leftovers should be eaten within two days, but if you know this is unlikely to happen, you can freeze them instead (and yes, it’s okay for them to be in the fridge for two days before you freeze them).

The key thing is to make sure your leftovers haven’t been sat out on the side for hours, though. It’s tempting to just roll onto the sofa after Christmas dinner, but taking a couple of minutes to get your cooled leftovers into a container and then into the fridge is vital!

Knowing how to store your food properly ensures you’re not wasting food and are saving money. This simple step helps avoid bacteria growth and helps to ensure your food stays fresh and safe to eat.
 

Tips for Freezing Christmas Leftovers Safely and Effectively

Whilst it might be tempting to cook your leftovers into another dish and then freeze this (hello, turkey curry!), you’re actually better off freezing the individual leftovers to cook with later, because food really shouldn’t be reheated more than once.

For example, instead of turning everything into a pie right away, freeze turkey, gravy, and vegetables separately. This keeps your options open for creating a variety of dishes later.

Cooked meat can be frozen wrapped in baking paper or foil in usable portions and stored in a freezer bag, or frozen in gravy to help keep its moisture. Additionally, using airtight containers or wrapping your food well also prevents freezer burn.

If you’re freezing leftover turkey or ham, try labelling the portions with the date and type of meat. That way, you’ll always know what’s in your freezer and can plan meals more easily.

Veggies can be frozen on a lined tray to stop them from clumping together, before transferring them to a freezer bag. Alternatively, if you are making soup with them, you can blend the leftovers (I like to add some cooked onion too), then either freeze them flat or in an ice cube tray. When you want your soup, you can simply break off a piece or grab a few cubes, heat them through and add some boiling water or stock!

Blended veggie cubes are also great for adding flavour to stews, casseroles, or even pasta sauces. They save time and reduce waste while adding a nutritious boost to your meals.
 

Simple and Tasty Leftover Ideas for Boxing Day

If you're wondering what to do with your Christmas leftovers, these tasty ideas will keep the entire family happy.
 

A Hearty Turkey Curry

Transform your leftover turkey into a mouthwatering meal with this quick and easy turkey curry recipe!

Simply grab your frozen turkey portions and stir them into a freshly made curry sauce towards the end of cooking. Whether you prefer a rich and creamy sauce or a spicy kick, it's the perfect way to give your leftovers a flavour-packed twist.
 

A Cosy Veggie Soup for Cold Winter Days

Turn your frozen Christmas veggies into a comforting, soul-warming soup in just minutes!

Simply blend your leftover veggies with a little cooked onion (if you like), then add some stock or boiling water for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s the ultimate easy recipe to warm you up on chilly days and make the most of your leftovers.

With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy a tasty and nourishing dish that’s packed with goodness and flavour, which is perfect for a no-fuss lunch or dinner between Christmas and New Year.

Still unsure about a veggie soup? Why not try a simple veggie crisp recipe for the perfect evening snack?!
 

Quick and Easy Bubble and Squeak

Whip up a quick and easy bubble and squeak, where each bite is more delicious and moreish than the last.

Simply fry your leftover mashed potatoes and veggies together until golden and crispy for a simple, mouth-watering meal that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Serve it as a tasty side alongside your leftover turkey or enjoy it as a satisfying dish all on its own. Plus, it’s super easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
 

Gravy-Infused Stew

Got leftover turkey and not sure what to do with it? Why not turn your frozen gravy portions into the perfect base for a rich, hearty turkey stew?

Simply heat the gravy and add your leftover meat and vegetables like carrots, parsnips and potatoes. Let it all simmer to create a comforting winter dish that’s bursting with flavour and warmth.

This easy recipe is the perfect way to enjoy your leftovers while filling your home with the irresistible scent of a wholesome, filling meal -ideal for those cosy, chilly evenings!
 

Fritters: The Perfect Leftover Stuffing Recipe

Take your leftover stuffing and turn it into delicious golden fritters!

Simply combine the stuffing with a beaten egg, form it into patties and pan-fry until perfectly crispy. These delicious fritters make for a tasty snack or a savoury side dish that adds a bit of crunch to any meal. They’re the perfect way to reinvent your leftovers and enjoy a comforting treat that everyone will love!
 

Find Out More…

Whether you’re searching for your next meal idea or the ultimate kitchen hack, our blog has you covered with tips, tricks and inspiration. Don’t forget to check out @freshmilkandmore on Instagram for easy video instructions and more top tips from Kate!