If you are like most Americans, you will have plenty of food left after the Thanksgiving meal. Instead of wasting it, you can turn those leftovers into delicious dishes your family will enjoy. Plus, you will save money while doing it.

Thanksgiving dinner usually costs a lot, and chances are you still have enough food to feed an army. You can make the most out of that big turkey, but don’t forget—it won’t last forever in the fridge. The USDA warns that turkey, stuffing, or gravy kept at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour if it’s hotter than 90°F) must be thrown away. Refrigerated turkey lasts only 3–4 days, so don’t leave it out all day for people to graze.

The good news is you can freeze turkey for up to 6 months. That doesn’t mean your family will happily eat turkey for half a year, but you can save money by using it in creative ways. Proper storage is key—divide the leftovers into small containers, refrigerate some, and freeze the rest. Now, let’s explore some tasty recipes that will keep your family from saying, “Turkey again?”

Pocket Pies

Martha Stewart’s golden-brown pocket pies use mashed potatoes, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and of course, turkey. Kids will love them!

Turkey à la King

This classic dish is always a hit and freezes well. Use leftover turkey, green beans, and carrots to create a comforting Turkey à la King.

Dinner Mac and Cheese

Upgrade your mac and cheese by adding leftover turkey or ham, vegetables, and even crackers. This hearty dish is sure to please.

Fiesta Turkey Soup

Give your taste buds a break from traditional Thanksgiving flavors. This zesty turkey soup pairs perfectly with cornbread.

The Ultimate Turkey Sandwich

Don’t settle for plain turkey on bread. Build a sandwich with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and a gravy-soaked slice of bread in the middle for extra flavor.