Pin it
These Thanksgiving quesadillas transform holiday leftovers into a crave worthy meal that feels special and easy at the same time. With melty cheese, savory turkey, sweet cranberry sauce, and herby stuffing, every bite brings that festive flavor you want, but without hours in the kitchen. Whether you are winding down after a big holiday dinner or looking for a creative lunch, this recipe makes leftovers something to look forward to.
When I first threw these together after a long Thanksgiving weekend, nobody could believe how delicious they turned out. Now people ask for them even when it is not the holidays.
Ingredients
- Olive oil or butter for cooking: This is your secret to getting that golden crispy tortilla and it adds flavor too. Choose a mild olive oil or unsalted butter for best results
- Fajita size tortillas: About eight inches each is just the right size. Sturdy flour tortillas work best to hold up to the fillings
- Cranberry sauce: Homemade is fantastic but store bought works well. The tartness balances all the savory notes
- Shredded or diced leftover turkey: Both dark and white meat taste great. Try to avoid very large chunks for even heating
- Stuffing: Roughly chopped. Break up big pieces so everything melts together nicely. Choose a stuffing that is not too wet so your quesadilla stays crisp
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: This melts beautifully. Choose whole milk mozzarella for extra stretch
- Leftover turkey gravy for serving: Optional but dunking adds another layer of flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Tortilla:
- Lay out one tortilla on a clean board or counter. Spread a generous tablespoon of cranberry sauce across the entire surface reaching the edges for even flavor
- Layer the Cheese and Fillings:
- Sprinkle about half a cup of shredded mozzarella right on top. Then add a layer of turkey being sure to break up any big pieces. Sprinkle the chopped stuffing over the turkey. Try to distribute everything evenly so every bite gets a little of each flavor. Top the layer with another half cup of mozzarella
- Assemble and Top:
- Place a second tortilla on top. Press it down gently so all the layers stick together. Clearly pressing keeps it from falling apart later
- Toast in the Skillet:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium low and drizzle with olive oil or add a pat of butter. Place your assembled quesadilla into the skillet. Press down with a plate to help seal the tortilla to the cheese. A gentle weight really helps the cheese melt evenly and makes the bottom crisp
- Flip and Finish Cooking:
- Once the bottom tortilla is golden brown and crispy carefully remove the plate and flip the quesadilla. Sometimes a filling or two escapes just coax it back in with your spatula. Put the plate back on top and cook the second side until equally browned and all the cheese inside is fully melted
- Serve and Repeat:
- Slide the finished quesadilla onto a board. Cut into wedges and serve hot. Dip in piping hot leftover turkey gravy if you have it. While each quesadilla cooks you can either serve them right away or keep them warm in a three hundred fifty degree oven on a rack
Pin it
One of my favorite parts of these quesadillas is the contrast from tangy cranberry sauce against the creamy cheese. Sometimes I end up making extra cranberry just for this meal. My family gets ridiculously excited about leftover night now because of these.
Storage Tips
Let leftover quesadillas cool completely before wrapping them well in foil or placing in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on a skillet over medium heat or pop in the oven until the tortilla is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want that satisfying crunch.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap rotisserie chicken for turkey if your leftovers are running low. If you are out of mozzarella try Monterey Jack for a similar melt and flavor. For vegetarian guests you can bulk up the filling with roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms and leave out the turkey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping and a generous drizzle of hot turkey gravy. These pair really well with a simple salad of arugula or spinach dressed in a little lemon and olive oil. If you want to stretch a holiday party offer a build your own quesadilla bar with all the fixings.
Thanksgiving Quesadillas and Tradition
Quesadillas are a classic Mexican staple but with Thanksgiving leftovers inside they get an American holiday spin. Combining traditions like this always sparks conversation at my table and makes the meal feel like a celebration even after the big event.
Pin it
These quesadillas take leftovers to party status and make everyone happy. Try them once and you will want Thanksgiving dinner to last all week.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What tortillas work best for these quesadillas?
Fajita-sized flour tortillas are ideal, holding all ingredients and crisping up evenly when heated.
- → Can I use a different cheese than mozzarella?
Yes, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend will melt nicely and complement the savory ingredients.
- → Is it possible to make these ahead of time?
You can assemble the quesadillas in advance and toast them when ready to serve for best texture.
- → What can I use instead of turkey?
Shredded chicken, ham, or a plant-based protein work as alternatives for turkey in this dish.
- → How do I keep the quesadillas warm for a crowd?
Place finished quesadillas in a 350°F oven until ready to serve so they stay crisp and melty inside.