This popular Cracker Barrel dish inspires my favorite leftovers recipe

After the holiday feast has been cleared from the table, the extra food fills the refrigerator. Turkey, potatoes, and even some vegetables are carefully stacked in various containers. Instead of another heated plate or sandwich, my favorite leftovers recipe is inspired by a Cracker Barrel dish. It might become yours, too.

Earlier this year, Cracker Barrel revamped its menu. Although the chicken and dumplings and fluffy pancakes will always be a staple, the newer dishes have a homey feel. Additionally, they took some signature menu items and re-packaged them.

One dish is the hashbrown casserole shepherd’s pie. The perfect crisp, cheesy potato topping gives ways to a hearty helping of beef pieces, perfectly cooked vegetables, and gravy bringing all the flavors together. While there have been many viral videos with that dish, it is the simplicity of the satisfying comfort food that brings people back for more.

This year, that idea of classic comfort food that brings together all the flavors is my leftover recipe for turkey dinner. Given that the original feast features turkey, gravy, vegetables, and potatoes, it is the simple one pot meal that uses up all the food.

Although mashed potatoes are not necessarily the same as hashbrown casserole, the potatoes, with a little shredded cheese and extra butter, make for a great topping. When browned just right, the slightly crunchy layer gives way to a luscious texture.

From there, the creamy gravy ensures that each turkey piece is moist. Consider using the turkey in slightly bigger pieces versus thin pieces. No one wants to go searching for turkey in a sea of gravy.

Also, be thoughtful with the vegetables in the mix. Carrots work well, but Brussel Sprouts might be a hard no. This dish is not necessarily about including everything, like a “kitchen sink” scenario, but it is a good way to use up a lot of leftovers.

No one wants food to go to waste. Whether it is a Thanksgiving pizza, a riff on hashbrown shepherd’s pie, or another family favorite recipe, it is time to get back into the kitchen. Unless someone raided the fridge for a late night snack, the second round of Thanksgiving dinner could be even more flavorful than the first.