Ingredients
- 1 cup leftover stuffing
- 1 tablespoon leftover turkey gravy
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 ½ cups leftover roast turkey, white and/or dark meat, diced
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
Why This Meal Is A Winner
This dish turns leftover turkey into a creamy, savory delight that feels special and comforting. It’s a great way to reduce waste while enjoying a unique twist on classic cheesecake. The rich flavors blend perfectly, making it a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
Better Cooking Tips
- Use finely shredded turkey to ensure a smooth texture throughout.
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Bake in a water bath to keep the cheesecake moist and prevent cracking.
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps in the batter.
- Bake in a water bath to keep the cheesecake moist and prevent cracking.
Step 1
Gently heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix together the stuffing and a tablespoon of gravy, then press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan to form a crust.
Step 2
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese, ricotta, eggs, and three tablespoons of gravy until everything is smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the diced turkey so it’s evenly distributed.
Step 3
Pour the filling over the stuffing crust in the pie pan, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes until the cheesecake is set. Once it’s out of the oven, spread the cranberry sauce over the top, and you’re ready to serve!
Serving Advice
Serve warm or chilled with a side of cranberry sauce or a fresh green salad. A drizzle of herb-infused olive oil can add extra flavor. This dish pairs well with light white wines or sparkling water with lemon.
Leftover Care Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the texture creamy. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh turkey instead of leftover turkey?
Yes, you can use cooked fresh turkey, just make sure it’s fully cooked and diced before adding.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone as a substitute for ricotta.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Can I use a different type of gravy?
Yes, any turkey or chicken gravy works well in this recipe.
What if I don’t have stuffing?
You can use breadcrumbs mixed with herbs as a crust alternative.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Eggs help set the cheesecake, so skipping them may affect the texture. Use egg replacers if needed.
