Transform your leftover turkey into a delicious and comforting Creamy Leftover Turkey Orzo. This quick and easy one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights and a fantastic way to reduce food waste.
Author:Lisa
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:One-Pot
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups cooked orzo pasta
1 cup leftover turkey, shredded
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup spinach, fresh
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnishing (optional)
Instructions
Cook orzo according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until mushrooms are tender.
Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
Add dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and simmer for 3-4 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly.
Fold in shredded turkey and cooked orzo. Mix until well combined and heated through, about 2 minutes.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, reduce heavy cream or use half-and-half.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas.
Substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes if needed.
For a vegetarian option, omit turkey and add more vegetables or beans.
If the sauce is too thick when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water.