Name: Leftover Turkey Risotto Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 litres hot chicken or turkey stock; 125ml white wine or vermouth; Juice of half small lemon; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 tablespoon Mascarpone; 150g chestnut mushrooms, sliced (optional); 1 large onion, peeled and finely diced; 1 garlic clove, crushed; 1 teaspoon dried sage (or one tablespoon fresh, leaves finely chopped); ½ teaspoon dried rosemary (or one teaspoon fresh, leaves finely chopped); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 300g risotto rice; 300g leftover turkey meat, cut into bite-size pieces; 50g freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe·4 from 86 reviews

If you have some turkey leftover from a festive feast or a casual roast, transforming it into a comforting, creamy dish is a perfect way to keep the joy going. This Leftover Turkey Risotto Recipe brings together tender turkey, aromatic herbs, and the luscious creaminess of risotto into one satisfying meal. It’s a fantastic way to use up leftovers without compromising on flavor or indulgence, creating a dish that feels both cozy and elegant at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows a pot with short white grains of rice mixed with small pieces of cooked light brown onion and green herbs. The rice grains have a slightly shiny, soft texture. A wooden spoon is stirring the rice mixture, with part of the spoon's bowl lifting some rice. The inside of the pot has a metallic surface, reflecting light and showing some cooked bits stuck to it. The background surface is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the earthy mushrooms to the zesty lemon juice, every component contributes something special to this risotto.

1.5 litres hot chicken or turkey stock: The warm base that infuses the rice with rich and savory depth.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps soften the onions.
1 tablespoon butter: Brings creaminess and silkiness to the risotto’s texture.
150g chestnut mushrooms, sliced (optional): Earthy mushrooms add a lovely meaty texture and flavor boost.
1 large onion, peeled and finely diced: Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation for the dish.
1 garlic clove, crushed: Enhances flavor with a gentle pungency.
1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh, finely chopped): Adds a warm, herby note that pairs beautifully with turkey.
½ teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 teaspoon fresh, finely chopped): Lends a fragrant pine-like hint to bring complexity.
300g risotto rice: The star ingredient that absorbs all the flavors while staying creamy yet slightly al dente.
125ml white wine or vermouth: Brightens the dish with acidity and helps lift the depth of flavors.
300g leftover turkey meat, cut into bite size pieces: Tender and savory, the perfect protein addition that makes this risotto a hearty meal.
1 tablespoon Mascarpone: Adds extra creaminess and a slight sweetness to finish the dish luxuriously.
50g freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty richness and helps thicken the risotto.
Juice of half small lemon: A bright finish that balances the richness and adds freshness.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.

How to Make Leftover Turkey Risotto Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Stock and Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming your chicken or turkey stock in a saucepan—keeping it gently simmering ensures your risotto cooks evenly without losing heat. In a separate large pan, heat the olive oil and butter together over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent. This slow cooking unlocks the sweetness of the onion, creating the flavorful base your risotto demands. Add the crushed garlic and cook for one more minute to release its inviting aroma.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms and Add Herbs

If you’re adding mushrooms, now’s the time to toss them in and let them soften, soaking up the butter and oil. Their earthy depth complements the leftover turkey perfectly. Sprinkle in the dried sage and rosemary, stirring gently so that these fragrant herbs infuse every bite with a warm, rustic character.

Step 3: Toast the Rice and Deglaze with Wine

Pour in the risotto rice, stirring it through the aromatic mixture so each grain is well-coated and slightly toasted. This step is crucial as it helps the rice release its natural starches, leading to that signature creamy texture. Next, add the white wine or vermouth; let it bubble and reduce, stirring occasionally. This brightens the dish and adds a subtle complexity that balances the richness.

Step 4: Gradually Add Stock and Stir

With the heat turned to medium-low, ladle in the warm stock one cup at a time, stirring often and ensuring each addition is mostly absorbed before adding the next. This slow absorption process is the heart of making risotto, coaxing out the rice’s creamy goodness while building flavors steadily.

Step 5: Incorporate the Leftover Turkey and Finish the Risotto

When the rice is just tender, fold in your tender bits of leftover turkey so they warm through without drying out. Stir in the mascarpone and grated Parmesan which enrich the dish and tie all the flavors together. Finally, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens everything, giving this Leftover Turkey Risotto Recipe a vibrant finish. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper to your taste.

How to Serve Leftover Turkey Risotto Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a pot filled with creamy risotto. The base layer is made up of soft, plump grains of rice mixed with small pieces of cooked mushroom and pinkish bits of meat scattered throughout. On top of the risotto, there is a dollop of thick white ricotta cheese on one side and a generous sprinkling of finely grated pale yellow Parmesan cheese with a hint of black pepper on the other. The texture looks rich and smooth with slight chunkiness from the mushrooms and meat. The pot has a metallic inside surface with the food resting against it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on top add a pop of color and freshness that invites you to dig in. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few shavings of Parmesan elevate the presentation and flavor, making your plate feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This risotto stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil, or roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture and nutrition. A crusty artisan bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant touch, serve the risotto in individual warmed bowls or wide-rimmed plates, garnished with edible flowers or microgreens. Alternatively, try a rustic presentation in a cast-iron skillet brought straight to the table for a cozy, communal feel that invites conversation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Leftover Turkey Risotto Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop, but make sure to cool it quickly to keep it safe and tasty.

Freezing

While risotto is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When thawed, it might be slightly softer, but reheating gently with a splash of broth or water helps restore its creamy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the risotto slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little stock or water as needed to loosen it up. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can dry out the rice and create uneven heating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of turkey in this risotto?

Absolutely! While turkey is traditional here, chicken, duck, or even leftover roast beef can be wonderful substitutes. Just ensure the meat is tender and cut into bite-size pieces for a balanced bite.

Is it necessary to use wine in the risotto?

Wine adds a lovely acidity that brightens the dish, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with extra stock or a splash of lemon juice. Vermouth is another great alternative that works beautifully.

What if I don’t have mascarpone cheese?

If mascarpone isn’t on hand, you can use cream cheese or double cream as a substitute to add that rich creaminess. Each will lend a slightly different texture but keep the luxurious feel intact.

Can I make this risotto dairy-free?

You can easily adapt the recipe by omitting the butter, mascarpone, and Parmesan or replacing them with plant-based alternatives. Use olive oil for sautéing and a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy punch.

How do I know when the risotto is perfectly cooked?

Perfect risotto is creamy with tender rice grains that still have a slight bite to them — what Italians call al dente. It should not be mushy or dry, so taste as you go and adjust cooking time if needed.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about transforming leftovers into a dish that feels brand new, comforting, and luxurious all at once. The Leftover Turkey Risotto Recipe is a perfect example — celebrating the best parts of your turkey dinner in a creamy, flavorful risotto that’s simply irresistible. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and enjoy every cozy, delicious spoonful with friends or family!