Save This Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Wrap Bar transforms your holiday remnants into an exciting, customizable meal that keeps the celebration going. Setting up this interactive spread lets everyone create their perfect wrap while using up those precious leftovers in a fresh, fun way.
I started making these wrap bars the day after our family gatherings when everyone was tired of traditional leftover plates. Now my nieces and nephews race to be first in line to build their perfect turkey wraps each year.
Ingredients
- Large flour tortillas: provide the perfect vessel for all your fillings. Look for fresh, pliable ones without tears or dry edges.
- Leftover turkey: shines as the protein star. Both white and dark meat work beautifully, so use whatever you have.
- Cranberry sauce: adds that sweet tart contrast that makes Thanksgiving flavors pop. The homemade variety works best with its chunks of real berries.
- Stuffing: brings herby comfort to each bite. If yours has dried out slightly, sprinkle with a bit of broth before reheating.
- Fresh vegetables: add necessary crunch and brightness. Choose the crispest lettuce and ripest tomatoes for best results.
- Gravy: serves as a rich, savory sauce that ties everything together. Warm it thoroughly but not too hot to prevent soggy wraps.
- Cheese options: add creamy richness. Shredded varieties melt slightly against warm ingredients for the perfect texture.
- Condiments: let everyone customize their flavor profile. Quality mayonnaise and mustard make a big difference.
Instructions
- Reheat Your Leftovers:
- Warm turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy to proper serving temperature but not scorching hot. For turkey, sprinkle with a tablespoon of chicken broth before heating to prevent dryness. Heat stuffing in a covered dish to maintain moisture. Stir gravy frequently while warming to prevent skin formation.
- Prepare Fresh Components:
- Wash and thoroughly dry all vegetables to prevent soggy wraps. Slice cucumbers thinly for better distribution of flavor. Halve cherry tomatoes and lightly salt them to enhance their natural sweetness. Slice red onions paper thin so their flavor complements rather than overwhelms.
- Warm The Wraps:
- Heat tortillas briefly in a dry skillet for 15 to 20 seconds per side until they become pliable but not crispy. Alternatively, wrap a stack in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds. Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to stay warm and flexible.
- Create Your Wrap Bar:
- Arrange all components in separate serving bowls in a logical order from wrap to proteins to vegetables to sauces. Use small serving utensils for each item to prevent flavor mixing. Place warmed items together to help maintain temperature.
- Assembly Technique:
- Start with a warm tortilla and spread a thin layer of sauce or condiment across the entire surface. Layer turkey and warmer items first, followed by room temperature items like cheese, then cold ingredients. Leave about two inches empty at the top of the wrap for easier rolling.
- Rolling Method:
- Fold the bottom edge up over fillings, then fold in both sides. Continue rolling upward while keeping sides tucked in for a secure wrap. For extra security, wrap tightly in parchment paper or foil, especially if serving later.
Save My absolute favorite ingredient in these wraps is the cranberry sauce. My grandmother used to make hers with orange zest and a touch of cinnamon, and that bright flavor against the savory turkey and stuffing creates magic in every bite. Last year, my brother created what we now call the "Ultimate Leftover Wrap" with every single component layered perfectly. We still talk about it.
Storage Solutions
The beauty of this wrap bar concept is its flexibility with leftovers. If you have remaining components after your wrap bar meal, store each ingredient separately in airtight containers. Most components will last an additional 3 to 4 days when properly refrigerated. For longer storage, turkey can be frozen in portion sizes for future wraps. Avoid freezing fresh vegetables or assembled wraps as they become soggy when thawed.
Make Ahead Options
You can prepare most components for this wrap bar hours before serving. Slice vegetables, portion sauces into serving bowls, and arrange cheese plates up to 4 hours ahead, covering everything with plastic wrap and refrigerating. About 30 minutes before serving, begin reheating warm components and setting up your display. This approach makes the wrap bar perfect for casual entertaining when you want to minimize last minute preparation.
Creative Variations
Southwest Style transform your leftovers by adding black beans, corn, avocado slices, and salsa to create Mexican inspired wraps. Mediterranean Twist incorporate hummus, feta cheese, olives, and roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean flavor profile. Breakfast Wraps use leftover turkey and stuffing with scrambled eggs and cheese for a hearty morning meal the day after Thanksgiving. Asian Fusion mix turkey with hoisin sauce, julienned carrots, cucumber, and fresh herbs like cilantro and mint for an entirely new flavor experience.
Kid Friendly Versions
For younger guests, create smaller wraps using soft taco sized tortillas. Offer mild flavor combinations like turkey with a light spread of cranberry sauce and cheese. Cut finished wraps into pinwheels secured with toothpicks for easy handling. Consider setting up a separate kids station at a lower height so they can build their own creations. Providing colorful plates and fun names for different combinations keeps children engaged with the meal.
Save This colorful and interactive wrap bar is a delightful way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers. It offers a fun, engaging meal experience for all ages while minimizing post-holiday cooking.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the wraps from getting soggy?
Place wetter ingredients like cranberry sauce or gravy in the center, and layer drier fillings like lettuce and turkey near the outside. Serve immediately after assembling.
- → Can I use other types of bread?
Absolutely! Any pliable flatbread, pita, or gluten-free wrap works well. Just warm them slightly for easier rolling.
- → What other leftovers can I add?
Roasted vegetables, sweet potatoes, or green beans make great additions. Get creative with any holiday sides you have.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Skip the turkey and use extra veggies or a plant-based protein. Include plenty of fillings to keep wraps hearty and flavorful.
- → What sauces pair best with these wraps?
Classic options like cranberry sauce, gravy, ranch, and barbecue sauce add moisture and boost flavor. Mix and match to your taste.