Yummy Ways to Use Up Christmas Leftovers
Now that most of our holiday celebrations are over it's time to figure out what to do with all those leftovers! Sometimes it's an already cooked main, like a yummy Smoked Ham, or maybe it's simply the last remnants from a can of pumpkin puree. Whatever the case may be, none of it needs to go to waste.
One of my favourite ways to enjoy Christmas leftovers is to layer them in a 9x13 pan (meat, gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing) and then freeze it for another day. I love having a taste of Christmas at my fingertips for when I'm in need of some major comfort food. But, if you're one who gets tired of having the whole meal over again or you simply don't have enough leftovers to make a casserole, there's hope for you too.
Below are some ideas to use up the most common Christmas leftovers. Whether you have a lot or just a little I'm sure you'll find something here to suite your fancy.
Using Up Your Leftovers
Ham
- Pot Pies are not just for chicken. Try substituting your leftover ham and turn it into a Quick & Cheesy Ham Pot Pie.
- Have fun with your leftovers and serve these devilled eggs that are cleverly named, Green Eggs and Ham.
- If your parties aren't over yet and you're looking for an easy appetizer why not try this Ham, Scallion, and Pecan Cheeseball?
- Get double the comfort and turn your leftover ham into Cheesy Potato Soup with Ham.
- And, of course there is always the classic Hawaiian Pizza. We like it served on Thin Crust Pizza Dough (pictured above).
Pumpkin Puree
- This Microwave Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal uses only 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree per serving. Meaning it's great for using up that little smidgen that's left in the can.
- Pumpkin Spiced Hot Chocolate is a great way to warm up your chilled bones while letting nothing go to waste. Just be careful you may find yourself opening a can just to make this hot chocolate again.
- This Creamy Pumpkin Pie Dip would make a great dip for a New Years Eve party.
Cranberry Sauce
- If you're on the search for a yummy breakfast recipe try these Leftover Cranberry Sauce Muffins.
- Or, if you have a little more of sweet tooth, how about some Cranberry-Almond Coffee Cake?
- If you are (or know someone) that is gluten free this Gluten-Free Cranberry Loaf would be a great way to use up any leftover sauce.
Mashed Potatoes
- Step out of the ordinary and try some Chili Potato Burritos.
- Or, try a classic with a twist and serve up some Buffalo Chicken Shepherds Pie.
- Nothing beats homemade rolls. Made special with leftover mashed potatoes these Potato Rolls are sure to be a hit.
Stuffing
- Use leftover stuffing as a replacement for stuffing mix such as in this Cranberry & Walnut Stuffed Pork Loin.
- Or, make yet another perfect New Years appetizer with these Stuffed Mushrooms.
Those are just a few of the ways you can make sure no holiday food goes to waste. What is your favourite way to enjoy your Christmas leftovers?