Turning Holiday Leftovers Into Tacos Is a Straight-Up Genius Idea

By Kris Galicia Brown

Two words: Holiday. Tacos. Using scraps from your Christmas or Thanksgiving dinner is a no-fail way to make easy and yummy taco fillings, all wrapped neatly together in a tortilla. You can use anything you’ve got stored in the fridge, but these combos are exceptionally delicious.

First, Prep the Tortillas

What You Need

  • Small taco-sized corn tortillas (use store-bought or make your own)
  • A pat of butter
  • Skillet or pan for toasting and warming tortillas
  • Leftovers of your choosing

    • Pro Tip: Corn tortillas have a great flavor and texture that complements nearly everything. But if you prefer flour tortillas, that works too — you do you.

    To prep the tortillas, heat a pan over medium high heat. Place a bit of butter in the pan and let it melt, coating the bottom. Cook all tortillas on each side until light or golden brown. Place them aside and add your leftovers.

    Flavor Combos

    Going Ham

    Ingredients: ham or pork + sweet potatoes + green beans + chopped red onion

    It may look a little crazy, but trust us — one bite of this sweet and savory taco and you’ll be coming back for more.

    Surfed or Turfed

    Ingredients: beef or fish + mashed potatoes + corn + spinach or kale

    Beef or fish is surprisingly tasty with this combo, but don’t feel like you need to stick to those— any meat will taste great in this leftover taco.

    Meaty Mash

    Ingredients: turkey or chicken + mashed potatoes + crumbled croutons or crumbled potato chips + sriracha

    The same ingredients that make for a solid leftover turkey sandwich also work well in taco form. Don’t skimp on the crumbled croutons or potato chips either — they really amp up the crunch factor of each bite.

    Squashed Turkey (or Chicken)

    Ingredients: turkey or chicken + roasted butternut squash + Parmesan + chopped red onion + cilantro

    Butternut squash is a seasonal favorite, and it just so happens to make a delicious taco. Pair it with chopped red onion and cilantro for a major flavor explosion.

    Bottom of the Barrel

    Ingredients: pork + turkey + sweet potatoes + cranberry sauce

    You can fill out these sweet tacos with couscous, quinoa and rice if you’re craving a little extra oomph.

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    6 Responses to “Turning Holiday Leftovers Into Tacos Is a Straight-Up Genius Idea”

    1. Lorena Sanchez

      Looks good

    2. Linda S Acker

      Great recipes

    3. Wanda

      Looks good going to have to try.

    4. Stella

      Hi

    5. Meg

      Take canned, drained chickpeas/garbanzos and saute with red chile powder. Place on tortilla and top with red onion, cilanto, and shredded cheddar.

    6. Linda Fieguth

      I was a member years ago.