Once the big feast is over, the question becomes: what do you do with all that leftover turkey? Here’s your answer Crispy Thanksgiving Turkey Tacos that turn yesterday’s dinner into today’s fresh, flavorful meal. With crunchy corn tortillas, seasoned shredded turkey, and bright toppings like cilantro, red onion, and cotija or Jack cheese, these tacos are fast, and absolutely irresistible.
It’s the perfect post-Thanksgiving dish: comforting, colorful, and unbelievably easy.
Ingredients
For the Tacos
Toppings
How to Make Them
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil or butter.
Add the shredded turkey, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook 3–5 minutes until warmed through and lightly crisp on the edges.
For perfectly crispy taco shells, heat a shallow layer of oil in a skillet.
Fry each tortilla for 20–30 seconds per side, using tongs to fold it gently into a taco shape.
Drain on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt.
(Or warm the tortillas on a skillet if you prefer soft tacos your choice!)
Fill each crispy tortilla with a generous spoonful of the seasoned turkey.
Top with chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and cotija or Jack cheese.
Finish with a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Serving Ideas
Add a small spoonful of salsa verde or pico de gallo
Serve with leftover Thanksgiving sides reimagined (cranberry salsa, roasted veggie slaw, etc.)
