The day after Thanksgiving often feels just as cozy as the holiday itself—but what about all those leftovers? Whether you’ve got roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or cranberry sauce, it’s the perfect opportunity to reinvent your Thanksgiving feast into new and delicious vegan meals.
This guide will show you how to turn your vegan Thanksgiving leftovers into creative, satisfying dishes that taste just as good (if not better) the next day. These recipes are easy, wholesome, and totally plant-based—so you can stay true to your values while cutting down on food waste.
And if you love celebrating your vegan lifestyle in style, check out The Dharma Store—they sell vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton, perfect for spreading compassion long after Thanksgiving dinner is done.
Now, let’s dig into these flavorful, waste-free vegan recipes!
Why Vegan Thanksgiving Leftovers Deserve a Makeover
Thanksgiving leftovers are often treated as an afterthought—but they can actually be the start of something amazing. When you’re cooking vegan, you’re already using wholesome ingredients like grains, legumes, and vegetables. These foods reheat beautifully and mix well into new dishes.
Reimagining your leftovers isn’t just about flavor—it’s also about sustainability. Here’s why repurposing your vegan Thanksgiving leftovers is a win-win:
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Reduces waste: You’ll make the most out of everything you cooked.
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Saves time: Most of the prep is already done—just mix and match.
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Boosts creativity: New combinations bring excitement to the table.
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Saves money: Stretch your holiday budget by reusing what you already have.
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Keeps the gratitude going: Turn one special meal into several comforting ones.
Whether you’re craving something cozy like a casserole or something fresh like a salad, these ideas will help you breathe new life into every leftover bite.
1. Vegan Thanksgiving Leftover Shepherd’s Pie
A classic comfort food that’s perfect for reusing mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
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2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
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1 ½ cups roasted vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, parsnips, etc.)
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1 cup cooked lentils or chickpeas
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1 cup vegetable broth
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon thyme
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F.
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In a skillet, sauté lentils with olive oil, tomato paste, and herbs. Add broth and simmer until slightly thickened.
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Spread the mixture in a baking dish.
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Layer leftover veggies on top, then cover with mashed potatoes.
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Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
Why It Works:
It’s hearty, warm, and uses three common leftovers in one dish. Plus, it freezes well for future meals.
2. Thanksgiving Stuffing Waffles
Give your leftover stuffing a new twist—literally. These savory waffles are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make.
Ingredients:
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2 cups leftover vegan stuffing
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¼ cup vegetable broth
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1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water (flax egg)
Instructions:
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Preheat your waffle maker.
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Combine stuffing, broth, and flax egg until sticky.
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Scoop mixture into waffle maker and cook until crisp and golden.
Serving Tip: Top with mushroom gravy or cranberry sauce for a festive brunch treat.
Why It Works:
It turns a traditional side into a fun and unexpected meal kids and adults will both love.
3. Cranberry Sauce Parfaits
Cranberry sauce doesn’t have to be limited to the dinner table. Layer it into a breakfast parfait for a sweet, tart treat.
Ingredients:
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Leftover cranberry sauce
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Coconut or almond yogurt
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Granola
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Chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
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In a glass, layer yogurt, cranberry sauce, and granola.
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Repeat layers and finish with chopped pecans.
Why It Works:
It’s colorful, refreshing, and makes a light breakfast or dessert that feels indulgent but wholesome.
4. Mashed Potato Pancakes
Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside—these mashed potato pancakes are a perfect savory snack or side.
Ingredients:
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2 cups leftover mashed potatoes
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¼ cup flour (or gluten-free alternative)
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2 tablespoons chopped green onion
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
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Mix all ingredients until dough forms.
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Shape into small patties.
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Fry in a skillet with oil until golden brown on both sides.
Serving Suggestion: Dip in vegan sour cream or ketchup for a satisfying crunch.
Why It Works:
Quick, crispy, and comforting—it’s a great way to use up mashed potatoes while adding texture and flavor.
5. Leftover Veggie & Grain Buddha Bowls
Thanksgiving leftovers make an excellent base for nourishing Buddha bowls.
Ingredients:
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Leftover roasted vegetables
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Cooked grains (quinoa, rice, farro)
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Greens (kale, spinach, or arugula)
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Leftover cranberry sauce (for dressing base)
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1 tablespoon tahini
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1 teaspoon maple syrup
Instructions:
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Mix tahini, cranberry sauce, and maple syrup into a creamy dressing.
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Layer greens, grains, and veggies in a bowl.
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Drizzle with dressing and top with seeds or nuts.
Why It Works:
Fresh, colorful, and balanced—this recipe brings a burst of energy after a heavy holiday meal.
6. Leftover Lentil Loaf Sandwiches
If you made a vegan lentil loaf for Thanksgiving, it’s even better the next day.
Ingredients:
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Slices of leftover lentil loaf
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Vegan mayo or mustard
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Lettuce, tomato, and pickles
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Whole grain or sourdough bread
Instructions:
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Reheat lentil loaf slices in a pan.
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Layer onto bread with your favorite toppings.
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Press lightly and slice in half.
Why It Works:
A hearty sandwich that’s filling, portable, and perfect for the day-after lunch.
7. Sweet Potato & Cranberry Breakfast Muffins
Turn sweet potatoes and cranberry sauce into fluffy, lightly sweetened muffins.
Ingredients:
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1 cup mashed sweet potatoes
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½ cup cranberry sauce
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1 ½ cups flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ cup almond milk
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¼ cup maple syrup
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Mix all ingredients until smooth.
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Scoop into muffin tins and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Why It Works:
It’s a clever way to repurpose sides into a satisfying breakfast or snack that feels completely new.
8. Thanksgiving Leftover Soup
Throw all your favorite leftovers into one pot for a cozy, nourishing soup.
Ingredients:
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Leftover roasted vegetables
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1 cup mashed potatoes (as a thickener)
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4 cups vegetable broth
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1 teaspoon thyme
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½ cup coconut milk
Instructions:
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Combine all ingredients in a pot.
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Simmer for 20 minutes, then blend until smooth.
Why It Works:
It’s rich, creamy, and zero-waste—perfect for warming up after a cold holiday weekend.
9. Savory Stuffed Peppers
Repurpose stuffing, grains, or lentils by using them as a filling for bell peppers.
Ingredients:
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4 bell peppers, tops removed
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2 cups leftover stuffing or grain mix
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½ cup tomato sauce
Instructions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F.
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Mix stuffing with tomato sauce.
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Fill each pepper and bake for 25–30 minutes.
Why It Works:
It’s hearty and beautiful on the plate—ideal for a weekend meal that still feels special.
10. Vegan Thanksgiving Leftover Pizza
Yes, pizza. Use your leftovers as toppings for a creative vegan flatbread.
Ingredients:
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Pizza dough or flatbread
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Leftover mashed potatoes (as a “white sauce”)
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Roasted veggies and stuffing
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A drizzle of gravy
Instructions:
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Spread mashed potatoes on dough.
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Add veggies and stuffing.
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Bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes.
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Drizzle with gravy before serving.
Why It Works:
Comfort food meets creativity—a fun, shareable way to enjoy all your favorite flavors in one bite.
Tips for Storing and Using Leftovers Safely
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Refrigerate quickly: Store leftovers within two hours of cooking.
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Use within 3–4 days: Most vegan dishes keep well but taste best when fresh.
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Label containers: Helps track what’s still safe to eat.
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Freeze for later: Casseroles, soups, and lentil dishes freeze beautifully.
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Reheat properly: Warm to at least 165°F to ensure safety and freshness.
With smart storage and creative thinking, you’ll waste less and enjoy more long after Thanksgiving Day.
Going Beyond the Table: Living the Vegan Message
Veganism isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about mindfulness, compassion, and making choices that reflect your values every day. Repurposing your Thanksgiving leftovers aligns perfectly with those principles. It’s an act of respect for the food, the planet, and the effort that went into making it.
And if you want to carry that same compassionate spirit into your daily life, visit The Dharma Store. Their vegan-themed t-shirts, crafted from organic cotton, make a meaningful statement about living kindly—because what we wear can be just as powerful as what we eat.
Final Thoughts
With these vegan Thanksgiving leftover recipes, you can keep the holiday flavors alive without repeating the same meal twice. From crispy stuffing waffles to hearty shepherd’s pie and bright Buddha bowls, each dish transforms familiar ingredients into something exciting and new.
This year, make your Thanksgiving not just about gratitude—but about creativity and sustainability too. By giving your leftovers a second life, you’re embracing the true spirit of the season: resourcefulness, care, and joy.
So before you toss out those containers in the fridge, open them up and get inspired. Because when it comes to vegan cooking, there’s always another delicious way to say “thank you.”