Slow Cooker Leftover Turkey Curry Recipe

Turn your leftover turkey into a mouthwatering slow cooker turkey curry! This easy recipe uses simple spices to create a delicious meal that’s perfect for using up holiday leftovers.

During holidays, I don't mind having a few containers filled with leftover turkey stored in my refrigerator. That means I can do my experiments and turn them into different recipes, like turkey bolognese, air fryer turkey thighs, or turkey tenders, instead of serving the same reheated holiday meal.

This slow cooker leftover turkey curry was one of those ideas when I didn't want my family to recognize it as leftovers. After years of predictable turkey sandwiches, I wanted to create something different that would have everyone excited about post-holiday meals.

My first attempts at repurposing turkey were nothing special—just different sauces or a new way to serve it, but it still tasted like leftovers. Things finally clicked when I stopped trying to disguise it and started leaning into bold flavors instead.

A slow cooker curry turned out to be exactly what it needed, with warm spices and coconut milk, After a few post-holiday test runs, I realized the slow cooker wasn’t just convenient—it gave the turkey time to soak up all those fragrant spices while staying tender.

I just love easy recipes meant to turn your leftovers into something completely new, like with my Texas French toast casserole with leftover turkey. The combination of garam masala, turmeric, cinnamon, and cardamom creates a depth of flavor that makes everyone forget they're eating turkey for the third day in a row. I can quickly prep everything while still recovering from holiday cooking, then let the slow cooker work its magic while I enjoy time with family or tackle the post-celebration cleanup.

If you're ever facing a refrigerator full of holiday leftovers or simply want a comforting, flavorful meal during the very busy season, this curry recipe transforms your turkey leftovers into something amazing. The empty slow cooker at the end of dinner says it all—these aren't leftovers anymore.

Ingredients

• Turkey breast - This is the main protein for the dish, it gives a lean and flavorful base.
• Onions - Finely diced onions add sweetness and depth to the dish. 
• Garlic cloves - Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Ghee - Used for cooking and adding richness to the dish. If you want a dairy-free option, you can substitute with coconut oil or olive oil.
• Garam masala - This spice blend adds warmth and complexity to the dish. If you don’t have garam masala, you can make your own blend using spices like cumin, coriander, and cardamom.
• Turmeric - Adds a vibrant color and earthy flavor. 
• Cumin seeds - These seeds add a warm, nutty flavor. 
• Cinnamon sticks - Used to infuse a warm, sweet flavor into the dish. If you don’t have cinnamon sticks, you can substitute with ground cinnamon, but use less since it is more concentrated.
• Cardamom pods - Crushed cardamom pods add a fragrant, aromatic quality. If you don’t have whole pods, you can use ground cardamom, but again, use a smaller amount.
• Coconut milk - This ingredient adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness to the dish. 
• Crushed tomatoes - Give acidity and depth of flavor. If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use diced tomatoes or tomato puree as a substitute.
• Chicken stock - Used to add moisture and flavor to the dish. 
• Tomato paste - Adds concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce. 
• Tamarind paste - Adds a tangy flavor that balances the dish. If you don’t have tamarind paste, you can substitute with a bit of lime juice or vinegar for acidity.
• Fresh cilantro - Used for garnish, adding a fresh, herbal note. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can omit it or substitute with fresh parsley.

See the recipe card for exact quantities.

Step-by-step Instructions

If you're looking for a comforting and flavorful way to use up leftover turkey, this slow cooker turkey curry is a fantastic option! I love making this dish because it transforms simple ingredients into a rich and aromatic meal that the whole family will enjoy. Just follow these easy steps, and you'll have a delicious curry simmering away, ready to be served with warm basmati rice and naan!

Sauté Onions and Garlic

Begin by heating ghee in a skillet over medium heat. Once the ghee is melted and hot, add the finely diced onions. Sauté the onions for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become golden and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can result to a bitter flavor.

Add Spices

Once the onions and garlic are ready, add the garam masala, turmeric, cumin seeds, cinnamon sticks, and crushed cardamom pods to the skillet. Toast the spices for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. This step helps to release the essential oils in the spices, enhancing their flavors. After toasting, remove the skillet from heat.

Transfer to Slow Cooker

Transfer the sautéed onion and spice mixture to the slow cooker. Add the cubed leftover turkey, crushed tomatoes, coconut milk, chicken stock, tamarind paste, and tomato paste to the slow cooker. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Make sure the turkey is evenly coated with the sauce.

Cook the Curry

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and the turkey to become tender. If you are short on time, the high setting is a good alternative.

Adjust Seasoning

Once the cooking time is complete, check the consistency of the curry. If it is too thick, you can add a little more chicken stock or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Garnish and Serve

Before serving, chop fresh cilantro and sprinkle it over the curry for a burst of freshness. Serve the turkey curry hot with basmati rice and naan bread on the side. This combination makes for a hearty and satisfying meal that makes great use of leftover turkey. Enjoy your dish!

Storage

Store any leftover slow cooker turkey curry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the curry cool to room temperature before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup. If you want to keep the curry for a longer period, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the frozen curry in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it is heated through. You can stir in a little warm chicken stock or fresh coconut milk while reheating. 

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Leftover Turkey Curry

Slow cooker leftover turkey curry makes for a cozy meal that’s easy to throw together, but the right sides can take it up a notch. A bowl of quinoa cucumber salad brings a fresh crunch, while roasted potatoes with broccoli add crispy edges and a hearty bite. For something creamy, green cauliflower bake melts into every bite, balancing out the bold spices of the curry.

For a little sweetness, my grandma’s Russian Jewish carrot tzimmes is slow-cooked until tender, with just the right amount of warmth from dried fruit. If texture is what you're after, roasted carrots with hazelnuts bring a little crunch to the table. Want even more depth? Zucchini curry fits right in, layering on extra flavor without overpowering the dish. And if you're looking for another easy way to make use of leftover turkey, Texas French toast casserole turns it into a sweet, custardy breakfast that comes together with minimal effort.

Recipe