Turkey Gumbo: A Spicy Twist on Leftovers!

Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Serves: 6

After a weekend of indulging in rich, comforting flavors, this Turkey Gumbo recipe is the perfect way to transform your holiday leftovers into something new and exciting. You’ve already got the foundation—turkey stock and some leftover meat—so let’s spice it up with a bit of Louisiana flair. Packed with smoky andouille sausage, a rich roux, and bold Creole seasoning, this gumbo will breathe new life into your turkey leftovers.

Need direction on how to cook that delicious turkey? Check out our Turkey Workshop Online Cooking Class!  

Ingredients

Base:

• 1⁄2 lb (about 2) andouille sausages (dried or fresh) sliced  

Roux:

• 1⁄4 cup canola oil, vegetable oil or other neutral oil
• 1/4 cup + 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour

Aromatics & Turkey:

• 1 cup diced onions (about 1 small onion)
• 1 cup diced green bell peppers (1 green pepper)
• 1⁄2 cup diced celery (1 rib)
• 1⁄2 cup canned tomatoes
• 2 tsp House Creole Seasoning Mix (see below) or we like this one
• 8 cups turkey stock 
• 2-3 cups diced leftover turkey meat 

Garnishes:

• 2 cups long grain rice, cooked
• 2-3 green onions, chopped 

House Creole Seasoning Mix (once mixed together you will need 2 tsp. for the recipe) 

• 3 tbsp paprika
• 2 tbsp salt
• 2 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
• 2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp white pepper
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

1. Prepare the Creole Seasoning Mix

First, mix together all of the spices listed in the House Creole Seasoning Mix. This blend of paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and herbs will give your gumbo that signature Louisiana flavour.

Note: once mixed together you will need only 2 tsp. for the recipe.  Store the remainder in a sealed container (great on shrimp, fish, rice, chicken...) 

2. Cook the Andouille Sausage

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, cook the sliced andouille sausages over medium heat until browned. This adds a smoky, savory base to your gumbo. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

3. Make the Roux

In the same pot, add the 1⁄4 cup of oil and heat over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour to form a roux.  Switching to a wooden spoon, continue to make the roux by stirring the mixture constantly for about 10-15 minutes over low to medium-low heat or until it turns a deep brown color. This step requires patience, but it’s key to developing the rich flavour base of the gumbo.

4. Add the Aromatics

Once your roux is ready, add the diced onions, green bell peppers, and celery to the pot (careful-- the roux is now really hot!). Season the vegetables with salt and stir and cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Add the canned tomatoes, breaking them up with a wooden spoon and the 2 tsp of House Creole Seasoning Mix. Stir well to combine.

5. Add the Stock and Simmer

Slowly pour in turkey stock.  Bring the mixture to a simmer then reduce heat to medium-low and let it cook, uncovered, for about 20-25 minutes, skimming any foam that rises to the top.  

6. Return the Sausage and Add Turkey

Return the cooked andouille sausage to the pot, along with the leftover cut up  turkey meat. Simmer for another 5 minutes or so, just until the meat is warmed through and the flavours are fully combined.  You don't want to simmer this for too long or the meat will get too stringy.   

7. Serve Over Rice

Ladle gumbo into bowl and garnish with a scoop of freshly cooked long grain rice and a sprinkle of green onions.   Enjoy!

Chef’s Tips for the Best Gumbo

• Don’t rush the roux: Taking the time to brown the roux to a rich, deep color is essential for building that classic gumbo flavour.
• Custom Creole seasoning: Feel free to adjust the heat level of your Creole seasoning mix to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
• Leftover turkey magic: This recipe is a great way to use up holiday turkey, but you can also substitute chicken, shrimp, or even ham.

Pair it with Other Leftover Ideas

If you’re loving the idea of using leftovers creatively, don’t miss our Ham Dinner 2024 post for other fun, flavourful ideas to make the most of your holiday meals.

This Turkey Gumbo is a fantastic way to break away from the traditional post-holiday turkey sandwiches and soups. With its bold Creole seasoning and hearty ingredients, it’s a comforting yet exciting dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and inspired to cook more with your leftovers.