Stretch the Feast: Delicious Ways to Use Holiday Leftovers with Beans
The holiday table may be cleared, but the leftovers are just getting started. With a little creativity — and a trusty supply of Camellia beans — you can turn post-Thanksgiving odds and ends into crave-worthy meals that feel completely new. Beans add heartiness, stretch leftovers further, and help transform turkey, ham, or roasted veggies into satisfying dishes that carry you comfortably through the long weekend.
Even better? These recipes are practical, budget-friendly, and help reduce waste — all while delivering big flavor. Whether you’ve got turkey in the fridge, a ham bone waiting to be used, or a tray of roasted vegetables from the big feast, beans are the perfect partner for making the most of every remaining bite.
Below are some of our favorite Camellia Brand recipes re-imagined with holiday leftovers in mind.
Slow Cooker White Bean Turkey Chili
A steaming pot of chili is a smart way to repurpose turkey from the holiday spread. Swap the original recipe’s chicken for shredded turkey, and let Great Northern Beans give this dish body and richness. It’s low-effort, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for busy days.
Turkey & White Bean Soup
This light, nourishing soup is adapted from our shrimp and white bean recipe — just replace shrimp with turkey. White beans add silkiness, while herbs and vegetables keep everything bright and balanced. It’s a wonderful option for easing back into everyday meals.
White Beans with Smoked Turkey & Andouille
Still have leftover smoked turkey legs or wings? This pot of White Beans turns them into an entirely new meal. The smoky depth of the meat infuses every spoonful, creating a dish that’s full of character and Southern comfort.
Southern Large Limas with Ham Hock
If ham was the centerpiece of your celebration, this dish is a natural next step. Creamy Large Lima Beans simmer with a ham hock (or ham bone), creating a bowl that’s deeply satisfying. Serve with cornbread for an easy, wholesome meal.
Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks
Got some ham left from the holiday feast? Let Pinto Beans soak up every bit of flavor as they cook into a rich, velvety dish that’s ideal over rice or next to your favorite greens.
Roasted Veggies with Stewed White Beans & Preserved Lemon
Give your roasted vegetables new life by swapping them in for salmon in this recipe. Paired with stewed White Beans, herbs, and preserved lemon, the veggies become the star of a fresh, colorful dish — a welcome change after a week of heavy eating.
Leftovers Made New, the Camellia Way
Holiday leftovers don’t have to feel repetitive. With Camellia beans in the pantry, you can turn turkey, ham, and vegetables into satisfying, budget-friendly meals that cut down on waste and keep the celebration going. These dishes are warm, flavorful, and perfect for easing back into everyday cooking after the big feast — one delicious bowl at a time.
Q&A
What beans work best with leftover turkey?
Great Northern Beans, Navy Beans, and Cannellini Beans pair beautifully with turkey because they’re mild, creamy, and soak up seasonings well.
Can I freeze leftover-bean dishes?
Yes. Bean soups, stews, and chilis hold up beautifully in the freezer. Store in airtight containers and enjoy for up to three months.
How do I stretch small amounts of leftover meat?
Beans make it easy. Even a cup or two of turkey or ham becomes a full family meal when paired with a pot of beans, vegetables, and your favorite spices.





