Freezer Feeding: Let's Talk Turkey!

[craft_media_hero]

Okay, I may be jumping the gun on the whole seasonal turkey thing, but stores here already have them marked down to really low prices. Plus, I'm expecting this winter and feel the need to plan my freezer stuffing attack waaaay ahead, lol. I'm planning on buying a couple turkeys from the hfs when they get marked down, and specifically am looking for freezer feeding recipes that use cooked turkey (since they come frozen, and I won't be able to thaw, cut them up, and re-freeze raw). I will probably thaw and roast one whole then cut into pieces OR thaw, cut into pieces and cook separately in different recipes.

So let's consolidate our best freezer cooking turkey ideas!


Here are some that I've thought of:

Turkey stuffing (using cubed cooked breast probably)
Southwest flavored turkey soup
Turkey, peas, and rice packets (would go nicely as a side to a vegetarian main dish)
Shredded turkey enchiladas


What are some turkey recipes that you think will freeze well? What are some that could use the pieced out bird that is maybe cooked in sauce or something and then frozen?

Do you think it might be worth it to buy one that is NOT frozen (do they even come that way?) and grind it up into burger? I have an attachment on my mixer. Or would I have to thaw it, grind it, cook it, then freeze in portions?


Thoughts from freezer feeders much appreciated!

[kitchensqueen]

Turkey standbys at our house for the freezer - 

- turkey soup (we like standard chicken noodle soup style - leave out the noodles in the freezer though and make them fresh when you serve it)

- pulled turkey (shredded turkey in barbecue sauce)

- turkey pot pies

- turkey in gravy (all the little bits and pieces of meat)

- turkey stock

- turkey hash with finely diced potatoes and bacon

- plain frozen wings and drumsticks so we can smoke them on the stovetop smoker with apple or bourbon-soaked oak chips