This Instant Pot turkey stew is one of the most satisfying ways to turn leftover turkey into a completely new, deeply flavorful meal.
Built on homemade turkey broth, warm Middle Eastern spices, and the rich pan drippings from a roasted bird, this stew brings comfort, brightness, and practicality together in one bowl.
The story of this Instant Pot turkey stew actually begins long before anything reached the pressure cooker.
It started with a spatchcocked turkey rubbed generously in a Middle Eastern–inspired blend of cumin, coriander, cinnamon, smoked paprika, turmeric, garlic, lemon zest, and pomegranate molasses.
After marinating for 24 hours, the turkey roasted beautifully, creating pan drippings packed with concentrated flavor—smoky, sweet, citrusy, and savory all at once.
While the turkey roasted, I made a fresh batch of broth using the backbone, neck, heart, and gizzard. Simmered slowly with leek tops, carrots, celery, herbes de Provence, and a splash of apple cider vinegar, the broth became rich, golden, and aromatic.
It set the foundation for a stew that would taste like it simmered for hours, even though the Instant Pot would do most of the work.
When it came time to assemble the stew, the Instant Pot made the process effortless. A quick sauté of leeks, carrots, and celery created a sweet and aromatic base.
From there, I added chopped turkey, four cups of homemade broth, and a full cup of those luxurious spiced pan drippings.
Because the spices were already infused into the drippings, the stew didn’t need any additional seasoning—everything was already built in.
Black beans and corn added a hearty texture, turning the dish into a bowl that’s both filling and wholesome.
After a brief pressure cook, the flavors melded beautifully: the warm spices softened into the broth, the vegetables held their shape, and the turkey absorbed every bit of flavor.
Spoonful Of Rich & Delicious Instant Pot Turkey Stew
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley at the end brightened the entire pot, and a squeeze of lemon or pinch of sumac added a final layer of brightness.
This Instant Pot turkey stew is a wonderful way to give new life to leftover turkey without feeling like you’re eating the same meal twice.
Family Eating Sandwiches Made From Leftover Turkey
It’s warm, fragrant, and layered with spices—exactly the kind of dish that feels right on a cold evening. You can add a splash of cream for richness or keep it light and broth-forward. Either way, it reheats beautifully and makes an excellent next-day lunch.
With crusty bread, warm flatbread, or even a scoop of rice, this stew becomes comfort food at its finest.
And because turkey only finds its way into American kitchens once or twice a year, it feels special without being complicated.
If you’re looking for a comforting stew with depth and brightness, this Instant Pot turkey stew is a standout way to use the leftover turkey many of us cook only occasionally.
Instant Pot Turkey Stew: A Flavor-Packed Leftover Turkey Recipe You’ll Love
3 cups cooked turkey, chopped
1 cup spiced pan drippings – Find
4 cups turkey broth (preferably homemade)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
1 large leek, sliced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch or 1 1/2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon sumac or a squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped for garnish
On ‘Sauté’ mode, heat oil in the Instant Pot. Cook leeks, carrots, and celery for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
Add turkey, black beans, corn, turkey broth, and spiced pan drippings. Stir to combine.
Lock the Instant Pot lid and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 5 minutes. Quick release the pressure when done.
Switch to ‘Sauté’. Stir in the heavy cream (if using). Mix cornstarch or flour with cold water, then stir into the pot. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add a touch of sumac or lemon juice if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
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