Delicious Ways to Use Boxing Day Leftovers

Boxing Day is a time to unwind from the holiday hustle and enjoy time with loved ones. Still, it's also an excellent opportunity to transform all those Christmas dinner leftovers into new and exciting meals. With some creativity, you can repurpose holiday food into fun and delicious treats. Whether planning a casual Boxing Day gathering or seeking creative ways to repurpose your holiday feast, we've got you covered with inspiring ideas and practical solutions. For more Christmas celebration essentials, check out our Christmas Collection for festive décor, tableware, and serving items to make your gatherings stress-free and elegant.

Transforming Christmas Dinner Leftovers into Tasty Meals

When it comes to Boxing Day leftovers, the possibilities are endless. So, don't let your Christmas dinner leftovers go to waste! Here are some tasty and practical ideas to transform your holiday dishes into fresh meals:

Classic Comfort Food Makeovers

Repurposing holiday food can be an easy Boxing Day meal strategy. Here are some clever ways to transform your leftovers:

1. Leftover Turkey Quesadillas

• Shred your leftover turkey and place it between tortillas and cheese, bell peppers, and onions.
• Use a dash of leftover gravy in place of a typical sauce for an extra flavorful twist.
• Crisp the tortillas in a skillet until the cheese melts.

2. Hearty Vegetable Soup

• Combine leftover roasted carrots, potatoes, and parsnips in a simmering stock.
• Add shredded pieces for protein if you have leftover turkey or ham.
• Season with fresh herbs and leftover gravy for a comforting holiday leftover recipe.

3. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Bake

• Combine chopped leftover ham with eggs, cheese, and leftover bread cubes.
• Bake until the mixture is golden and bubbly.
• Serve as a quick brunch option to feed a crowd.

4. Turkey Pot Pie

• Mix leftover turkey, vegetables, and gravy.
• Top with a flaky pie crust or leftover mashed potatoes.
• Bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

5. Festive Fried Rice

• Mix chopped turkey or ham with leftover vegetables, rice, and soy sauce for a quick stir-fry.
• Top with a fried egg for added richness.

Add Festive Flair with Colorful Plastic Dinnerware

Boxing Day might feel slightly more casual than Christmas Day, but that doesn't mean it can't be stylish. Transform your dining table with these colorful dinnerware selections:

Red Dinnerware

• Add a pop of color that complements leftover turkey sandwiches or hearty soups.
• Perfect for continuing the holiday theme.
• Browse our collection of red tableware to keep the festive spirit alive.

Green Dinnerware

• Evokes the natural, vibrant tones of the holiday season.
• Ideal for presentations of vegetable soups or fresh salads from leftover sides.
• Discover our green disposable partyware to create a cheerful tablescape.

Gold Dinnerware

• Lends an air of sophistication to your holiday leftover recipes.
• Pairs well with everything from turkey pot pie to a fancy leftover ham quiche.
• Explore our gold dinnerware collection if you want to add a touch of sparkle to the occasion.

For an elegant way to serve these reinvented leftovers, view our dinnerware collection, designed to make your table look spectacular for any occasion.

Festive Leftover Buffets for Boxing Day Gatherings

Hosting a Boxing Day gathering? Show off your Christmas dinner leftovers in a buffet-style layout that allows guests to help themselves. A buffet is excellent for casual entertaining and encourages guests to mix and match items based on their preferences. Don't forget to keep the holiday atmosphere alive by incorporating traditional Christmas decorations, such as garlands, fairy lights, and even leftover holiday ornaments as centerpieces.

Setting Up a Crowd-Pleasing Leftover Buffet

• Labeling Leftovers: Place small labels or name cards before each dish so guests know what they're sampling.
• Variety is Key: Ensure there's a good balance of main proteins (turkey, ham), side dishes (stuffing, roasted vegetables), and condiments (cranberry sauce, gravy).
• Strategic Arrangement: Group similar dishes together and place condiments near the items that best pair with them.
• Stunning Serveware: Select disposable serving trays or stylish platters to keep the cleanup minimal without compromising presentation.
• Add Dimension: Create height variation using disposable cake stands and risers.

Must-Have Disposable Plates for Buffets

To make your buffet look effortlessly coordinated, consider matching your tableware to the spirit of your gathering. We carry a variety of buffet disposable buffet plates that pair seamlessly with holiday décor:

Plastic Buffet Plates

• Durable and cost-effective option.
• Perfect for handling heavier leftovers such as turkey slices, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
• Browse our plastic buffet plates for designs that blend style and convenience.

Paper Buffet Plates

• Ideal for a casual and fun Boxing Day vibe.
• A great option if you want quick cleanup without the need to wash dishes.
• View our paper buffet plates collection for trendy and eco-friendly patterns.

Eco-Friendly Buffet Plates

• Constructed from biodegradable or compostable materials.
• Allows you to serve festive leftover buffets while being mindful of your environmental impact.
• Shop our eco-friendly buffet plates for a range of sustainable options.

For more tips on how to set up a buffet arrangement that showcases your holiday feast, check out our handy guide on how to set up buffet service for any event.

Easy Recipes for Holiday Leftovers

Looking for fresh ways to use your Christmas dinner leftovers? Create new, exciting dishes that maintain the holiday essence but incorporate unique twists. Sometimes, just the right dash of seasoning or an unconventional combination can give your leftovers a second life.

Quick and Tasty Recipe Ideas

1. Holiday Leftover Pizza

• Spread leftover gravy or cranberry sauce on your pizza crust.
• Top with shredded turkey, ham, vegetables, and plenty of cheese.
• Bake until crispy for a creative spin on Boxing Day leftovers.

2. Stuffing-Stuffed Mushrooms

• Use leftover stuffing to fill mushroom caps.
• Drizzle with a bit of melted butter and bake.
• Top with leftover herbs or cheese for an easy Boxing Day appetizer.

3. Turkey Pot Pie

• Combine leftover turkey, vegetables, and gravy in a pie crust.
• Bake until the crust is golden brown for a comforting meal.

4. Yogurt Parfaits

• Layer cranberry sauce, yogurt, and granola in a glass for a healthy dessert or snack.

5. Sweet Potato Pancakes

• Blend leftover sweet potatoes into pancake batter.
• Serve with whipped cream or maple syrup for a sweet treat.
• A perfect post-Christmas brunch idea to keep the holiday mood going.

For additional inspiration on making the most of your leftover feast, look at these top eleven tips for using your Thanksgiving leftovers. Although the suggestions are tailored toward Thanksgiving, they work wonderfully for Christmas dinner leftovers as well!

Simple Leftover Appetizers from Your Holiday Feast

Not in the mood for big meals? Turn your Boxing Day leftovers into a selection of bite-sized nibbles. Simple leftover appetizers are perfect for a casual night with friends or a low-key family get-together. This is also a great way to sample multiple flavors without feeling overly stuffed.

Bite-Sized Appetizer Ideas

1. Turkey Sliders

• Layer tiny buns with turkey, cheese, and cranberry sauce.
• Top with leftover gravy or a spicy aioli.
• Toast them briefly in the oven for a melty, delicious treat.

2. Mashed Potato Croquettes

• Mix leftover mashed potatoes with a bit of cheese and chopped green onions.
• Shape into small balls and roll in breadcrumbs.
• Fry or bake until golden for a scrumptious holiday leftover recipe.

3. Mini Veggie Tarts

• Use puff pastry to create small tarts filled with roasted veggies and cheese.

4. Ham Pinwheels

• Use leftover ham slices, cream cheese, and chopped veggies.
• Roll them into tortillas and slice them into rounds.
• An easy Boxing Day meal that can be enjoyed any time of day.

5. Caprese Skewers

• Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and mozzarella balls onto toothpicks.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a refreshing and elegant appetizer perfect for any gathering.

To serve these finger foods in style, check out our Appetizer & Salad Plates. These plates come in various sizes and designs, making them perfect for any leftover spread.

Creative Post-Christmas Brunch Ideas

After all the Christmas chaos, hosting a relaxed brunch on Boxing Day is a fantastic way to gather friends or family for a low-stress get-together. Post-Christmas brunch ideas can use sweet or savory leftovers, making your holiday spread even more versatile.

Mouthwatering Brunch Dishes

1. Egg and Turkey Hash

• Combine diced leftover turkey, potatoes, and vegetables in a skillet.
• Crack a few eggs over the mixture and cook until the whites are set.
• Top with cheese and serve with a side of cranberry sauce.

2. Holiday French Toast Bake

• Cube any leftover sweet bread or dinner rolls.
• Soak them in an egg-milk mixture overnight with a touch of cinnamon.
• Bake the next morning for a stress-free dish that wows everyone.

3. Leftover Cranberry Sauce Smoothie

• Blend cranberry sauce with yogurt, a banana, and ice.
• A quick and tart pick-me-up to enjoy after Christmas indulgences.

4. Sweet and Savory Crepes

• Fill crepes with ham and cheese or cranberry sauce and cream cheese.

5. Bread Pudding

• Use leftover bread rolls to make a sweet or savory bread pudding.

For more inspiration to dazzle your guests in wintertime, try these winter brunch ideas to impress your guests. You'll find tips to elevate any gathering into a memorable and relaxing occasion.

Repurposing Holiday Food for Quick and Easy Meals

Sometimes, you just need something fast and satisfying after all the effort poured into the Christmas dinner. Turn your Boxing Day leftovers into meals that come together in minutes, ensuring you can spend more time unwinding and less time in the kitchen.

Quick-Fix Ideas for Busy Days

1. Turkey or Ham Wraps

• Lay out a tortilla or flatbread.
• Fill with leftover meat, vegetables, and your favorite sauce.
• Roll it up tightly, slice it, and enjoy it on the go.

2. Leftover Shepherd's Pie

• Layer leftover vegetables, turkey or ham, and gravy in a baking dish.
• Top with leftover mashed potatoes.
• Bake until the top is golden and the filling is warmed through.

3. Turkey Tacos

• Shred turkey and mix with taco seasoning for a festive twist on tacos.
• Serve with shredded lettuce, cheese, and cranberry salsa.

4. Ham and Cheese Pasta

• Toss leftover ham with cooked pasta, cream sauce, and peas for a creamy dish.

5. Veggie Soup

• Combine roasted veggies with broth and seasonings; blend for a hearty soup.

These effortless meals ensure that your family won't tire of holiday flavors. Instead, you'll breathe new life into all that extra food while saving time and money.

Boxing Day Leftovers: Tips for Storing and Serving

Properly storing your Boxing Day leftovers is crucial for maintaining freshness and flavor. Plus, having the proper containers and serving accessories makes it simple to reheat dishes without compromising presentation.

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

Cool Foods Quickly

• Transfer leftovers into shallow containers for faster cooling.
• This helps prevent bacterial growth and keeps food fresh.

Label Containers

• Write the date on each container to track how long items have been in the fridge.
• This makes planning your Boxing Day meal ideas easier for the following days.

Use Airtight Containers

• Maintain the flavor and texture of your holiday leftover recipes by sealing them properly.
• Covers or plastic lids help keep moisture out and flavor locked in.

Servingware for Leftover Delights

Stylish Serving Bowls

• Perfect for soups and stews loaded with leftover ingredients.
• Consider matching your color scheme to keep the holiday feel alive.
• Browse our disposable serving bowls collection for various shapes, sizes, and finishes.

Durable Serving Flatware

• Sturdy utensils are essential for scooping, slicing, and serving hearty leftover dishes.
• From sleek modern designs to classic holiday-inspired styles, you can find what fits your party mood.
• Discover our serving flatware selection to see an array of elegant options.

Premium Plastic Lids

• Plastic lids are perfect for keeping your dishes covered and fresh, especially if you plan to store leftovers after your gathering.
• Available in various sizes to fit our serving bowls, plates, and trays, they add convenience and are a great way to simplify cleanup.
• Browse our selection of plastic lids to ensure you have everything you need for a stress-free event.

Check out these premium plastic serving supplies for Christmas to keep your holiday tableware game strong.

Disposable Serving Trays: A Convenient Way to Present Leftovers

When hosting a casual Boxing Day gathering or dropping off a plate of goodies to friends, disposable serving trays simplify the process. They let you display your festive leftover buffets with minimal cleanup—ideal for a holiday that's all about relaxing.

Picking the Perfect Disposable Serving Trays

We offer an extensive range of plastic and eco-friendly serving trays to fit any occasion, style, or leftover spread:

Different Colors

• Black: Sleek and modern.
• Clear: Let your holiday leftover recipes take center stage.
• Gold: Adds an elegant sparkle to your Boxing Day spread.
• Natural: Complements a rustic, eco-friendly theme.
• White: Classic choice that easily matches any décor.
• Silver: Shimmering finish to elevate any presentation.

Shapes

• Round: Timeless option for pies, pastries, or a circular arrangement of appetizers.
• Rectangular: Great for laying out meats and side dishes in neatly arranged rows.
• Square: A modern, geometric look for your leftover displays.
• Sectional: Perfect for separating dips, sauces, and small bites in one tray.
• Oval: An elegant option that provides a unique shape for various food items.

Sizes

• From small trays for intimate settings to large party platters for big gatherings.
• Pick a size that accommodates all your Boxing Day leftovers without crowding.

For more inspiration on using trays to display your dishes, see these 10 types of serving trays to help you select the best tray for your needs.

Join the Festive Fun: Share Your Holiday Setups

Even after Christmas Day has passed, the holiday spirit lives on through the creative ways you use and present your Boxing Day leftovers. One of the best parts of the holiday season is seeing how friends and family celebrate in their own unique way—especially when it comes to festive tablescapes and party setups.

Show Off Your Tablescapes and Win Hearts

• Snap pictures of your beautiful dinnerware, leftover dishes, or creative appetizers.
• Share them on social media to inspire others looking for ideas on repurposing holiday food.
• Include our hashtag #SmartyHadAParty so we can see and possibly feature your delightful setups in our future campaigns.
• Let your friends and loved ones in on your holiday leftover recipes—because part of the fun is sharing the season's joy!

We love seeing how our products become part of your celebrations, so let your creativity shine and show us your innovative Boxing Day leftover presentations.

Make the Most of Your Boxing Day Leftovers

Boxing Day may mark the end of the big Christmas festivities, but it can still be a day full of delicious food, laughter, and gathering around the table. By creatively repurposing holiday food, setting up festive leftover buffets, and serving everything in stylish yet convenient dinnerware, you can stretch out the holiday spirit for a bit longer. Whether you're whipping up a cozy stew, crafting easy Boxing Day meal ideas like turkey sliders, or presenting your holiday leftover recipes on elegant disposable serving trays, the key is making each bite as delightful as the day before.

Ready to elevate your holiday hosting? Shop our disposable tableware collections for everything you need to create a festive and stress-free celebration.

Happy Boxing Day and happy feasting!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are some creative ways to use Boxing Day leftovers?

Transform leftovers into soups, sandwiches, casseroles, or festive buffets to keep the holiday spirit alive.

2. How can I repurpose Christmas dinner into a brunch idea?

Use leftover turkey or ham for quiches, breakfast casseroles, or savory waffles.

3. What are some quick and easy recipes for holiday leftovers?

For a simple meal, try making turkey pot pie, ham sliders, or leftover veggie frittatas.

4. How can I set up a festive leftover buffet?

Arrange your leftovers on disposable serving trays with labels for an easy and elegant spread.

5. What appetizers can I make from holiday leftovers?

Create stuffed mushrooms, mini turkey sliders, or cranberry-topped crostini for crowd-pleasing starters.

6. How long can I safely store Boxing Day leftovers?

Properly refrigerated leftovers are safe for 3-4 days. Freeze any extras for long-term use.

7. What tips can help reduce food waste after Christmas?

Plan creative recipes, use airtight containers, and freeze unused portions to enjoy later.

8. Are disposable serving trays eco-friendly options for leftovers?

Look for biodegradable or recyclable trays to serve your leftovers sustainably.