Leftover turkey does not have to feel like a chore after the holiday rush. With just a few smart tricks, those containers in the fridge can turn into cozy casseroles, wholesome weeknight dinners, or fresh global flavors.

I tried creative ways to use my Thanksgiving leftovers by making a wild-rice soup, a turkey salad, and a stuffing sandwich to find the best recipe.

Leftover turkey or chicken sitting in the fridge doesn’t have to go to waste. With a little creativity, you can turn those extras into hearty, flavorful meals that are quick to prepare and perfect for busy days.

For the waffles: Preheat waffle maker to medium-high. Combine stuffing, eggs and 1/4 cup cream. If mixture is too dry and not spreadable in the waffle maker pockets, add more cream as needed, until mixture is just wet enough to spread. Generously brush top, bottom and all pockets of waffle maker with oil.