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Thanksgiving Redux Börek
Leftover Lab

Thanksgiving Redux Börek

July 9, 2026 2 min read Full Chaos 10 ingredients

That dried-out turkey and lumpy mashed potatoes transform into golden, crispy phyllo spirals that'll make you forget the original meal ever happened. Turkish tradition meets American leftovers in the most delicious identity crisis.

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Ingredients

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  • 2 cups leftover turkey, shredded
  • 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
  • 1/2 cup leftover gravy
  • 8 sheets phyllo dough
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 egg yolk for brushing
  • Sesame seeds for topping

The Story & Steps

There's something poetic about watching Thanksgiving leftovers spiral into something completely new. This börek takes everything tired about day-three turkey dinner and wraps it in buttery, crackling phyllo layers that shatter at first bite.

Preparation

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, red pepper flakes, feta, and parsley. Mix until well combined—it should hold together like a cohesive filling.
  3. Lay out one sheet of phyllo and brush generously with melted butter. Place another sheet on top and butter again.
  4. Spread about 1/4 of the turkey mixture along the long edge of the phyllo, leaving a 1-inch border.
  5. Roll tightly into a long cigar shape, then coil into a spiral. Place on the baking sheet.
  6. Repeat with remaining phyllo and filling to create 4 spirals.
  7. Brush the tops with egg yolk and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until deeply golden and crispy.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving—the layers need a moment to set into their crispy-creamy glory.

The Southern Turk Secret: The mashed potatoes act as a binder and create an impossibly creamy interior that contrasts with the shattering phyllo. If your gravy is thick, thin it with a splash of chicken stock before mixing.

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Thanksgiving Redux Börek

Ingredients