The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich Recipe

The day after Thanksgiving, people across America gather around their refrigerators and start assembling the most beloved turkey sandwich of the year – the Thanksgiving leftover turkey sandwich This mega sandwich brings together all the best flavors of Thanksgiving into one handheld meal With the right combination of ingredients and preparation, you can make a show-stopping Thanksgiving turkey sandwich that will be the highlight of your leftover meals.

Choosing the Perfect Bread

A great turkey sandwich starts with the right bread. You’ll want a bread that is sturdy enough to handle generous amounts of turkey, gravy, and stuffing without falling apart. Sourdough, whole wheat, and ciabatta are excellent choices. Brioche and challah also work well and add a touch of sweetness Avoid flimsy white bread slices that will disintegrate under the sandwich’s weight

Toast or grill the bread slices first to give them more structure and flavor. This extra crispness helps balance the soft, moist fillings.

Layer Up the Turkey and Sides

Of course, the star ingredient of this sandwich is leftover roasted turkey, preferably both white and dark meat. Sliced about 1/4 inch thick, the turkey provides juicy, savory flavor.

Around the turkey, artfully layer on small amounts of your favorite Thanksgiving sides. Stuffing or dressing adds delightful crunch and seasoning. Dollops of mashed potatoes offer comforting creaminess while cranberry sauce contributes welcome tart sweetness.

Gravy is ideal for moisture – drizzle just enough over the filling to moisten without saturating the bread. And don’t forget the vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or glazed carrots for bright notes.

Spread on the Sauces

An excellent spread or condiment under the turkey layers adds even more moisture and flavor. Whip up compound butters like roasted garlic or chive for a gourmet touch. Aiolis, mustard, or mayo are also excellent turkey sandwich options.

And consider topping the sandwich with more gravy, cranberry sauce, or even something spicy like horseradish sauce or Sriracha for extra excitement.

Add Cheese and Veggies

Want to take your Thanksgiving turkey sandwich up a notch? Throw on some cheese! Sharp cheddar, Havarti, pepper jack, and fontina all pair deliciously with turkey.

Extra veggies also improve the sandwich. Lettuce, tomato, pickled onions, and roasted red peppers add color and crunch. And don’t forget a few peppery arugula leaves or watercress for a bite of bitterness. Herbs like parsley, cilantro, and dill work nicely too.

Heat It Up

Warming up your masterpiece in the oven or a skillet makes it even more comforting and irresistible. Place the assembled sandwich in a 350 degree F oven for 5 minutes to melt the cheese and meld the flavors.

You can also butter the outsides of the bread and pan-fry the sandwich over medium heat until golden brown on both sides. The contrast of crunchy exterior and hot, melty interior is sublime.

Sandwich Inspiration

While leftover turkey sandwiches are a tradition, feel free to get creative and make yours unique! Here are some fun flavor combinations to try:

• Turkey, brie, and apple or pear slices grilled on cranberry walnut bread

• Turkey, pesto mayo, mozzarella, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes on focaccia

• Curry turkey salad with diced apples and golden raisins on croissants

• Thanksgiving stir-fry with turkey, carrots, onion, and cranberries wrapped in warm tortillas

No matter what you stuff between those bread slices, a homemade Thanksgiving turkey sandwich overflowing with love (and gravy!) can’t be beat. savor this tasty tradition and make memories around the leftovers every year.