21 Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich Recipes Everyone Will Love

Thanksgiving dinner is delicious, but the leftovers might be just as exciting! If your refrigerator is filled with roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, gravy, and cheese, you have everything you need to create incredible sandwiches the next day.

These 21 Thanksgiving leftover sandwich recipes transform holiday favorites into warm paninis, crispy grilled sandwiches, hearty turkey melts, open-faced sandwiches, and creative cranberry combinations. Whether you prefer a classic turkey sandwich or something indulgent with stuffing and gravy, there’s an idea here for every craving.

The best part? Most of these Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches take less than 20 minutes to prepare, making them perfect for easy lunches, casual family dinners, and relaxed meals during the holiday weekend.

1. Classic Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Sandwich

Nothing beats a classic Thanksgiving turkey sandwich layered with tender turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and creamy mayonnaise. This traditional combination brings all your favorite holiday flavors together between slices of toasted bread.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2 sandwiches

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough or sandwich bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 1/2 cup leftover stuffing
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 slices Swiss cheese, optional
• 2 tablespoons warm turkey gravy
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions

1. Spread mayonnaise on the inside of each bread slice.
2. Warm the turkey and stuffing separately until steaming hot.
3. Layer the turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and Swiss cheese over two slices of bread.
4. Drizzle a little warm gravy over the filling, if desired.
5. Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices.
6. Butter the outsides of the sandwiches.
7. Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the sandwiches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
8. Slice in half and serve immediately.

Serving tip: Use thick slices of sourdough to keep the sandwich from becoming soggy. Serve with pickles or a small green salad.

2. Hot Turkey and Gravy Sandwich

This hot turkey sandwich is ideal when you want something warm and comforting after Thanksgiving dinner. Tender turkey is piled onto toasted bread and covered with rich gravy for a simple, satisfying meal.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices thick white or sourdough bread
• 2 cups cooked turkey, sliced or shredded
• 1 cup leftover turkey gravy
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, optional

Instructions

1. Toast the bread until lightly golden.
2. Pour the gravy into a saucepan and warm it over medium-low heat.
3. Add the turkey and black pepper.
4. Stir gently until the turkey is steaming hot and evenly coated in gravy.
5. Place two slices of toast on each plate.
6. Spoon the turkey and gravy mixture over the toast.
7. Garnish with parsley if desired.
8. Serve immediately while the bread is crisp and the gravy is warm.

Serving tip: Add a scoop of leftover mashed potatoes on the side for a comforting open-faced turkey dinner.

3. Thanksgiving Turkey Cranberry Grilled Cheese

Sweet cranberry sauce and savory turkey make an excellent pairing with melted cheese. This grilled cheese sandwich has crisp, buttery bread on the outside and a warm, gooey filling inside.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 16 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 1 cup cooked turkey, shredded
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 4 slices sharp cheddar or provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional

Instructions

1. Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.
2. Turn the bread over and spread cranberry sauce on the unbuttered sides.
3. Add turkey and two slices of cheese to each sandwich.
4. Spread a little Dijon mustard over the turkey if desired.
5. Close the sandwiches with the buttered sides facing outward.
6. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
7. Cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese melts.
8. Rest for a minute before slicing.

Serving tip: Use sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor or provolone for a milder, creamier melt.

4. Leftover Stuffing and Turkey Panini

Turn leftover stuffing into a hearty panini with turkey, cheese, and a touch of cranberry sauce. Pressing the sandwich creates a crisp exterior and helps the cheese melt into the filling.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–8 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices ciabatta or rustic bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 1/2 cup leftover stuffing
• 2 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or softened butter
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, optional

Instructions

1. Slice the bread horizontally if using rolls.
2. Spread cranberry sauce and optional Dijon mustard over the inside of the bread.
3. Layer turkey, stuffing, and provolone cheese on the bottom halves.
4. Close the sandwiches and brush the outsides lightly with olive oil or butter.
5. Heat a panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Press the sandwiches for 4–6 minutes until crisp and the cheese has melted.
7. If using a skillet, cook over medium heat and press gently with a spatula, flipping once.
8. Cut in half and serve warm.

Serving tip: If the stuffing is dry, moisten it with a spoonful of gravy before adding it to the sandwich.

5. Turkey, Bacon, and Avocado Sandwich

For a fresh twist on holiday leftovers, combine turkey with crispy bacon, creamy avocado, lettuce, and tomato. The result is a satisfying sandwich that feels different from a traditional Thanksgiving meal.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices multigrain or sourdough bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 4 slices cooked bacon
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• 4 tomato slices
• 2 lettuce leaves
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Toast the bread lightly.
2. Spread mayonnaise over one side of each slice.
3. Layer turkey, bacon, avocado, tomato, and lettuce over two slices.
4. Season with black pepper.
5. Close with the remaining bread slices.
6. Press gently and cut each sandwich in half.
7. Serve immediately while the bread is crisp.

Serving tip: Add a little lemon juice to the avocado if you’re preparing it a few minutes before serving.

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6. Turkey Reuben Sandwich with Swiss Cheese

This turkey Reuben-inspired sandwich combines Thanksgiving turkey with tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing. It offers a savory, slightly tangy alternative to sweet cranberry-based sandwiches.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices rye bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained well
• 3 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
• 2 tablespoons softened butter

Instructions

1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Spread Thousand Island dressing on the opposite side.
3. Layer turkey, Swiss cheese, and sauerkraut over two slices of bread.
4. Close the sandwiches with the remaining slices, buttered sides facing outward.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Cook the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and the cheese melts.
7. If needed, cover the skillet briefly to help the cheese melt.
8. Slice and serve warm.

Serving tip: Drain the sauerkraut thoroughly to prevent soggy bread. A little extra dressing on the side adds flavor.

7. Open-Faced Turkey and Mashed Potato Sandwich

This open-faced sandwich transforms leftover turkey and mashed potatoes into a comforting meal inspired by a traditional holiday dinner. Thick toast supports a generous layer of potatoes, turkey, and gravy.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 thick slices bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 1 cup leftover mashed potatoes
• 3/4 cup turkey gravy
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped parsley, optional

Instructions

1. Toast the bread until crisp.
2. Warm the mashed potatoes in a saucepan or microwave-safe dish, adding a little milk if needed.
3. Heat the gravy in a saucepan until hot.
4. Warm the turkey with a little gravy until steaming hot.
5. Place one slice of toast on each plate.
6. Spread mashed potatoes over the toast.
7. Arrange the turkey over the potatoes.
8. Pour warm gravy over the top and garnish with parsley.

Serving tip: Add leftover roasted green beans or peas to the side for a complete meal.

8. Turkey Apple Cheddar Sandwich

Crisp apple slices, sharp cheddar, and leftover turkey create a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. This sandwich is especially good with sourdough or whole-grain bread.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices whole-grain or sourdough bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 1 small crisp apple, thinly sliced
• 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• A handful of arugula or baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon butter, optional

Instructions

1. Mix the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
2. Spread the mixture over the bread slices.
3. Layer turkey, apple slices, cheddar, and arugula over two slices.
4. Close the sandwiches.
5. For a cold sandwich, slice and serve immediately.
6. For a warm sandwich, butter the outside and grill in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
7. Cook until the cheese melts and the bread is golden.

Serving tip: Choose a crisp apple such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. The slight tartness balances the rich turkey and cheddar.

9. Turkey Pesto Mozzarella Sandwich

Give Thanksgiving turkey an Italian-inspired makeover with pesto, fresh mozzarella, and tomato. This sandwich is flavorful, easy to assemble, and delicious toasted or served cold.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5–7 minutes
Total time: 17 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 ciabatta rolls
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1 medium tomato, sliced
• A handful of baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon olive oil, optional

Instructions

1. Slice the ciabatta rolls horizontally.
2. Spread pesto on the cut sides of the bread.
3. Add turkey, mozzarella, tomato, and spinach.
4. Drizzle lightly with olive oil if desired.
5. Close the rolls and place them in a preheated panini press.
6. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the bread is crisp and the mozzarella softens.
7. If using a skillet, cook over medium-low heat and turn once.
8. Serve warm.

Serving tip: Pat the tomato slices dry before assembling the sandwich to reduce excess moisture.

10. Leftover Turkey Sliders with Cranberry Sauce

Mini turkey sliders are perfect for feeding a family or serving at a casual gathering during Thanksgiving weekend. Soft rolls, turkey, cheese, and cranberry sauce create small sandwiches that are easy to share.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders

Ingredients

• 12 Hawaiian rolls or small dinner rolls
• 2 cups cooked turkey, thinly sliced
• 6 slices Swiss or provolone cheese, halved
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
• 3 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon poppy seeds, optional

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Slice the rolls horizontally without separating the individual rolls.
3. Place the bottom half in a baking dish.
4. Spread cranberry sauce over the bottom rolls.
5. Layer turkey and cheese evenly across the rolls.
6. Place the top half of the rolls over the filling.
7. Mix the melted butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and optional poppy seeds.
8. Brush the mixture over the tops of the rolls.
9. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese melts and the tops are golden.
11. Separate the sliders and serve warm.

Serving tip: Keep the turkey layer even so each slider gets a generous amount of filling. These are ideal with a bowl of leftover soup.

11. Turkey and Brie Cranberry Melt

Creamy Brie and tangy cranberry sauce turn leftover turkey into an elegant sandwich. This combination works beautifully on crusty bread and makes an excellent lunch for the day after Thanksgiving.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 16 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices French bread or sourdough
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 4 ounces Brie cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 tablespoon softened butter
• A handful of arugula, optional

Instructions

1. Spread cranberry sauce on the inside of two bread slices.
2. Add turkey and Brie.
3. Add arugula if desired, then close the sandwiches.
4. Butter the outsides of the bread.
5. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Grill the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden.
7. Cover the skillet briefly if necessary to help the Brie melt.
8. Let rest for a minute, then slice and serve.

Serving tip: Brie has a rich texture, so pair this sandwich with a simple green salad or sliced fresh fruit.

12. BBQ Turkey Pulled Sandwich

Turn leftover turkey into a smoky, tangy sandwich by tossing it with barbecue sauce. Serve it on toasted buns with crunchy coleslaw for a quick meal that tastes completely different from Thanksgiving dinner.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup chicken or turkey broth
• 4 burger buns
• 1 cup prepared coleslaw
• 1 tablespoon butter, optional
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place the shredded turkey in a skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add barbecue sauce and broth.
3. Stir gently until the turkey is coated.
4. Heat for 5–7 minutes until steaming hot, adding a splash of broth if needed.
5. Lightly toast the burger buns.
6. Spoon the barbecue turkey onto the bottom halves.
7. Top with coleslaw and close the buns.
8. Serve immediately.

Serving tip: Use a smoky or honey barbecue sauce depending on your preferred flavor. Add pickles for extra crunch.

13. Turkey Monte Cristo Sandwich

This Monte Cristo-inspired sandwich combines turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese between slices of bread dipped in an egg mixture and cooked until golden. A light dusting of powdered sugar and cranberry sauce creates a sweet-savory finish.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices thick sandwich bread
• 1 cup cooked turkey, sliced
• 4 slices ham
• 4 slices Swiss cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Cranberry sauce for serving
• Powdered sugar, optional

Instructions

1. Layer turkey, ham, and Swiss cheese between two pairs of bread slices.
2. Whisk the eggs and milk in a shallow bowl.
3. Dip each sandwich briefly into the egg mixture, coating both sides without soaking the bread excessively.
4. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
5. Cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side.
6. Lower the heat if the bread browns before the cheese melts.
7. Check that the filling is steaming hot.
8. Slice in half and serve with cranberry sauce. Dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.

Serving tip: Serve with fresh fruit for brunch or a light lunch.

14. Turkey Ranch Club Sandwich

A turkey ranch club sandwich combines leftover turkey with bacon, tomato, lettuce, and creamy ranch dressing. Layered between toasted bread, it’s a hearty option for anyone craving a classic deli-style lunch.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 6 slices sandwich bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 4 slices cooked bacon
• 4 tomato slices
• 2 lettuce leaves
• 3 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 2 slices cheddar cheese, optional
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Toast the bread slices until lightly golden.
2. Spread ranch dressing on one side of each slice.
3. On the first slice, layer turkey, tomato, and lettuce.
4. Place a second slice of bread on top, dressing-side down, then add bacon and cheese.
5. Finish with the third slice of bread, dressing-side down.
6. Repeat to make the second sandwich.
7. Secure each sandwich with toothpicks if desired.
8. Cut into halves or quarters and serve immediately.

Serving tip: Use a sturdy bread that won’t collapse under the layers. Add avocado for extra creaminess.

15. Turkey and Caramelized Onion Melt

Sweet caramelized onions and melted cheese pair beautifully with leftover turkey in this warm, savory sandwich. It takes a little extra time to cook the onions, but the rich flavor is worth it.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices sourdough bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 4 slices provolone or Gruyère cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar, optional
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook for 15–18 minutes, stirring regularly, until soft and golden.
3. Add balsamic vinegar if desired and cook for another minute.
4. Layer turkey, caramelized onions, and cheese over two bread slices.
5. Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread.
6. Toast in a clean skillet over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
7. Cook until the bread is golden and the cheese melts.
8. Serve warm.

Serving tip: Prepare the onions ahead of time to make this sandwich quicker to assemble.

16. Turkey Caprese Sandwich

This fresh sandwich pairs turkey with mozzarella, tomato, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It is a lighter alternative to rich casseroles and gravy-heavy leftovers.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes, optional
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 ciabatta rolls
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Slice the ciabatta rolls horizontally.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the cut sides.
3. Layer turkey, mozzarella, tomato, and basil on each roll.
4. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
5. Add black pepper to taste.
6. Close the sandwiches and serve cold, or place them in a panini press for 4–5 minutes.
7. If heating, cook until the bread is crisp and the cheese is warm.
8. Serve immediately.

Serving tip: Fresh mozzarella and tomatoes release moisture, so assemble the sandwich shortly before serving.

17. Turkey and Egg Breakfast Sandwich

Leftover turkey is a delicious addition to a breakfast sandwich. Add a fried egg, cheddar cheese, and a toasted English muffin for a filling breakfast the morning after Thanksgiving.

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 13 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 English muffins, split
• 1 cup cooked turkey, thinly sliced
• 2 large eggs
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon mayonnaise or Dijon mustard, optional
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Toast the English muffins until golden.
2. Melt a little butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the eggs to your preferred doneness, ensuring the whites are fully set.
4. Add the turkey to the skillet and heat until steaming hot.
5. Place cheese on the toasted muffin bottoms.
6. Add the warm turkey and cooked egg.
7. Spread mayonnaise or mustard on the top halves if desired.
8. Close the sandwiches and serve immediately.

Serving tip: Add a few slices of avocado or tomato for a fresh twist.

18. Turkey Buffalo Ranch Sandwich

If you enjoy bold flavors, this buffalo turkey sandwich offers a spicy change from traditional holiday leftovers. Tender turkey is coated in buffalo sauce and balanced with cool ranch dressing and crisp lettuce.

Prep time: 8 minutes
Cook time: 7 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 2 sandwich rolls
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 3 tablespoons buffalo sauce
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 2 lettuce leaves
• 4 tomato slices, optional
• 2 slices provolone cheese, optional

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the shredded turkey and buffalo sauce.
3. Stir until the turkey is evenly coated and steaming hot.
4. Toast the sandwich rolls lightly.
5. Spread ranch dressing over the cut sides.
6. Divide the buffalo turkey between the rolls.
7. Add lettuce, tomato, and optional cheese.
8. Close the sandwiches and serve immediately.

Serving tip: Adjust the buffalo sauce to suit your spice preference. Serve with celery sticks and extra ranch dressing.

19. Turkey and Roasted Vegetable Sandwich

Leftover roasted carrots, squash, Brussels sprouts, or peppers can add wonderful flavor to a turkey sandwich. A creamy spread and toasted bread bring everything together.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 4 slices whole-grain or sourdough bread
• 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 1 cup leftover roasted vegetables, sliced
• 2 slices provolone cheese
• 2 tablespoons hummus or mayonnaise
• 1 handful baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon olive oil, optional

Instructions

1. Warm the roasted vegetables in a skillet or microwave until hot.
2. Toast the bread lightly.
3. Spread hummus or mayonnaise over the bread slices.
4. Layer turkey, roasted vegetables, provolone, and spinach over two slices.
5. Add a light drizzle of olive oil if desired.
6. Close the sandwiches and grill for 3–4 minutes per side if you prefer melted cheese.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Serving tip: Slice larger roasted vegetables into thin pieces so the sandwich is easier to bite into.

20. Turkey, Cream Cheese, and Cranberry Roll-Up Sandwich

These turkey roll-ups are a convenient option for lunchboxes, light meals, or a casual holiday buffet. Cream cheese balances the tangy cranberry sauce, while turkey provides a savory filling.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: None
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4 roll-ups

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups cooked turkey, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Spread an even layer of softened cream cheese over each tortilla.
2. Add a thin layer of cranberry sauce.
3. Arrange the turkey slices over the sauce.
4. Add baby spinach and a sprinkle of black pepper.
5. Roll each tortilla tightly.
6. Slice in half diagonally or into smaller pinwheels.
7. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Serving tip: If the cranberry sauce is very runny, drain off excess liquid before spreading it over the cream cheese.

21. Ultimate Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich

This ultimate Thanksgiving sandwich brings together turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, and cheese for the full holiday experience in every bite. It’s an indulgent option for anyone who wants to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner all over again.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2 large sandwiches

Ingredients

• 4 thick slices sourdough bread
• 2 cups cooked turkey, sliced
• 1 cup leftover stuffing
• 1/2 cup mashed potatoes
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 2 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
• 1/2 cup turkey gravy
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Warm the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy separately until steaming hot.
2. Spread cranberry sauce over two slices of bread.
3. Layer the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and cheese over the cranberry sauce.
4. Drizzle a small amount of gravy over the filling, taking care not to soak the bread.
5. Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices.
6. Butter the outsides of the bread.
7. Toast in a skillet over medium-low heat for 3–4 minutes per side.
8. Cover the skillet briefly if necessary to help the cheese melt.
9. Slice carefully and serve immediately with extra gravy on the side.

Serving tip: This sandwich is very filling, so use sturdy bread and serve it with a simple salad or a small bowl of soup.

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How to Build the Perfect Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwich

A great leftover sandwich needs the right balance of bread, protein, sauce, texture, and flavor. These simple tips help prevent soggy bread and make every bite delicious.

Choose sturdy bread

Sourdough, ciabatta, rye, brioche, and thick sandwich bread work well for holiday fillings. Toasting the bread adds texture and helps it hold up against moist ingredients.

Warm the filling separately

Heat turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and gravy before assembling a hot sandwich. This makes it easier to bring the filling to a safe temperature without burning the bread.

Balance sweet and savory flavors

Cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with turkey and cheese. Apples add crunch and sweetness, while mustard, pickles, or sauerkraut provide tanginess.

Use sauces carefully

Gravy, cranberry sauce, ranch dressing, and mayonnaise add flavor, but too much liquid can make bread soggy. Spread sauces in thin layers and serve extra gravy on the side.

Add a crunchy ingredient

Lettuce, sliced apples, pickles, crispy bacon, or lightly toasted bread can add texture to softer fillings such as mashed potatoes and stuffing.

Best Thanksgiving Leftover Sandwiches for Different Occasions

Occasion	Best sandwich recipes
Quick lunch	Classic turkey sandwich, turkey roll-ups
Cozy family dinner	Hot turkey and gravy sandwich, open-faced turkey sandwich
Cheese lovers	Cranberry grilled cheese, turkey and Brie melt
Casual gathering	Turkey sliders, buffalo turkey sandwiches
Breakfast or brunch	Turkey and egg sandwich, turkey Monte Cristo
Lighter meal	Turkey Caprese, turkey roasted vegetable sandwich
Using lots of leftovers	Ultimate Thanksgiving sandwich, stuffing panini

How to Store and Reheat Thanksgiving Sandwich Ingredients Safely

Thanksgiving leftovers are delicious, but safe storage is essential.

• Refrigerate promptly: Refrigerate turkey, stuffing, gravy, and other perishable leftovers within two hours of cooking or serving. If the temperature is above 90°F, refrigerate within one hour.
• Use refrigerated leftovers within 3–4 days: Store food in covered, shallow containers at 40°F or below.
• Reheat turkey and other cooked leftovers to 165°F: Warm fillings thoroughly before assembling hot sandwiches. Use a food thermometer when possible.
• Keep sandwich components separate: Store bread, vegetables, sauces, and turkey separately to maintain the best texture.
• Freeze extra turkey: If you won’t use the turkey within 3–4 days, freeze it in airtight, labeled portions.
• Don’t leave sandwiches out for extended periods: Refrigerate sandwiches containing turkey, cheese, mayonnaise, or other perishable ingredients within two hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best sandwich to make with Thanksgiving leftovers?

The classic turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sandwich is one of the most popular options. It combines savory turkey, flavorful stuffing, and sweet-tart cranberry sauce. A grilled cheese version or hot turkey and gravy sandwich is also delicious.

2. What bread works best for Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches?

Sourdough, ciabatta, rye, brioche, and thick sandwich bread are excellent choices. Use sturdy bread for sandwiches containing gravy, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, and toast it to help prevent sogginess.

3. Can I use leftover stuffing in a sandwich?

Yes! Stuffing adds a savory, herb-filled flavor to turkey sandwiches. Warm it first, and add a spoonful of broth or gravy if it has become dry.

4. How do I keep a turkey sandwich from getting soggy?

Toast the bread, use sauces sparingly, and keep wet ingredients separate until serving. If you are packing a sandwich for later, place lettuce between the bread and moist fillings to create a barrier.

5. What cheese goes best with Thanksgiving turkey sandwiches?

Swiss, provolone, sharp cheddar, Brie, mozzarella, and Gruyère all pair well with turkey. Swiss and provolone are particularly versatile, while Brie and cranberry make a richer, sweeter combination.

6. Can Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches be made ahead?

Cold roll-ups and some sandwich components can be prepared ahead, but hot grilled sandwiches are best assembled just before serving. Keep the turkey and other perishable ingredients refrigerated, and add tomatoes, lettuce, and sauces close to serving time.

7. How long can leftover turkey be stored in the refrigerator?

Cooked turkey generally keeps for 3–4 days in a refrigerator at 40°F or below. Freeze portions that you won’t use within that period, and discard turkey that has been left at room temperature too long.

8. What can I serve with Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches?

Serve sandwiches with roasted vegetables, a green salad, vegetable soup, sweet potato fries, pickles, or fresh fruit. A bowl of warm soup is especially good with grilled turkey sandwiches.

9. Can I freeze Thanksgiving leftover sandwiches?

It’s usually better to freeze cooked turkey separately and assemble sandwiches later. Lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, and other moist ingredients may change texture after freezing. If freezing a prepared sandwich, choose fillings that freeze well and wrap it tightly.

10. What is the easiest hot Thanksgiving sandwich?

A hot turkey and gravy sandwich is one of the easiest options. Toast bread, warm turkey in gravy until steaming hot, and spoon the mixture over the bread. It takes about 15 minutes and requires very little preparation.

Final Thoughts

These 21 Thanksgiving leftover sandwich recipes show just how many delicious meals you can make from holiday favorites. From classic turkey and cranberry sandwiches to crispy stuffing paninis, cheesy melts, savory sliders, and the ultimate Thanksgiving sandwich, there is something for every taste.

The key is to combine your leftovers in new ways, balance sweet and savory flavors, and choose bread that can hold the filling. With a few simple ingredients, you can turn the day-after-Thanksgiving meal into something your family looks forward to just as much as the original feast.

Save this list for later so you have plenty of easy sandwich ideas ready when Thanksgiving leftovers fill your refrigerator!