There’s something magical about turning your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious meal the next day. For me, the best way to enjoy those leftovers is by making a Turkey Stuffing Sandwich.
It’s simple, comforting, and packed with all the flavors I love from the holiday feast. Whether you’re enjoying it cold or hot, this sandwich brings the warmth and tradition of Thanksgiving straight to your table.
Why the Turkey Stuffing Sandwich Is a Thanksgiving Tradition
After the turkey feast, it’s hard to look at those leftovers and not think about how to reuse them in a fun way. The Turkey Stuffing Sandwich has become a staple in my home because it brings everything I love about Thanksgiving – tender turkey, savory stuffing, and sweet cranberry sauce – all together in one bite. It’s comfort food at its best!
What makes this sandwich even better is that it’s incredibly customizable. Whether you prefer it cold with a crunchy bite or hot with a melty layer of cheese and gravy, the Turkey Stuffing Sandwich can be made to suit anyone’s taste.
The Best Ingredients for a Perfect Turkey Stuffing Sandwich
To get started, let’s talk about the essential ingredients that will make this sandwich shine:
1. Leftover Turkey
The star of the show! If you’ve roasted turkey for Thanksgiving, you’ve got all the leftovers you need for this sandwich. Shred the turkey or slice it thin, depending on your preference. I usually use white meat, but dark meat works just as well for a richer flavor.
2. Stuffing
Stuffing brings that comforting, seasoned texture to the sandwich. You can use your homemade stuffing or any leftovers from the dinner table. Cornbread stuffing, sausage stuffing, or a classic herb stuffing all pair wonderfully with turkey.
3. Cranberry Sauce
A must‑have for me! The sweetness of cranberry sauce balances the savory turkey and stuffing perfectly. You can use homemade cranberry sauce or store‑bought — either works great.
4. Bread
For the bread, I love using sourdough, ciabatta, or whole wheat. Choose a hearty bread that can handle the fillings without falling apart. You can even toast it lightly for extra crunch.
5. Optional Add‑Ons
- Cheese: A slice of Swiss, cheddar, or provolone can make your turkey stuffing sandwich even more satisfying.
- Gravy: For a warmer, savory version, drizzle gravy inside the sandwich, or dip your sandwich into a small side of gravy.
- Lettuce or Greens: If you’re looking for a fresh crunch, add a few leaves of lettuce or arugula.
How to Assemble the Perfect Turkey Stuffing Sandwich
Now that we have all the ingredients, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Follow these steps for a perfect turkey stuffing sandwich every time:
Step 1: Prep Your Bread
Start by slicing your bread into thick, hearty slices. If you like your sandwich crispy, toast the bread lightly. A bit of butter on the outside before toasting adds a rich golden crunch.
Step 2: Layer the Turkey
Place a generous amount of turkey on one slice of bread. You want enough turkey to make each bite flavorful and filling.
Step 3: Add the Stuffing
Layer the stuffing on top of the turkey. I like to press it down lightly so it sticks well to the turkey.
Step 4: Spread the Cranberry Sauce
On the other slice of bread, spread a good amount of cranberry sauce. If you like a tangier kick, feel free to add a bit more cranberry sauce than usual.
Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’re using cheese, add it on top of the stuffing or between layers. If you want to add a few leaves of lettuce or arugula or drizzle gravy, do so now.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Put the two slices of bread together, and your sandwich is ready to serve! You can either cut it in half or leave it whole – whatever works for you.
Hot vs Cold: Which Turkey Stuffing Sandwich Is Better?
One of the things I love about the Turkey Stuffing Sandwich is that you can enjoy it hot or cold depending on your mood.
Hot Turkey Stuffing Sandwich
If you want a warm, comforting version, heat up your sandwich in a pan or press it like a panini. The heat melts the cheese, softens the stuffing, and makes the bread slightly crispy. This is my personal favorite on a chilly day.
Cold Turkey Stuffing Sandwich
For a lighter, no‑cook version, enjoy it cold. This is great for a quick snack or lunch after Thanksgiving. The stuffing adds a perfect texture, and the cranberry sauce brings that sweet, tangy flavor contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make the Turkey Stuffing Sandwich ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, and when you’re ready, assemble the sandwich and enjoy. For hot sandwiches, just heat them up in the pan or grill them.
2. What if I don’t have cranberry sauce?
No problem! You can substitute cranberry sauce with applesauce, fruit chutney, or even fig jam. These alternatives will give your sandwich that sweet contrast you crave.
3. Can I freeze my turkey stuffing sandwich?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing the whole sandwich as the bread can get soggy when reheated. However, you can freeze the turkey and stuffing components separately and assemble the sandwich when you’re ready to eat.
4. How do I make a healthier version of the Turkey Stuffing Sandwich?
To make a lighter version, you can use whole grain bread, low‑fat turkey, and light stuffing (using less butter or broth). You can also skip the cheese and gravy for a healthier option.
Final Thoughts
The Turkey Stuffing Sandwich is a perfect way to turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into a satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it hot or cold, with cheese or without, it’s the kind of sandwich that feels like home. It’s quick, comforting, and customizable, making it the ideal way to keep the spirit of Thanksgiving alive in the days that follow.
For me, the Turkey Stuffing Sandwich is more than just a meal — it’s a reminder to savor the moment, enjoy the food, and keep those family traditions going strong, long after the holiday is over. Try this recipe today, and I guarantee it will become a part of your family’s post-Thanksgiving routine!