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Turkey Cranberry Sandwich – The Sandwich I Dream About

I first fell in love with the Turkey Cranberry Sandwich at a small restaurant tucked inside a community college next to my work. Honestly, I would dream about this sandwich. Not in a weird, “I wake up thinking about turkey” way… well, maybe a little. But the combination of sweet, tangy cranberry sauce, tender turkey, and soft, cozy bread was unforgettable. Every bite felt like a hug — the kind of hug you didn’t know you needed until it showed up on a plate.

Fast forward a few years, and this sandwich has become one of my all-time favorite ways to use leftover turkey. But here’s the thing: it’s not just for Thanksgiving leftovers. You can make it anytime. Cook a turkey breast on the weekend, keep some cranberry sauce in the pantry, and boom — you’ve got a sandwich that’s equally perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fancy Friday lunch.

Why This Sandwich Works

The beauty of the Turkey Cranberry Sandwich is the balance. Sweet cranberry sauce, savory turkey, creamy mayo (or cheese if you’re feeling indulgent), and bread that’s either toasted or buttery soft — it all comes together like magic. It’s cozy, comforting, and hits that sweet-savory spot that makes your taste buds do a happy dance.

And let’s be honest, leftover turkey often gets a bad rap. Dry, boring, kind of sad. But in this sandwich? Leftover turkey becomes a superstar. The cranberry sauce adds brightness, the bread adds comfort, and suddenly what was leftover is the star of the show.

Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sandwich

This turkey cranberry sandwich is the perfect way to use leftover turkey with sweet cranberry sauce, creamy layers, and cozy holiday flavor in every bite.

Prep Time 5

Ingredients

2 slices bread sourdough, whole wheat, brioche, or leftover rolls
4 slices cooked turkey warm or cold
2 tablespoons cranberry sauce jellied or whole berry
2 tablespoons mayonnaise or aioli
Handful of baby spinach or arugula optional
Salt & pepper to taste
Butter if grilling

Instructions

Cold Sandwich (Quick & Easy):
Spread mayo on one side of each slice of bread.
Layer turkey on one slice.
Spoon cranberry sauce over the turkey.
Add cheese and greens if using.
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Top with remaining bread, slice, and enjoy.
Grilled Version (Highly Recommended):
Butter the outside of both bread slices.
Inside layers: mayo → turkey → cranberry sauce → cheese → greens.
Grill in a skillet over medium heat, 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and melty.
Let cool slightly, slice, and try not to burn your mouth because it smells too good 😄

Notes

Optional Upgrades
Add stuffing for a full Thanksgiving-in-a-sandwich vibe
Swap mayo for cream cheese or herbed goat cheese
Add a drizzle of honey mustard
Use a croissant or ciabatta for extra indulgence

A Sandwich for Any Season

The Turkey Cranberry Sandwich isn’t just a holiday fling. It’s a year-round kind of love. Make it with leftover turkey after a small roast, or cook a turkey breast just for sandwiches. Pair it with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or eat it straight from the plate while standing in the kitchen (guilty).

It’s a sandwich that comforts, delights, and makes you believe that leftover meals don’t have to be boring. It’s a little reminder that sometimes, the simplest things — bread, turkey, cranberry sauce — can make you ridiculously happy.

Looking for another Leftover Turkey Recipe? Try my favorite Leftover Turkey Soup Recipe