Leftover turkey sandwiches are proof that leftovers don’t have to be boring. Whether you’re creating a warm, open-face masterpiece with stuffing and gravy or keeping it cool with leftover cranberry sauce and crisp lettuce, these leftover turkey sandwich recipes turn holiday extras into next-level meals.
The information provided on this site is based on my personal experience living with alpha-gal syndrome. I consistently cite and link to expert sources, but nothing published on this site should be perceived as medical advice.
Alpha-gal sensitivities vary by person. You should understand your dietary restrictions, making any adjustments needed, and directing any questions to your physician.
Thanksgiving done right means LOTS of tasty leftovers. I’m not embarrassed to admit that I often get more excited about the leftovers than the main event. There’s something magical about standing in my kitchen at midnight, wearing stretchy pants, crafting the most amazing leftover turkey sandwich while everyone else is asleep. And honestly, if you’ve never eaten a turkey sandwich over your kitchen sink at midnight, are you even doing Thanksgiving right?
After years of post-holiday sandwich making (and some regrettable experiments), I’ve learned that turkey sandwiches don’t have to be boring. From breakfast-worthy creations topped with a runny egg to hot, open-faced beauties drowning in gravy, these leftover turkey sandwich recipes transform your holiday extras into something worth every bite.
In This Article
How Long Can I Keep Leftover Turkey for Sandwiches?
Let’s talk safe turkey storage, because spending Black Friday in the bathroom with food poisoning isn’t on anyone’s wish list. According to the USDA, you must handle turkey leftovers properly to keep them safe and delicious. Keep your cooked turkey at 40°F or lower, and use it up within 3 to 4 days. Anything beyond that? It’s time to say goodbye before it overextends its welcome.
For maximum freshness, store your turkey in an airtight container. This locks in the flavor and keeps unwanted fridge smells from invading your prized leftovers. Have you gone overboard and cooked enough turkey to feed a small army? Pop it in the freezer where it’ll stay good for six months. Your future self will thank you when a turkey craving hits in April.
How to Make a Leftover Turkey Sandwich
While you’ll love the delicious turkey sandwich recipes below, a great leftover turkey sandwich doesn’t need a recipe — it just needs your favorite ingredients and a little creativity. The possibilities are endless, whether you’re in the mood for a classic club sandwich, a loaded open-face sandwich, or something totally unexpected.
Here’s how to build your ultimate turkey creation:
Bread Basics
To start, you need a foundation. Sandwich bread, whole-grain bread, or slices of sourdough bread are traditional choices, but why stop there when the world of carbs is your oyster? Get creative with options like waffles, pancakes, tortillas, hero rolls, or a fresh baguette.
Keepin’ It Cool
If you’re going cold turkey (see what I did there?), toasting the bread is non-negotiable. It helps your sandwich hold up against the avalanche of toppings you’re about to unleash on it. Slather on mayo, cranberry sauce, or a dollop of pesto, then layer on your turkey. Use sliced turkey for a neat, tidy sandwich or shredded meat for a rustic vibe. Add extras like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and cheese — omit or use dairy-free, if needed — for a sandwich that’s as fresh as it is flavorful.
Gettin’ Toasty
When comfort food calls, nothing beats a hot turkey sandwich. I build these beauties as open-face sandwiches. Layer your bread base (toasted, always toasted) with turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, and whatever other leftovers are calling your name. Then drown it in leftover gravy. Pop it under the broiler for a few minutes if you want a bubbly, golden perfection.
Like picking your favorite holiday movie, there’s no wrong way to make a leftover turkey sandwich — as long as you keep the storage guidelines above in mind. So mix and match your toppings, spreads, and breads until you find your favorite.
What to Put on a Leftover Turkey Sandwich
When building the best-tasting sandwich, the possibilities are practically endless. Whether you’re a fan of creamy, crunchy, savory, or sweet, there’s a combination out there with your name on it. Here are some ideas to inspire your masterpiece.
Cheese, Please
Every great sandwich starts with the right slice of cheese. For something sharp, go with cheddar. Feeling fancy? Try gooey brie, a schmear of cream cheese, or tangy goat cheese. Swiss cheese also adds a smooth, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with turkey.
Sage Advice: If you’re an alpha-gal who avoids dairy, use Violife’s dairy-free cheddar slices or cream cheese. Another delicious option is Nuts for Cheese’s Un-Brie-Lievable dairy-free alternative to brie.
Spread the Love
Mayo is classic, but why stop there? I keep a special jar of cranberry sauce just for sandwiches (labeled “Do Not Touch — Mom’s Sandwich Stash”). Gravy turns any sandwich into comfort food. And don’t even get me started on pesto — it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth that makes you forget you’re eating leftovers.
Fresh, Crisp, and Cool
After two days of heavy eating, adding some crisp lettuce or peppery arugula to your sandwich isn’t just tasty — it’s practically a public service. Throw on some alpha-gal friendly bacon or sliced avocado if you’re feeling fancy. Or, add some red onion for zip — just maybe skip the onion if you’re heading back to the office. Your coworkers will thank you.
Warm and Comforting
For a hot sandwich, load up the bread base of your choice with your favorite Thanksgiving sides. Think sweet potatoes, leftover stuffing, or mashed potatoes. Smother in warm gravy to create the ultimate comfort food.
Season to Perfection
Don’t forget the little things! A pinch of salt and a dash of pepper can enhance all the flavors to create the best-tasting sandwich. Go one step further by sprinkling a dash of Italian seasoning, or use smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to introduce a subtle heat.
NOTE: Because the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reports that most people with alpha-gal can tolerate “moderate, lean dairy,” some of the recipes below may include butter, cheese, or another dairy product. If you are an alpha gal who avoids dairy, please make a dairy-free substitution. From vegan butter to plant milk cheeses, Miyoko’s is one of my favorite brands. And, even if you can tolerate dairy, I recommend that alpha gals stick with vegetarian cheese.
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Turkey Salad Sandwiches
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Turkey, Egg, and Cheese Sandwich
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Turkey Sliders with Cranberry
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Leftover Turkey Pesto Sliders
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Leftover Turkey Breast Sandwich
More Leftover Turkey Recipes
If you’re wondering, “What can I make with leftover turkey besides sandwiches?” you’ve come to the right place. There are so many alpha-gal friendly options beyond turkey sandwiches and leftover turkey soup! Find additional ideas in these leftover turkey recipes — because turkey leftovers deserve a second act that’s just as satisfying as the first.
