Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich: Ultimate Comfort Food

Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich – just hearing those words evokes a feeling of warmth, comfort, and pure culinary bliss. After the grandeur of a holiday feast, there’s an undeniable magic in transforming those cherished leftovers into something equally spectacular, yet delightfully straightforward. I truly believe that this sandwich isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of abundance, a delicious encore to a memorable gathering. While its precise origin as a “sandwich” might be humble, its cultural significance is deeply rooted in North American post-Thanksgiving traditions, offering a savory continuation of the holiday spirit long after the main event.

People absolutely adore this dish for countless reasons. Firstly, the harmonious blend of tender, succulent turkey and herbaceous, perfectly seasoned stuffing creates an irresistible textural and flavor contrast. Add a touch of cranberry sauce for that tangy brightness and perhaps a drizzle of warm gravy, and you have a symphony of flavors that is both satisfyingly rich and incredibly comforting. It’s the ultimate convenience food when you have all the components ready, making it a beloved solution for a hearty lunch or a fuss-free dinner. This iconic Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich takes all the best elements of a holiday meal and bundles them into an easy-to-handle, immensely flavorful package that is simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

For me, a truly magnificent Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich is all about generous portions and warm, comforting flavors. Here’s what I typically gather to make about two truly epic sandwiches, or four more modest ones:

• Leftover Cooked Turkey: About 1 to 1.5 pounds (approximately 450-675g) of sliced or shredded turkey. Breast meat is classic, but a mix of dark and white is absolutely divine for added moisture and flavor. If you don’t have leftovers, you can quickly pan-fry or bake 1 pound of thinly sliced fresh turkey breast or deli-style turkey for this.
• Leftover Stuffing (or Dressing): Around 3 to 4 cups (approximately 700-950g). This is the heart of the sandwich! I love a good herb-filled bread stuffing, but any type you enjoy will work beautifully. Again, if you’re not using leftovers, a quick stovetop stuffing mix can be prepared according to package directions.
• Gravy: About 2 cups (approximately 480ml) of hot turkey gravy. This is non-negotiable for me! It ties everything together. If you’re short on gravy, you can easily make a quick batch from a packet or scratch using turkey drippings or broth and a roux.
• Cranberry Sauce: ½ to ¾ cup (approximately 120-180g) of whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce. This adds a crucial touch of tang and sweetness that really elevates the Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich. Don’t skip it!
• Bread: 8 slices of sturdy bread. My favorites are sourdough, brioche, potato bread, or even a good quality white bread that can stand up to all the fillings and the grilling process. Avoid anything too thin or delicate.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons (approximately 60g) of unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for the pan if needed. This is for toasting the bread to golden perfection.
• Optional Additions:
  • A Splash of Chicken or Turkey Broth: If your turkey or stuffing seems a little dry, a tablespoon or two can work wonders.
  • Crispy Fried Onions: For an extra layer of texture and savory goodness.
  • Cheese: A slice of provolone or Swiss cheese can be melted on the turkey for a different spin.

Gathering and Preparing Your Components

My philosophy for the perfect Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich starts with ensuring all your components are warm, flavorful, and ready to go. Even if you’re starting with delicious leftovers, a little attention to detail here makes all the difference.

1. Reheat or Prepare the Turkey:
   • If using Leftover Turkey: This is my preferred method! I gently reheat the sliced or shredded turkey. My best tip for keeping it moist is to place the turkey in an oven-safe dish, add a tablespoon or two of turkey or chicken broth, cover it tightly with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until just heated through. Alternatively, you can gently warm it in a skillet over low heat with a tiny bit of broth, stirring occasionally. You don’t want it to dry out, so be gentle!
   • If preparing Fresh Turkey: If you’re making this sandwich outside of the holiday season, or just don’t have leftovers, thinly sliced turkey breast works wonderfully. I like to quickly pan-fry it. Season 1 pound of thinly sliced turkey breast (about ¼-inch thick) with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and perhaps a touch of poultry seasoning. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until cooked through and lightly golden. Remove from the pan and slice or chop into sandwich-friendly pieces. Keep it warm.
2. Reheat or Prepare the Stuffing:
   • If using Leftover Stuffing: For me, the stuffing needs to be warm and ideally have some lovely crispy edges. If it’s a bit dense from the fridge, I’ll break it up a little. I like to reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a tablespoon of butter, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through and develops some nice crispy bits. You can also warm it in the microwave (covering it with a damp paper towel to prevent drying) or in the oven alongside the turkey. If it seems a bit dry, a splash of broth will bring it back to life.
   • If preparing Fresh Stuffing (Quick Method): If you’re making a quick stuffing, follow the package directions for stovetop preparation. Aim for a slightly firmer consistency so it holds up well in the sandwich. You want it warm and ready.
3. Heat the Gravy:
   • For Leftover Gravy: Gently warm your turkey gravy in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it’s simmering gently and completely hot. If it’s too thick, you can whisk in a little bit of chicken or turkey broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
   • For Fresh Gravy (Quick Method): If you need to make a quick gravy, whisk 2 tablespoons of flour into 2 tablespoons of melted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, cooking for 1-2 minutes until a paste (roux) forms. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken or turkey broth, bringing it to a simmer. Cook, stirring, until it thickens to your liking. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep it hot!
4. Prepare the Cranberry Sauce: If your cranberry sauce is chilled, let it come closer to room temperature, or even give it a brief warm-up in a microwave for 15-30 seconds. A slightly warm cranberry sauce is just divine on this sandwich.

Hot tip: The key to a truly outstanding Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich is ensuring all these fillings are piping hot before they even hit the bread. This way, when you grill or bake the sandwich, you’re just focusing on toasting the bread and melding the flavors, not trying to heat a cold interior.

Building Your Glorious Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich

Now comes the fun part, assembling our masterpiece! This is where we create layers of flavor and texture that make the Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich so incredibly satisfying.

1. Butter the Bread: Take your 8 slices of sturdy bread. Generously butter one side of each slice. This buttered side will be the exterior of your sandwich, ensuring a beautiful golden-brown, crispy crust when grilled. Lay four of these buttered-side-down onto a clean surface – these will be your bottom slices. The remaining four buttered-side-up slices will be the tops.
2. Layer the Turkey: On each of your four bottom bread slices (butter-side down), arrange a generous layer of your hot, prepared turkey. I like to make sure it covers the entire surface of the bread, going almost to the edges. Don’t be shy with the turkey; this is the star of the show!
3. Add the Stuffing: Next, gently spoon a generous portion of your warm stuffing over the turkey. Gently flatten it slightly so it forms an even layer. I usually aim for about ¾ to 1 cup of stuffing per sandwich. The texture contrast here is fantastic – soft turkey, then hearty stuffing.
4. Introduce the Cranberry Kiss: Now, for that essential tangy counterpoint! Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce over the stuffing. You can spread it gently, or leave it in delicious dollops. This layer is crucial for balancing the rich, savory flavors of the turkey and stuffing, giving our Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich that signature holiday taste.
5. Top it Off: Take your remaining four slices of bread, butter-side facing up, and carefully place them on top of your layered fillings. Gently press down on each sandwich to slightly compress the ingredients. This helps everything hold together and ensures even cooking.

A little piece of advice: Don’t overfill the sandwich to the point where it becomes unmanageable, but don’t be stingy either. We’re aiming for a hearty, substantial sandwich that still holds its structure. The careful layering ensures every bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors.

Grilling or Baking for Perfection

Now that our beautiful sandwiches are assembled, it’s time to transform them into hot, golden, crispy wonders. You have a couple of excellent options for cooking your Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich, each yielding slightly different but equally delicious results.

1. The Skillet Method (My Favorite for Crispiness):
   1. Preheat your skillet: Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works beautifully here) over medium heat. You want it hot enough to toast the bread but not so hot that it burns before the inside is warmed through.
   2. Add extra butter (optional but recommended): If your bread wasn’t heavily buttered, or for extra richness, you can add another tablespoon of butter or a swirl of olive oil to the hot skillet.
   3. Grill the sandwiches: Carefully place 1-2 sandwiches in the skillet, buttered-side down. You don’t want to overcrowd the pan.
   4. Apply gentle pressure: Using a spatula, gently press down on each sandwich. This helps ensure good contact with the pan and creates a more compact sandwich with a beautifully even crust.
   5. Cook the first side: Cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until the bottom slice of bread is deeply golden brown and crispy. Peek underneath to check the color.
   6. Flip and repeat: Carefully flip the sandwiches to the other side. Cook for another 4-6 minutes, pressing gently, until that side is also golden brown and crispy.
   7. Ensure internal warmth: The goal isn’t just a crispy exterior, but a piping hot interior. If your fillings weren’t super hot to begin with, or if you prefer a very warm sandwich, you can reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side. This will create a little steam and help the heat penetrate without burning the bread. The cheese, if using, should be beautifully melted.
2. The Oven Method (Great for Multiple Sandwiches or Softer Toasting):
   1. Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. Prepare baking sheet: Place your assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet. You can line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
   3. Bake for warmth: Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the sandwiches are heated through and the bread is lightly toasted.
   4. Achieve golden crust: For a crisper, more golden crust, you can carefully flip the sandwiches halfway through. For an even richer exterior, after about 10 minutes, you can remove them, brush the top with a little more melted butter, and then return them to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or even a quick broil (watch carefully!).
   5. Consider foil: If you’re concerned about the bread getting too hard or just want a softer toast, you can loosely cover the baking sheet with foil for the first 10 minutes of baking, then uncover for the last few minutes to lightly crisp.

Regardless of your chosen method, the goal is a gloriously golden, toasted exterior with a hot, comforting, and perfectly melded interior. The aromas filling your kitchen right now should be absolutely intoxicating, a clear sign that your Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich is nearly ready!

Serving Your Masterpiece

Congratulations! You’ve successfully crafted what I believe to be one of the most comforting and satisfying sandwiches known to humankind. Now, let’s present your Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich in all its glory.

1. Rest (Optional but Recommended): After cooking, I like to let my sandwiches rest on a cutting board for just a minute or two. This allows the internal heat to redistribute slightly and prevents everything from spilling out immediately when you cut into it.
2. Slice with Care: Using a sharp, serrated knife, carefully slice each sandwich in half, either straight down the middle or diagonally from corner to corner. Diagonal cuts always feel a little more gourmet, don’t they? The cross-section should reveal all those beautiful, warm layers of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
3. The Gravy Shower: This is the moment! Transfer your sliced sandwiches to individual plates. Now, generously ladle that hot, luscious gravy directly over the top of the sandwich halves. Don’t be shy here; the gravy is what truly transforms this from a mere sandwich into a decadent, knife-and-fork experience. The bread will soak up some of that wonderful flavor, and every bite will be moist and rich.
4. Garnish and Serve Immediately: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives can add a lovely touch of color, if you’re feeling fancy. Serve your Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich immediately, while it’s still piping hot and the gravy is steamy.
5. Suggested Accompaniments: While this sandwich is a meal in itself, it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad to cut through the richness, or perhaps a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes (extra gravy, anyone?). Sometimes, I’ll even serve it with an extra dollop of cranberry sauce on the side for those who want an additional burst of tang.

Each bite of this Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich should be a harmonious blend of savory turkey, herbaceous stuffing, sweet-tart cranberry, and rich, comforting gravy, all encased in perfectly toasted bread. It’s a nostalgic hug, a culinary masterpiece, and definitely worth every single effort. Enjoy every glorious mouthful!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed through the simple yet profoundly satisfying creation of what I truly believe is one of the most comforting dishes you can whip up, especially when those holiday cravings hit or you’re simply looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug. This recipe for the Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich isn’t just about combining ingredients; it’s about crafting an experience, a moment of pure, unadulterated deliciousness that transports you straight to your fondest memories of feasts and family gatherings. It’s a genius way to transform perfectly good leftovers into something entirely new and exciting, preventing food waste while simultaneously delighting your taste buds.

I genuinely believe this sandwich is an absolute must-try for so many reasons. Firstly, its simplicity is deceiving; the magic truly lies in the marriage of tender, savory turkey, moist, herbaceous stuffing, and a comforting layer of gravy, all nestled between slices of your favorite bread. It’s comfort food personified. Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile. While the core concept remains the same, you have endless opportunities to make it your own. For instance, imagine adding a generous dollop of homemade cranberry sauce directly inside the sandwich for that perfect sweet-tart counterpoint. Or perhaps, a thin slice of provolone or Swiss cheese, melted just so, for an extra layer of gooey goodness. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of bread – a rustic sourdough can add a lovely tang, while a brioche bun can elevate it to a gourmet level of richness.

When it comes to serving suggestions, the classic approach is always a winner. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or a vibrant green bean casserole would beautifully complement the rich flavors of your sandwich, making it feel like a full-blown holiday meal in miniature. For those looking for something a little lighter, a crisp garden salad with a simple vinaigrette can cut through the richness wonderfully, offering a refreshing balance. And let’s not forget about the gravy! A little extra gravy for dipping your sandwich is never a bad idea; in fact, I’d argue it’s practically essential. You could also serve it alongside some sweet potato fries for a fun, casual diner feel. For an even more indulgent twist, consider making it an open-faced sandwich, piling everything high and drenching it in extra gravy – a true feast for the eyes and the stomach.

Beyond the classic rendition, consider these variations to truly make it your signature dish. How about adding a layer of crispy fried onions for texture and a hint of sweetness? Or perhaps a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick to your comfort food. If you’re a fan of a panini, pressing your assembled sandwich in a panini maker or a hot skillet with a weight on top will give you an incredibly satisfying crunch and melty interior. You could even incorporate a layer of crisp bacon for an ultimate savory experience. This recipe is not just about following instructions; it’s about inspiring creativity in your kitchen and using those wonderful leftovers to their full, delicious potential. It truly embodies the spirit of resourceful, delicious home cooking.

So, please, don’t just read about this delightful creation; roll up your sleeves and give this Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich recipe a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s more than just a quick meal; it’s a moment of culinary bliss waiting to happen. Once you’ve experienced the magic, I would absolutely love to hear from you. Did you add your own unique twist? What were your favorite serving suggestions? Please share your experiences, photos, and any brilliant variations you come up with in the comments below or tag me on social media. Your culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to see what deliciousness you create!

Frequently Asked Questions:

What kind of turkey is best for a Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich?

For the absolute best results, I recommend using leftover roasted turkey, whether it’s from a whole turkey, a turkey breast, or even turkey thighs. The natural moisture and flavor from roasted turkey are perfect. If you don’t have leftovers, you can quickly cook some turkey breast slices or use good quality deli-sliced turkey that you warm up.

Can I use store-bought stuffing for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade stuffing always has a special place in our hearts, using good quality store-bought stuffing (either pre-made or a mix you prepare) is a fantastic shortcut. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and moist, as that’s key to the sandwich’s success.

How do I reheat a Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich?

The best way to reheat this sandwich is in a skillet on medium-low heat. This allows the bread to get crispy again while the interior warms through without becoming soggy. You can also use a toaster oven or even a regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covering it loosely with foil to prevent the bread from drying out too much. Microwaving is an option for speed, but it can make the bread soft and less desirable.

What’s the best bread to use for this sandwich?

This is largely a matter of personal preference, but I find that sturdy breads work best to hold up to the fillings and gravy. Sliced white bread, potato bread, sourdough, or even a hearty brioche are all excellent choices. Avoid very thin or delicate breads that might fall apart.

Can I freeze leftover Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich components?

You can definitely freeze the leftover turkey and stuffing separately for future sandwiches. Just make sure they are in airtight containers or freezer bags. When you’re ready to make a sandwich, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat and assemble as directed. I don’t recommend freezing the assembled sandwich as the bread can become soggy upon thawing.

How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

If stored properly in an airtight container, the leftover components (turkey, stuffing, and gravy) will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always ensure they are cooled completely before refrigerating.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this sandwich?

Yes, you can! Substitute the turkey with a plant-based turkey alternative or even some roasted portobello mushrooms. Use a vegetarian stuffing and a mushroom-based or vegetable gravy. The core concept of a warm, comforting sandwich with savory fillings translates beautifully to a vegetarian option.

Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich: Ultimate Comfort Food

The Hot Turkey And Stuffing Sandwich is an ultimate comfort food, transforming cherished holiday leftovers into a spectacular and satisfying meal. This sandwich celebrates abundance, offering a savory continuation of the holiday spirit. It’s beloved for its harmonious blend of tender turkey, herbaceous stuffing, tangy cranberry sauce, and warm gravy, all bundled into an easy-to-handle, immensely flavorful package.

Prep Time
20 Minutes

Cook Time
15 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
2 to 4 servings

Ingredients

• 1 to 1.5 lbs Cooked Turkey, sliced or shredded
• 3 to 4 cups Leftover Stuffing or Dressing
• 2 cups Hot Gravy (or for quick gravy: 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp flour, 2 cups hot beef broth)
• ½ to ¾ cup Cranberry Sauce (whole berry or jellied)
• 8 slices Sturdy Bread (sourdough, brioche, potato bread)
• 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter, softened (plus extra for pan)
• Optional: Splash of Beef Broth (for moistening turkey/stuffing)
• Optional: Crispy Fried Onions
• Optional: 1 slice Provolone or Swiss Cheese per sandwich

Instructions

1. Step 1
   If making gravy from scratch: In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tbsp flour; cook for 3 minutes until the raw flour smell is gone. Gradually whisk in 2 cups hot beef broth (or turkey/chicken broth if preferred) until creamy. Add gravy flavor/color if desired, season to taste, and keep warm over low heat. If using leftover gravy, gently warm in a saucepan until simmering.
2. Step 2
   Gently reheat sliced or shredded turkey: place in an oven-safe dish with 1-2 tbsp beef broth, cover, and warm at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or gently in a skillet. Reheat stuffing: microwave until hot, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying, or warm in a skillet with butter. Bring cranberry sauce to room temperature or warm briefly.
3. Step 3
   Butter one side of each of the 8 bread slices; this buttered side will be the exterior. Place 4 slices butter-side-down. Layer hot turkey, then a generous portion of warm stuffing (¾ to 1 cup per sandwich), then 1-2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce. Top with the remaining 4 bread slices, butter-side-up. Gently press down on each sandwich.
4. Step 4
   Choose your method: Skillet (recommended for crispiness): Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add extra butter if desired. Place 1-2 sandwiches, pressing gently. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, and the internal fillings are piping hot. Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and bread is lightly toasted. Flip halfway for even browning.
5. Step 5
   Let cooked sandwiches rest on a cutting board for 1-2 minutes. Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice each sandwich in half (diagonally or straight). Transfer to individual plates. Generously ladle the hot gravy directly over the top of the sandwich halves. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve immediately, while piping hot, with optional sides like a simple salad or extra cranberry sauce.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.