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Crispy Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Cranberry Panini

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A quick and easy panini recipe that transforms leftover turkey into a crispy, flavorful sandwich with tart cranberry sauce and melty cheese, perfect for holiday meals or anytime you want a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 ounces leftover turkey, sliced thin (white or dark meat)
  • 2 slices fresh bread (sourdough or ciabatta recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2–3 ounces sharp cheddar or Swiss cheese, sliced thin
  • Butter, softened (for spreading on bread)
  • Optional: baby spinach or arugula
  • Optional: thinly sliced red onion
  • Optional: Dijon mustard
  • Optional: mayonnaise or gravy (to moisten dry turkey)
  • Optional: leftover stuffing
  • Optional: toasted pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Slice about 4 ounces of leftover turkey thinly. Slice 2-3 ounces of cheese. If using, thinly slice red onion and wash any greens.
  2. Spread softened butter evenly on one side of two bread slices; this side will be the outside of the sandwich.
  3. Place one slice of bread butter-side down on a work surface. Layer turkey evenly, then spread about 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce over the turkey.
  4. Add cheese slices on top, then any optional greens or onions. Cap with the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
  5. Preheat the panini press to medium heat (around 350°F). If using a skillet, heat over medium.
  6. Place the sandwich in the press or skillet. If using a skillet, press down with a heavy pan or spatula wrapped in foil.
  7. Grill for about 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway if using a skillet, until bread is golden and crispy and cheese is melted.
  8. Check that the cheese is melty and turkey is warmed through but not dried out. Cook a minute longer if needed, watching carefully.
  9. Remove the panini and let it rest for a minute before slicing to help flavors meld and keep the sandwich intact.

Notes

If turkey is dry, toss lightly with mayonnaise or gravy before assembling. Blot cranberry sauce if too watery to avoid soggy bread. Butter on the outside of bread is essential for a golden, crispy crust. Use a weighted object on skillet if no panini press is available. Variations include vegetarian options with roasted squash or mushrooms, spicy jalapeños, gluten-free bread, and seasonal fruit swaps like peach chutney.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey panini, leftover turkey recipe, cranberry panini, holiday leftovers, quick sandwich, easy panini, Thanksgiving leftovers

Find it online: https://rowanrecipes.com/crispy-thanksgiving-leftover-turkey-cranberry-panini-recipe-for-easy-holiday-meals/