Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich Recipe (with Cranberry and Gouda)

Nothing beats a Turkey Sandwich layered with creamy cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and tender roasted turkey on warm ciabatta rolls. It’s quick, comforting, and the perfect way to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers. Every bite tastes like the holidays all over again—without the stress of cooking a feast.

Why You’ll Love This Turkey Sandwich

This turkey sandwich is the ultimate post-Thanksgiving treat. You get layers of creamy cream cheese, smoky Gouda, and juicy roasted turkey tucked inside toasty ciabatta rolls. The sweet cranberry sauce ties it all together, creating that classic holiday flavor in every bite. It’s rich, satisfying, and ready in under 15 minutes. Plus, it’s completely customizable—you can use flavored cream cheese or even swap in ham for a fresh twist. Whether you’re feeding family or craving something cozy, this sandwich makes leftover turkey feel brand new.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this turkey sandwich brings something special. Ciabatta rolls toast up perfectly crisp outside yet stay soft inside, ideal for holding hearty fillings. Cream cheese adds a velvety layer that balances the smoky Gouda. Mayonnaise helps the rolls brown beautifully under the broiler. Cranberry sauce gives a burst of tangy sweetness that pairs so well with roasted turkey. Finally, a handful of spinach or baby greens adds freshness and crunch. You can easily switch things up—try onion and chive cream cheese or a cranberry-jalapeño blend for extra zing.

Ingredients

• 2 ciabatta rolls
• 6 tbsp soft cream cheese (plain or flavored)
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 6 tbsp cranberry sauce
• 4 slices Gouda cheese
• 3 cups leftover roasted turkey
• 1 cup spinach or baby spring mix

How to Make the Perfect Turkey Sandwich

Step 1 – Prepare the Rolls

Preheat your oven to broil on high and move the rack to the center. Slice your ciabatta rolls in half lengthwise, then set them on a baking sheet. Spread about 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese on the bottom halves. On the top halves, spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. This combo keeps the bread moist inside while helping it toast evenly.

Step 2 – Layer the Turkey and Cheese

Pile your roasted turkey generously over the cream cheese layer. Thick slices work best—they stay juicy and flavorful. Place 2 slices of Gouda on top of the turkey for that smooth, melty finish. Gouda melts beautifully and has a subtle smoky flavor that balances the sweetness of the cranberry sauce later.

Step 3 – Broil Until Melted and Golden

Place the sandwiches (open-faced) under the broiler for about 4–5 minutes. Keep an eye on them so the cheese melts just right and the tops turn a light golden brown. The rolls should feel crisp when you tap them. Broiling brings out the warm, toasty flavor that makes these sandwiches irresistible.

Step 4 – Add Cranberry Sauce and Greens

Once out of the oven, spread 3 tablespoons of cranberry sauce over the top halves. Add a handful of fresh spinach or baby greens on top of the turkey for a refreshing crunch. Then close the sandwiches gently and slice them in half for easy serving. They’re best served hot while the cheese is still gooey and the cranberry sauce slightly warm.

Expert Tips for the Best Turkey Sandwich

To get that perfect texture, choose rolls that can handle the heat—ciabatta or sourdough are great options. You can use mayonnaise instead of butter to achieve that golden crust without tearing the bread. Gouda is the top pick here for flavor, but Swiss or provolone also work well. If you want extra kick, try a flavored cream cheese like cranberry-jalapeño or herb and chive. For something new, add thin apple slices for sweetness or drizzle a little of your homemade savory Thanksgiving gravy before closing the sandwich.

Recipe Notes & Variations

This recipe makes two hearty sandwiches, ready in about 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s best served hot, but you can wrap leftovers in foil and warm them in the oven later. Feel free to swap in ham and apple slices for a different take, or try a cranberry-apple sauce for extra flavor depth. Use whatever bread you have—brioche, sourdough, or baguette all work well. You can even make it kid-friendly by using mild cheddar instead of Gouda. For more festive flavor ideas, check out my honey bourbon cranberry sauce recipe—it’s perfect for sandwiches like this.

FAQs About Turkey Sandwiches

Related Recipes to Try

• Juicy Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe
• Homemade Savory Thanksgiving Gravy
• Festive Cranberry Roll-Ups Appetizer
• Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin
• Garlic Butter Steak and Potatoes

Conclusion

This turkey sandwich turns Thanksgiving leftovers into something completely new—melty, savory, and satisfying. It’s the perfect mix of comfort and flavor that everyone will love. Try it once, and you’ll want it on repeat all holiday season. Don’t forget to share your creation on Pinterest and make it your own with your favorite cheese or sauces.

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