Turkey Cranberry Sandwiches: Delicious Recipes for Your Holiday Feast

Turkey cranberry sandwiches are a delightful combination of flavors that perfectly capture the essence of the holiday season. As someone who has always cherished the traditions of Thanksgiving, I find that these sandwiches not only celebrate the classic pairing of turkey and cranberry sauce but also offer a convenient way to enjoy those beloved flavors long after the festivities have ended. The history of this dish is rooted in American culture, where leftover turkey from holiday feasts is transformed into a delicious meal that brings families together.

What I love most about turkey cranberry sandwiches is their incredible taste and texture. The savory turkey pairs beautifully with the sweet and tangy cranberry sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that is both satisfying and comforting. Plus, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re using fresh ingredients or repurposing leftovers, turkey cranberry sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or sliced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 slices of whole grain or sourdough bread
• 1 cup arugula or spinach (optional)
• Butter for toasting (optional)

Preparing the Filling

Let’s start by preparing the delicious filling for our turkey cranberry sandwiches. This is where the magic happens!

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or sliced turkey with the cranberry sauce. Stir gently until the turkey is well coated with the sauce. This will add a sweet and tangy flavor to our sandwiches.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Use a whisk or a fork to blend these ingredients until smooth and creamy. This mixture will add a rich and creamy texture to our filling.
3. Once the cream cheese mixture is smooth, fold it into the turkey and cranberry mixture. Be gentle to keep the turkey pieces intact. This step is crucial as it combines all the flavors beautifully.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Mix everything until well combined.

Preparing the Bread

Now that our filling is ready, let’s prepare the bread. You can choose to serve the sandwiches cold or toasted, depending on your preference.

1. If you prefer toasted sandwiches, heat a skillet over medium heat. If you want to add a little extra flavor, spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place the bread slices in the skillet, buttered side down, and toast until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the slices and toast the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. If you’re serving the sandwiches cold, simply lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface or cutting board.

Assembling the Sandwiches

Now comes the fun part—assembling our turkey cranberry sandwiches! This is where you can get creative.

1. Take one slice of bread and spread a generous amount of the turkey cranberry filling on top. Make sure to cover the entire slice for maximum flavor.
2. If you’re using arugula or spinach, add a handful on top of the filling for a fresh crunch. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for added texture and nutrition.
3. Top with another slice of bread to complete the sandwich. If you’ve toasted the bread, place the toasted side facing the filling.
4. Repeat the process for the remaining slices of bread and filling until all sandwiches are assembled.

Serving the Sandwiches

Now that our sandwiches are assembled, it’s time to serve them up!

1. Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich in half diagonally or into quarters, depending on your preference. This makes them easier to handle and adds a nice presentation.
2. Arrange the sandwiches on a platter. If you want to make it look extra special, garnish with a few sprigs of parsley or a small bowl of extra cranberry sauce on the side for dipping.
3. Serve immediately, or if you’re preparing them in advance, cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. They can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to make your turkey cranberry sandwiches even more delightful:

• For a bit of crunch, consider adding sliced apples or pears to the filling. They pair wonderfully with turkey and cranberry.
• If you love cheese, try adding a slice of sharp cheddar or brie to the sandwich for an extra layer of flavor.
• For a spicy kick, add a few slices

  Conclusion:

  In summary, these Turkey Cranberry Sandwiches are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their lunch game or impress guests at a gathering. The combination of savory turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and creamy spread creates a delightful balance of flavors that is both satisfying and refreshing. Plus, they are incredibly versatile! You can serve them on your favorite bread, whether it’s whole grain, sourdough, or even a gluten-free option. For a twist, consider adding some fresh spinach or arugula for a pop of color and nutrition, or swap out the turkey for roasted chicken or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch for yourself or a platter for a holiday gathering, these Turkey Cranberry Sandwiches are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—I’d love to hear how you make this recipe your own! Happy cooking! Print
  

  Turkey Cranberry Sandwiches: Delicious Recipes for Your Holiday Feast

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  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x

  Print Recipe

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  Description

  These Turkey Cranberry Sandwiches offer a delicious way to use leftover turkey, combining tender meat with creamy filling and tangy cranberry sauce between your choice of bread. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, they can be served toasted or cold, and are easily customizable with fresh greens or additional toppings.

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  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or sliced
  • 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 8 slices of whole grain or sourdough bread
  • 1 cup arugula or spinach (optional)
  • Butter for toasting (optional)

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  Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or sliced turkey with the cranberry sauce. Stir gently until the turkey is well coated with the sauce.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until smooth and creamy.
  3. Fold the cream cheese mixture into the turkey and cranberry mixture gently to keep the turkey pieces intact.
  4. Add salt and pepper to taste, and mix in chopped fresh parsley if desired.
  5. For toasted sandwiches, heat a skillet over medium heat and spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread.
  6. Place the bread slices in the skillet, buttered side down, and toast until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and toast the other side for another 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  7. For cold sandwiches, lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface.
  8. Spread a generous amount of the turkey cranberry filling on one slice of bread.
  9. If using, add a handful of arugula or spinach on top of the filling.
  10. Top with another slice of bread, placing the toasted side facing the filling if applicable.
  11. Repeat until all sandwiches are assembled.
  12. Cut each sandwich in half diagonally or into quarters for easier handling.
  13. Arrange on a platter and garnish with parsley or a small bowl of extra cranberry sauce for dipping.
  14. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.

  Notes

  • For added crunch, consider adding sliced apples or pears to the filling.
  • Cheese lovers can add a slice of sharp cheddar or brie for extra flavor.
  • For a spicy kick, add a few slices of jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes