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Thanksgiving Leftovers Panini is the best way to turn your holiday meal into something fresh and craveable after the big day. With layers of tender turkey, rich stuffing, cranberry sauce, and melty Muenster cheese, this panini captures every flavor of Thanksgiving in one hot, toasty bite. No more boring leftover plates—these sandwiches are ready in minutes and never waste a single scrumptious side.
I started making these sandwiches for my family the morning after Thanksgiving one year and now everyone actually looks forward to the leftovers as much as the holiday meal itself.
Ingredients
- Ciabatta or sourdough bread: for a sturdy base that grills beautifully look for fresh loaves at the bakery for best texture
- Butter: brings golden crispiness to the bread and makes every bite more luscious use real butter for the richest flavor
- Leftover sliced turkey: the star protein of your sandwich aim for juicy pieces and slice against the grain for tenderness
- Cranberry sauce: adds sweet and tart contrast choose whole berry sauce for more texture or homemade if you have it
- Leftover stuffing or dressing: gives herbal flavor and heartiness press it together a bit to help the sandwich hold its shape
- Muenster cheese: melts easily and adds mild creaminess swap for provolone or Swiss if needed but Muenster is especially buttery
- Leftover turkey gravy for dunking: ties everything together pick gravy that is well seasoned not too salty and heat it gently so it stays smooth
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Warm the turkey gravy and stuffing until heated through
Cut bread into thick even slices for two sandwiches and gather all fillings - Assemble the Sandwiches:
- Butter one side of each bread slice all the way to the edges to ensure even browning
Lay two bread slices buttered side down on your work surface
Add a layer of turkey followed by a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce then a thick layer of stuffing and two slices of cheese for each sandwich
Close the sandwiches with the other bread slices buttered side up - Grill the Panini:
- Preheat a panini press or heavy skillet over medium heat and add a light coating of nonstick spray or a touch more butter if using a pan
Gently press the sandwiches onto the hot surface and close the lid or use a heavy pan to weigh down
Cook for 2 to 4 minutes checking after 2 minutes until the bread is deep golden brown and cheese is melted - Serve:
- Carefully remove the hot sandwiches and slice in half if you like
Serve immediately with warm turkey gravy for dipping
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My favorite ingredient is Muenster cheese because it just melts perfectly and hugs all those savory and sweet layers together. The first time my kids tried this panini they wanted it every year and now it is a cherished day-after-Thanksgiving tradition at our house.
Storage Tips
Keep any extra assembled but ungrilled sandwiches tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to one day. If you have extra turkey or stuffing keep them in airtight containers and make fresh paninis day by day for the best results. Do not freeze these sandwiches after assembly since the stuffing may get soggy but bread and turkey can be frozen separately.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use any sturdy bakery bread like artisan country loaf or even focaccia. Swap Muenster for provolone Swiss or sharp white cheddar. Stuffing can be replaced by leftover mashed potatoes for a creamy twist. For extra brightness add a few fresh spinach leaves or sliced apples inside the sandwich.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve with a steaming cup of turkey gravy for dipping and a side of leftover roasted vegetables. For brunch add a fried egg on top for a hearty meal. This panini also pairs well with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
Cultural Context
Pressed sandwiches like paninis come from Italian traditions but this version is a celebration of American Thanksgiving flavors. It is the kind of recipe that brings people together even after the holiday feast because everyone can pick their favorite fillings and make it their own.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Which bread is best for this panini?
Ciabatta or sourdough work well because they hold up to the hearty fillings and press nicely until crisp.
- → Can I substitute different cheeses?
Absolutely! While muenster is creamy and mild, provolone, mozzarella, or even Swiss are delicious alternatives.
- → Do I need a panini press?
No. A skillet and a heavy pan can create the same crispy, melted effect if you don't have a press available.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
Assembly is quick since ingredients are pre-cooked. Expect to have your hot sandwich ready in less than 20 minutes.
- → What else can I add to the sandwich?
Get creative! Try leftover roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a layer of gravy inside for extra moisture and flavor.