Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, incredible food. After the feast, many of us are left with an abundance of turkey, and that’s where the Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt comes to the rescue. This delicious sandwich combines succulent turkey with crispy bacon and zesty cranberry sauce, all melted together with gooey cheese. It’s a quick, easy, and delightful way to transform your leftovers into a satisfying meal, especially perfect for those busy days after the holiday.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Servings: 2
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Why Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt
This sandwich is not only incredibly tasty, but it also makes the most of your Thanksgiving leftovers in a unique and delicious way. Packed with protein from the turkey and bacon, it offers a hearty meal that satisfies your hunger without feeling overly heavy. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal taste.
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt Step by Step
Ingredients
2 slices of bread
1/2 cup leftover turkey, shredded
2 slices of bacon, cooked
1/4 cup cranberry sauce
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Butter for spreading
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Place one slice of bread, butter side down, in the skillet.
- Layer the shredded turkey on top of the bread.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the turkey.
- Spoon the cranberry sauce on top of the bacon.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cranberry sauce.
- Place the second slice of bread on top, butter side up.
- Cook the sandwich for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the skillet and let cool slightly before slicing in half.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving leftover turkey bacon melt!
How to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt
This tasty turkey bacon melt pairs wonderfully with a side of potato chips or a fresh green salad. You might also consider serving it with a warm bowl of homemade soup, which complements the sandwich beautifully. For a bit of extra flair, you can drizzle additional cranberry sauce or even a light balsamic glaze over the top before serving.
How to Store Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt
If you have any leftover sandwich, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in a skillet over low heat until warm and crisp. If you’d like to freeze it, make sure the sandwich is completely cool, and then wrap it tightly. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt
- Use your favorite type of bread for a personalized touch, like sourdough or whole grain.
- For added flavor, season the turkey with herbs like thyme or rosemary before layering it in the sandwich.
- If you prefer a touch of heat, add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cranberry sauce.
- Make it extra cheesy by adding a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
- If you like a crunchy texture, toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich.
Delicious Variations of Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt
For a spicy kick, try adding chipotle mayo or pepper jack cheese. You can also create a herbed version by incorporating fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the turkey. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap the turkey for roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian melt.
This Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Bacon Melt is a must-try! You’ll love the comforting flavors and how easy it is to whip up with just a few ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this melt is sure to impress. Give it a try, and savor every delicious bite!
