Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches has been my favorite way to extend the holiday joy ever since my first post-feast morning. I remember waking up to the delicious scents of coffee and my mom humming in the kitchen, turning yesterday’s feast into something new and exciting. These Thanksgiving breakfast sandwich recipes are truly a revelation, transforming familiar flavors into a delightful morning treat. The combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberry, and fluffy eggs between toasted bread is simply irresistible. This easy ground turkey dinner alternative is perfect when you’re looking for what to do with Thanksgiving leftovers for breakfast. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
I know you’re going to adore these Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches just as much as I do! They’re not just a meal; they’re a morning celebration of the previous day’s feast. Here’s why I think you’ll be making them year after year:
- They offer an incredible flavor combination, blending savory turkey and sweet cranberry into one delicious bite.
- These sandwiches are incredibly quick to assemble, making for an easy Thanksgiving leftover breakfast even on a busy morning.
- It’s a fantastic way to utilize all those delicious holiday remnants, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
- This recipe is budget-friendly, stretching your holiday meal into another satisfying dish.
- They’re packed with protein, keeping you full and energized throughout your Black Friday shopping or family activities.
- Everyone in the family, from kids to adults, will eagerly devour these tasty sandwiches.
- It’s such an easy Thanksgiving leftover breakfast that anyone can whip it up with minimal effort.
- You get to enjoy the comforting flavors of Thanksgiving in a whole new and exciting way.
Ingredients for Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating these incredible Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches. I love how simple it is to transform what’s already in my fridge into a fresh, new meal. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to make this delightful turkey stuffing cranberry sandwich breakfast:
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil – for toasting the bread and cooking the eggs. I usually opt for butter for that extra richness.
- 4 slices brioche bread or challah bread – these slightly sweet, rich breads provide the perfect sturdy base for your sandwich.
- 4 large eggs – the fresher, the better! These will be scrambled to fluffy perfection.
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream – a splash of dairy makes the scrambled eggs extra tender and moist.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – season your eggs just right to complement the savory turkey.
- 1/2 cup leftover cooked turkey, shredded or diced – this is where the magic happens! Any kind of leftover turkey works beautifully in these Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
- 1/4 cup leftover stuffing – the savory, herby stuffing adds incredible texture and flavor to your breakfast sandwich.
- 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce – a dollop of sweet or tart cranberry sauce is essential for that classic Thanksgiving taste.
- 2 slices cheddar cheese or preferred cheese – I find cheddar melts wonderfully, but feel free to use your favorite.
- Optional: gravy for dipping or drizzling – if you have any leftover gravy, it’s a game-changer for these Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
Making these delightful Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches is surprisingly easy, and I promise you’ll love the process as much as the result! It’s a perfect way to transform your holiday remnants into a brand-new, satisfying meal. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a fantastic breakfast in no time.
- Step 1: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the skillet warms up, prepare your bread. Toast the 4 slices of brioche or challah bread in the skillet until they are beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. The aroma of toasting bread instantly makes my kitchen feel cozy! Once toasted, set the bread aside on a plate.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs with 2 tablespoons of milk or cream, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. I like to whisk until the yolks and whites are fully combined and slightly frothy. This ensures fluffy scrambled eggs, which are crucial for the best Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
- Step 3: Pour the egg mixture into the same skillet you used for the bread. Cook, stirring gently, until the eggs are scrambled and cooked through but still moist, usually about 3-4 minutes. You want them tender, not dry. This is a key step in how to make Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches truly delicious.
- Step 4: Now it’s time to assemble your sandwiches! Take two slices of your toasted bread. On each, layer half of the scrambled eggs, followed by half of the 1/2 cup of shredded or diced leftover cooked turkey. Next, add half of the 1/4 cup of leftover stuffing, pressing it down slightly.
- Step 5: Spoon 1 tablespoon of cranberry sauce over the stuffing on each sandwich half. The vibrant color and tartness really brighten up the flavors. Finally, place 1 slice of cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese) on top of each. This is what truly makes a Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwich special.
- Step 6: Cover each assembled sandwich with the remaining two slices of toasted bread. If you prefer your cheese extra melty and your sandwich warm all the way through, you can optionally return the sandwiches to the skillet for about a minute or two per side, just until the cheese is gooey and wonderful.
- Step 7: Serve your delicious Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches immediately. For an extra indulgent touch, I often serve mine with a side of warm gravy for dipping. Enjoy reinventing your Thanksgiving leftovers for breakfast!
Pro Tips for the Best Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
I’ve made my share of these delightful sandwiches over the years, and I’ve picked up a few tricks that truly elevate them. These expert tips will help you create the absolute best Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches every single time, ensuring they are moist, flavorful, and perfectly satisfying. Don’t skip these little details!
- Always warm your leftover turkey and stuffing slightly before assembling the sandwich. This prevents a cold center and helps everything melt together beautifully.
- Don’t be shy with the cranberry sauce! A generous spread provides that essential tangy counterpoint to the rich turkey and stuffing.
- Use a sturdy bread like brioche or challah. It holds up well to all the delicious fillings and won’t get soggy.
- If you have any leftover gravy, definitely serve it on the side for dipping. It’s a game-changer for these Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
What’s the secret to perfect Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches?
The real secret to the best Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches is layering and temperature. Warming the turkey and stuffing separately ensures everything is hot when assembled, leading to perfectly melted cheese and a cohesive, delicious bite. This attention to detail makes all the difference.
Can I make Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches ahead of time?
You can definitely prep components for your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches ahead of time! Cook the eggs and toast the bread, then store them separately. Assemble and warm just before serving for the freshest taste. This makes for an easy Thanksgiving leftover breakfast.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches?
To avoid common pitfalls, don’t overcook your eggs – they should be fluffy and moist. Also, avoid using too much gravy inside the sandwich, as it can make the bread soggy. Lastly, don’t skimp on the cheese; it acts as a delicious binder for your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
Best Ways to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
Once you’ve crafted your delicious Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches, it’s time to think about serving them to truly complete the holiday experience. I find that presentation and complementary sides can elevate this simple breakfast into something truly special. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy these fantastic leftover holiday breakfast sandwiches.
For a classic approach, serve your sandwich with a side of warm, leftover gravy for dipping. The rich, savory gravy adds an extra layer of comfort that perfectly complements the turkey and stuffing inside. I also love pairing these sandwiches with a simple fruit salad. The fresh, bright flavors of berries, grapes, or melon provide a lovely contrast to the hearty sandwich, making for a well-rounded and satisfying breakfast. Another excellent option is a small bowl of cranberry sauce on the side, allowing family members to add even more of that tangy sweetness if they desire. These serving suggestions ensure your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches are enjoyed to their fullest.
Nutrition Facts for Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of these amazing Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches. It’s good to be informed, especially after a big holiday meal! Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving, keeping in mind that actual values can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoying these delicious leftover holiday breakfast sandwiches doesn’t mean sacrificing awareness.
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Cholesterol: 350mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
How to Store and Reheat Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
I know sometimes you might make a few extra, or just want to enjoy your delicious Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches later. Proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty! First, allow any assembled sandwiches to cool completely to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation which can make your bread soggy.
For refrigeration, wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, these make fantastic Thanksgiving morning leftover recipes for the freezer! Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is simple. From the fridge, you can warm them in a microwave for 30-60 seconds, or for a crispier result, in a preheated oven (350°F/175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Frozen sandwiches should thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, or you can reheat directly from frozen in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. These Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches reheat wonderfully, making them a convenient breakfast option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches
Can I use different types of bread for Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches?
Absolutely! While I love brioche or challah for their richness, you can certainly use other breads. Sourdough, whole wheat, or even a sturdy Texas toast work well for your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches. Just make sure it’s a bread that can hold up to all the delicious fillings.
What if I don’t have all the traditional Thanksgiving leftovers?
No problem at all! The beauty of these Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches is their flexibility. If you don’t have stuffing, you can skip it or add a hash brown patty. Missing cranberry sauce? A dollop of fruit jam or even a slice of apple can add a nice sweetness. This is a great way to figure out what to do with Thanksgiving leftovers for breakfast, even if you only have a few items.
Can I make these Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches vegetarian?
Yes, you can! To make a vegetarian version of these Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches, simply omit the turkey. You can substitute it with a plant-based sausage patty, sautéed mushrooms, or even some roasted sweet potato. It’s an excellent option for what to do with Thanksgiving leftovers for breakfast for all diets.
What are some creative additions to my Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches?
I love getting creative with these! Consider adding a fried egg on top for extra richness, or a slice of crispy bacon for a salty crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like sage or thyme can also enhance the Thanksgiving flavors in your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Variations of Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches You Can Try
I always encourage you to get creative in the kitchen, especially when dealing with such versatile ingredients! These Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches are perfect for experimentation. Here are a few creative Thanksgiving leftover breakfast ideas to inspire you to mix things up and find your new favorite:
- The “Sweet & Savory” Twist: Instead of traditional brioche, try using leftover sweet potato biscuits or even waffles as your bread base. The subtle sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory turkey and cranberry, creating an exciting flavor profile for your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
- “Open-Faced” Delight: For a lighter option, serve your sandwich open-faced on a single slice of toasted bread. Top with all the fillings, then broil briefly to melt the cheese and crisp up the turkey. It’s a beautiful way to present your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
- “Spicy Kick” Version: If you love a little heat, add a dash of hot sauce to your scrambled eggs or mix some finely diced jalapeños into your stuffing. A slice of pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar will also give your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches an extra zing!
- “Gravy Lover’s Dream”: While I mentioned gravy for dipping, you can also spread a thin layer of warmed gravy directly onto one of your bread slices before assembling. It adds an incredible richness and moisture directly into your Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches.
Amazing Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches: 550 Calories
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious breakfast with these easy-to-make Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches. This recipe turns classic holiday flavors into a fresh and satisfying morning meal, perfect for the day after the feast.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 4 slices brioche bread or challah bread
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup leftover cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1/4 cup leftover stuffing
- 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce
- 2 slices cheddar cheese or preferred cheese
- Optional: gravy for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
- Heat butter or olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Toast the brioche or challah bread slices until golden brown. Set aside.
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs with milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the egg mixture into the same skillet and scramble until cooked through.
- Assemble the Thanksgiving leftover breakfast sandwiches: On two slices of toasted bread, layer half of the scrambled eggs, then half of the leftover cooked turkey.
- Top with half of the leftover stuffing and a tablespoon of cranberry sauce.
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top.
- Cover with the remaining two slices of toasted bread.
- Optionally, warm the sandwiches in the skillet for a minute or two per side until the cheese is melted.
- Serve your Thanksgiving breakfast sandwich immediately, with gravy for dipping if desired. Enjoy these Thanksgiving leftover breakfast sandwiches.
Notes
- Feel free to customize your Thanksgiving leftover breakfast sandwiches with other holiday favorites like mashed potatoes or green bean casserole.
- For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce to your Thanksgiving leftover breakfast sandwiches.
- These Thanksgiving leftover breakfast sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but components can be prepped ahead.
- If you don’t have brioche or challah, any sturdy bread works well for these Thanksgiving leftover breakfast sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 350mg
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