Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe

If you’re like me, by the time the morning after Thanksgiving rolls around, you’re staring at a fridge overflowing with turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce, wondering how to breathe new life into those delicious leftovers. Well, I’m excited to share my absolutely fan-freaking-tastic Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe — a warm, comforting, and downright addictive way to start your day with all the best flavors of Thanksgiving wrapped up in one bite. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never look at your leftovers the same way again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe lies in using what’s already in your fridge but putting it together in a way that feels fresh and special. I always recommend using warm, freshly reheated leftovers so everything melds together perfectly.

• Biscuits, Buns, or Dinner Rolls: These sturdy breads hold up well to the hefty filling, but toast or English muffins work great, too!
• Cranberry Sauce: This adds a tangy sweetness that balances the savory layers – homemade or store-bought both work wonderfully.
• Warm Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, they add a rich texture that I adore in every bite.
• Warm Turkey: Sliced thin or thick, leftover turkey is the star protein here — make sure it’s warmed through but not dry.
• Eggs (Poached, Fried, or Scrambled): I mixed it up over the years, but a runny yolk from fried or poached eggs adds a luscious sauce to your sandwich.

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own. I often tweak the fillings based on what’s left or how I’m feeling that morning — the possibilities are endless!

• Spicy Kick: Occasionally, I’ll add a spread of chipotle mayo or a slice of pepper jack cheese for some heat, and my taste buds thank me every time.
• Vegetarian Version: If you’re skipping the turkey, roasted veggies or a hearty portobello mushroom make a great substitute that still feels indulgent.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free rolls or a savory gluten-free pancake as your bread keeps this sandwich friendly for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Cheese Lovers Unite: I sometimes layer in sharp cheddar or melty swiss for extra gooey goodness.

How to Make Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe

Step 1: Warm Your Leftovers Gently

The very first thing I do is warm my mashed potatoes and turkey. I like to microwave them covered for about 1-2 minutes, stirring the potatoes halfway so they heat evenly, or you can warm them in a skillet. Cold turkey can be a little tough in the sandwich — warming it just enough makes all the difference.

Step 2: Prep Your Bread

Slice open your biscuits, buns, or rolls and toast them lightly if you want a bit of crunch. Toasting keeps them from getting soggy once you pile on the mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce. If you’re using English muffins, splitting them and toasting until golden is perfect.

Step 3: Build Your Sandwich Layers

Spread a generous layer of cranberry sauce on the bottom half of your bread — this step is key because it adds that tangy burst that wakes up all the other flavors. Next, spoon on warm mashed potatoes. I used to skimp here, but more potatoes mean extra comfort! Then add your warmed turkey slice or two.

Step 4: Add the Egg and Finish

Top your towering sandwich pile with a poached, fried, or scrambled egg — whatever your preference is. I personally love a runny yolk because it acts like a natural sauce that brings everything together. Cap it with the top half of your biscuit or bun and get ready for that first glorious bite!

How to Serve Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a fresh, mild flavor that cuts through the rich layers. If you’re feeling fancy, a tiny drizzle of hot sauce adds a surprising zing that wakes up your palate.

Side Dishes

Although the sandwich itself is pretty hearty, my go-to side is a simple green salad with vinaigrette to brighten the meal. Sometimes I crack open a fresh orange or serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea — perfect to balance those cozy Thanksgiving vibes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion brunch, I like to slice these sandwiches in half diagonally and stack them on a rustic wooden board, scattering some fresh herbs and a few extra dollops of cranberry sauce on the side. It makes the presentation feel both homey and a little festive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers of the sandwich itself (which is rare in my house!), wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate. I find they stay tasty for up to 2 days. It’s best to reheat gently in a skillet rather than the microwave to keep bread from becoming chewy.

Freezing

I haven’t had great success freezing the fully assembled sandwiches because of the mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, which can change texture. Instead, freeze your leftover turkey and mashed potatoes separately for quick reheating and assembling fresh sandwiches when you want.

Reheating

When reheating, I recommend warming the turkey and mashed potatoes in the microwave or stovetop until hot but not overcooked. Toast your bread fresh, then assemble the sandwich and add a fresh egg, which really brings life back to your breakfast sandwich.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I can’t tell you how many times this Thanksgiving Leftover Breakfast Sandwiches Recipe has saved me from ‘leftover fatigue’ and turned chilly mornings into moments of pure joy. It’s become a cozy tradition in my home, something my family looks forward to just as much as the big dinner. I hope you give it a try and find yourself loving those leftovers exactly as much as I do — with a fresh, comforting twist that makes you smile with every bite!

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