Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich: A Delicious Holiday Leftover Recipe

Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich: the ultimate post-Thanksgiving indulgence, or frankly, a delightful treat any time of year! Are you ready to transform those holiday leftovers into a gourmet experience that will have your taste buds singing? Forget dry turkey and bland bread; we’re elevating the humble sandwich to new heights.

The concept of combining sweet and savory flavors isn’t new, of course. Cultures around the world have long appreciated the interplay of contrasting tastes. Think of the classic French pairing of cheese and fruit, or the Middle Eastern tradition of adding dried apricots to savory stews. This Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich builds upon that foundation, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that is both comforting and sophisticated.

What makes this sandwich so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory. The rich, melted brie provides a luxurious base, while the cranberry sauce offers a burst of sweetness and tartness. The turkey, of course, adds a hearty, savory element. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly easy to assemble, requires minimal cooking, and delivers maximum flavor. It’s also a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers, reducing food waste and creating a brand new culinary adventure. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s create the perfect Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of crusty bread (sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta work well)
• 8 ounces brie cheese, sliced
• 1 pound cooked turkey breast, sliced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 1/4 cup arugula or baby spinach (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Sandwiches:

1. Slice the Bread: Begin by slicing your loaf of bread horizontally. You can either create one long sandwich to slice into individual portions later, or slice individual sandwich portions right away. I prefer slicing individual portions – it makes assembly a bit easier!
2. Prepare the Condiments (Optional): In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This creates a creamy, tangy spread that complements the other flavors beautifully. If you prefer a simpler sandwich, you can skip this step and just use butter.
3. Butter the Bread: Spread the softened butter evenly on the outside of each slice of bread. This will help the sandwiches get golden brown and crispy when toasted. Don’t skimp on the butter – it’s key to a delicious, toasted sandwich!
4. Spread the Condiments (Optional): If you’re using the mayonnaise-mustard mixture, spread it evenly on the inside of the bottom slices of bread. This adds a layer of flavor and helps to keep the bread from getting soggy.
5. Layer the Brie: Arrange the sliced brie cheese on top of the condiment layer (or directly on the bread if you’re not using condiments). Make sure the brie is evenly distributed so that each bite is cheesy and delicious. I like to use a generous amount of brie – it melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy texture.
6. Add the Turkey: Layer the sliced turkey breast on top of the brie cheese. Again, make sure the turkey is evenly distributed. You can use freshly carved turkey, leftover Thanksgiving turkey, or deli turkey – whatever you have on hand! I find that about 4 ounces of turkey per sandwich is a good amount.
7. Spoon on the Cranberry Sauce: Spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey. The cranberry sauce adds a sweet and tart element that balances the richness of the brie and turkey. You can use homemade cranberry sauce or store-bought – both work well. I prefer a cranberry sauce that’s not too sweet, so the tartness really shines through.
8. Add Greens (Optional): If you’re using arugula or baby spinach, add a handful on top of the cranberry sauce. The greens add a fresh, peppery flavor and a bit of texture to the sandwich.
9. Season with Salt and Pepper: Lightly season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. This helps to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients.
10. Top with the Other Slice of Bread: Place the top slice of bread on top of the filling, butter-side up.

Cooking Process:

1. Heat a Skillet or Griddle: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. You can also use a panini press if you have one.
2. Toast the Sandwiches: Place the sandwiches in the heated skillet or griddle. Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the brie cheese is melted and gooey. You may need to press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to ensure even cooking. I like to use a cast iron skillet for this – it distributes the heat evenly and creates a beautiful crust on the bread.
3. Check for Doneness: To check if the sandwiches are done, gently press down on them with a spatula. The bread should be golden brown and crispy, and the brie cheese should be melted and oozing out. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
4. Remove from Heat: Once the sandwiches are cooked to your liking, remove them from the skillet or griddle and place them on a cutting board.

Serving:

1. Let Cool Slightly: Let the sandwiches cool for a minute or two before slicing. This will prevent the cheese from oozing out too much when you cut them.
2. Slice and Serve: Slice the sandwiches in half or into smaller portions, depending on your preference. Serve immediately while the bread is still warm and crispy and the brie cheese is melted and gooey.
3. Optional Sides: These sandwiches are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of soup, salad, or chips. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great complement to the richness of the sandwich.

Tips and Variations:

• Type of Bread: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread. Sourdough, baguette, ciabatta, and even croissants all work well.
• Cheese Variations: If you’re not a fan of brie, you can substitute other cheeses such as Camembert, Gruyere, or even a sharp cheddar.
• Meat Options: You can also use other types of meat, such as ham, roast beef, or even vegetarian options like roasted vegetables or grilled halloumi.
• Cranberry Sauce Variations: If you prefer a sweeter cranberry sauce, you can add a bit of sugar or honey to your homemade version. You can also add other fruits, such as apples or oranges, to the cranberry sauce.
• Add-ins: Consider adding other ingredients to your sandwich, such as caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
• Make it a Panini: If you have a panini press, you can use it to make these sandwiches. Just follow the same steps, but cook the sandwiches in the panini press until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent the bread from drying out.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cranberry sauce for a little kick.
• Sweet and Savory: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the brie before adding the turkey and cranberry sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this delicious Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich recipe! It’s a perfect way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey, or simply to enjoy a quick and easy lunch or dinner. The combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors is simply irresistible. Let me know in the comments if you try it and what variations you come up with!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another sandwich; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich is a must-try because it perfectly balances savory, sweet, and creamy textures in every single bite. Think about it: tender turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and rich, melted brie all nestled between slices of perfectly toasted bread. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

But the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or even a light dinner, this sandwich comes together in minutes. No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients are required. It’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Beyond its simplicity and incredible taste, this sandwich is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking! For a heartier meal, try adding some crisp bacon or a handful of baby spinach. If you’re feeling adventurous, swap out the cranberry sauce for fig jam or apple chutney for a different twist on the sweet and savory combination. You could even experiment with different types of bread – sourdough, ciabatta, or even a croissant would all be fantastic choices.

Looking for serving suggestions? This Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich pairs perfectly with a side of sweet potato fries, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of creamy tomato soup. It’s also a great option for picnics, potlucks, or even a fancy brunch. Cut it into smaller pieces and serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering – your guests will be impressed!

And don’t forget about variations! If you’re not a fan of brie, you can easily substitute it with another soft cheese like goat cheese or camembert. For a vegetarian option, replace the turkey with roasted vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes. The possibilities are endless!

I truly believe that this Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich is a game-changer. It’s a simple yet sophisticated recipe that’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your panini press (or your skillet!), and get ready to experience sandwich perfection.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and discover just how amazing it is. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? Share your photos and stories in the comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy sandwich-making! I’m confident that this will become your go-to recipe for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal. Don’t be shy, give the Turkey Cranberry Brie Sandwich a try today!