Looking for a delicious way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers? This Turkey Cranberry Panini brings all the cozy holiday flavors together in one warm, melty sandwich. The sweet cranberry sauce perfectly balances the savory turkey and creamy melted cheese, making it a must-try the day after your big feast. It’s a gourmet-style lunch that feels comforting yet incredibly easy to make.
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. I MAY EARN A COMMISION IF YOU PURCHACE. PLEASE SEE MY FULL DISCLOSURE POLICY FOR DETAILS. AS AN AMAZON ASSOCIATE I EARN FROM QUALIFYING PURCHASES.
Whether you’re lounging around after the holidays or just craving those classic Thanksgiving flavors, this sandwich hits the spot. The best part? You can customize your panini with whatever leftovers you have on hand—stuffing, gravy, or even a smear of aioli. It’s all about mixing it up and creating your perfect bite.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Cranberry Panini
- Quick & easy: Ready in under 10 minutes—perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Sweet meets savory: The cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with turkey and melted cheese in a delightful turkey cranberry panini combination.
- Customizable: Add your favorite leftovers—stuffing, gravy, or mashed potatoes—for a fun twist.
- Café-style feel: Crispy golden bread with a gooey, flavorful center—no takeout required.
Ingredients
- 2 slices sourdough or Italian bread
- 3 Tbsp cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup leftover turkey
- 1/4 cup leftover stuffing
- 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 1 Tbsp mayonnaise (or leftover aioli)
- Butter, for grilling
Instructions
- Assemble the sandwich:
Spread cranberry sauce on one slice of bread and mayonnaise on the other. Layer with turkey ,stuffing and cheese to create your tasty turkey cranberry panini. - Butter the bread:
Lightly butter the outside of each bread slice for that golden, crispy crust. - Grill it up:
Place the sandwich in a panini press or skillet over medium heat. Grill until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, about 3–5 minutes per side if using a skillet. - Serve and enjoy:
Slice in half and serve warm with extra cranberry sauce or a little gravy on the side for dipping.
Optional Add-Ins
Want to take your panini to the next level? Try one (or more) of these ideas:
- Gravy drizzle: Spoon a bit of warm gravy inside before grilling.
- Cream cheese spread: Replace the mayo with cream cheese for a tangy twist.
Nettie’s Tip 💡
If you don’t have a panini press, don’t worry! You can easily make this sandwich in a skillet. Just place a heavy pan or foil-wrapped brick on top while cooking to press it down evenly—instant panini press!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different bread?
Absolutely! Try ciabatta, focaccia, or even a leftover dinner roll to create your own version of a sandwich that’s turkey cranberry panini inspired.
What cheese works best?
Provolone and Swiss melt beautifully, but brie or Havarti add a rich, creamy touch that pairs wonderfully with cranberry sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwich ahead, refrigerate it, and grill it when you’re ready to eat. It’s great for meal prepping after the holidays and perfect for enjoying your turkey cranberry panini later.
Serving Ideas
Serve this sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries, a green salad, chips & pickles or even a cup of leftover turkey soup for the ultimate cozy meal. It’s a comforting way to make your Thanksgiving leftovers feel brand new with the addition of a savory turkey cranberry panini.
Love spending time in the kitchen or by the grill? You’ll love my Foodie & Griller apparel — made for cooks who do it with style
Reader Favorites
Turkey Cranberry Panini
Ingredients
- 2 slices sourdough bread or Italian bread
- 3 Tbsp cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup turkey
- 1/4 cup stuffing
- 4 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
- 1 Tbsp mayonnaise or leftover aioli
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Spread cranberry sauce on one slice of bread and mayonnaise on the other. Layer with turkey, stuffing and cheese to create your tasty turkey cranberry panini.
- Lightly butter the outside of each bread slice for that golden, crispy crust.
- Place the sandwich in a panini press or skillet over medium heat. Grill until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted, about 3–5 minutes per side if using a skillet.
- Slice in half and serve warm with extra cranberry sauce or a little gravy on the side for dipping.