Thanksgiving leftovers shouldn’t just be about microwaving yesterday’s feast into submission. Enter the Leftover Turkey Melt Recipe—a toasty, cheesy masterpiece that lets leftover turkey take center stage. With tangy red wine mayo, gooey melted cheddar, and perfectly crisp sourdough bread, this sandwich proves that leftovers can transform into something truly crave-worthy.

Leftovers: the gift that keeps on giving…and sometimes overstaying its welcome. If your fridge is stuffed tighter than the Thanksgiving turkey itself, this leftover turkey melt recipe is here to save the day (and your sanity). A roasted turkey melt is everything you want in a leftover meal—quick, easy, and so good it makes you forget you’ve already eaten turkey four times this week. With melty cheddar, crispy sourdough, and a tangy red wine mayo that’s just fancy enough to impress yourself, this sandwich takes your leftovers from blah to ta-da!

Ingredients That Make This Turkey Melt Special

Each ingredient brings something special to this sandwich, and with a few easy swaps, you can customize it to fit your pantry or preferences.

Butter, softened: This is the key to that golden, crispy crust that makes grilled sandwiches irresistible. No butter? A little olive oil or even mayo on the outside of the bread works in a pinch.
Sourdough Deli Bread: Sourdough adds a subtle tang and holds up beautifully during toasting.
Mayonnaise: Creamy and essential for the tangy mayo spread. If mayo’s not your thing, plain Greek yogurt can step in without a hitch.
Red Wine Vinegar: The secret ingredient! This splash of vinegar cuts through the richness and elevates the flavors. No red wine vinegar? Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can fill the gap.
Pinch of Kosher Salt & Freshly Cracked Black Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together. Don’t skip these!
Leftover Roasted Turkey: The star of the show! Any roasted turkey works here, white or dark meat.
White Cheddar Cheese: Melty, creamy, and just sharp enough to complement the turkey. Don’t have white cheddar? Use what you love—Swiss, provolone, or even gruyere will do the trick.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a Leftover Turkey Melt

Ready to make the leftover turkey melt recipe? Let’s break it down step-by-step.

Make the Tangy Mayo Spread: In a small bowl, mix mayo with red wine vinegar, a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. This quick little spread adds just the right zip to balance the richness of the turkey and cheese.
Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the mayo on one side of each slice of sourdough. Then layer on the turkey, cheddar cheese, and top it with another slice of bread—mayo side in.
Butter It Up: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the outside of the bread. This is what gives you that golden, crispy finish. Skimping here is not recommended.
Toast It to Perfection: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat, then add your sandwich. Cook until each side is golden brown, flipping carefully. The cheese should be melted and gooey, and the bread perfectly toasted.
Slice and Enjoy: Cut the sandwich in half, serve it up warm, and dig in! Pro tip: adding a side of cranberry sauce for dipping is a game-changer.

If you’re feeling fancy, try extras like crispy bacon or tomato slices. But honestly, this leftover turkey melt recipe doesn’t need much to shine—it’s simple, satisfying, and a great way to breathe new life into those Thanksgiving leftovers.

leftover turkey melt recipe thanksgiving white cheddar sourdough bread roasted turkey

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Thanksgiving Leftover Turkey Melt

Say goodbye to boring leftovers with this yummy Turkey Melt recipe! Golden sourdough bread, tangy red wine mayo, and gooey cheddar cheese turn your Thanksgiving turkey into a toasty, cheesy delight. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add cranberry sauce, tomatoes, or bacon, this sandwich is sure to be a hit.

Prep Time5

Cook Time8

Total Time13

Course: lunch, Sandwiches

Cuisine: American

Servings: sandwiches

Calories: 918kcal

Ingredients

3 tbsp butter softened
4 slices sourdough bread
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tsp red wine vinegar
Pinch kosher salt
Pinch freshly ground black pepper
6 oz leftover roasted turkey shredded or sliced
4 slices white cheddar cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Red Wine Mayo: Mix mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread mayo mixture on one side of each bread slice. Layer 3 oz turkey and 2 slices of cheese on two slices (mayo side up). Top with remaining bread (mayo side down).
Toast the Sandwiches: Butter the outside of each sandwich. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cheese melts.
Serve Hot: Slice each sandwich in half. Enjoy as-is or with optional add-ons like cranberry sauce, fresh tomatoes, or bacon!

Notes

Softened butter spreads more easily—take it out of the fridge a little early, or give it a quick 10-second zap in the microwave.
Substitutes: Any sturdy bread works in a pinch. Try whole grain or brioche. Feel free to mix it up with sharp cheddar, provolone, or even Havarti.
Prefer a lighter option? Swap in Greek yogurt for a tangy, healthier alternative.
Crispy bacon or tomato slices make it extra indulgent.
Sprinkle fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, for a gourmet touch.

Nutrition

Question: What’s your go-to recipe for Thanksgiving leftovers? Are you team turkey sandwich, or do you have another creative way to repurpose the feast?