Oh Yes, It's Turkey Sandwich Time

Ah, the post-Thanksgiving turkey sandwich—it’s almost as iconic as the T-Day meal itself. We’re certainly fans of going the classic route: you know, cranberry relish on one slice of bread and mashed potatoes on the other, hearty helpings of stuffing and turkey, plus a good dousing of gravy in the middle…and maybe a little lettuce if you’re feeling wild.

But while there’s nothing wrong with the tried-and-true, there are also lots of innovative ways to gussy up your leftover bird. Crisp green apples, bacon, fancy cheese—yes, please! Just check out these five tasty ideas for giving the traditional turkey sammie a fresh, modern twist:

1. With melty blue cheese, sweet-tart chutney, and peppery arugula on earthy walnut bread, Williams Sonoma’s turkey panini with blue cheese and cranberry-apricot chutney is some seriously next-level poultry. Just use whatever leftover cranberry relish you have on hand! No home panini press? Place the sandwich in a greased skillet and weigh it down by placing a heavy pot or full tea kettle on top; be sure to flip the sandwich over and cook the other side.

2. The dance between cream cheese and cranberry sauce is the simple secret to the Splendid Table’s “ultimate turkey sandwich.” Basic white bread forms the base, mayo and lettuce provide balance, and a dark, grainy mustard and sliced scallions add the defining kick.

3. Okay, so we’ve got melty Swiss cheese, turkey and Black Forest ham, and thick slices of toasty ciabatta bread in this grilled turkey Cuban sandwich from Bon Appétit. But the real clinchers are the not one, but two gourmet mayos: a spicy pairing with chili sauce, and a fresh-flavor bomb with mint, lime, shallots, and cumin. Delicioso!

4. If you want a healthier day-after alternative, look no further than Martha Stewart’s turkey, cheddar, and green apple sammie. Spread a little grainy mustard on one slice of lightly toasted whole-grain bread and a little mayo on another; in between, layer thin slices of turkey breast, sharp cheddar cheese, and green apples with a couple red lettuce leaves. Each bite will be a crispy, crunchy, smooth, and chewy party in your mouth!

5. On the opposite end of the spectrum from Martha, there’s Rachael Ray’s divinely decadent turkey and bacon Monte Cristo. Turkey, bacon, Swiss cheese, cranberry sauce, and pickles are sandwiched between slices of white bread and dipped in egg batter before being fried in a buttered pan. Just…wow. This belly-filler is a great reason to sign up for your local Turkey Trot. Or maybe the Jingle Bell Run.