Updated – July 2026 – October 9, 2023

Wondering what to do with leftover turkey after Thanksgiving or Christmas? This Leftover Turkey Sandwich with Gravy is the ultimate comfort food. Tender slices of turkey are piled high between thick slices of bread, smothered in rich homemade turkey gravy, and served with creamy mashed potatoes for a classic Canadian diner-style meal.

Whether you’re using roasted turkey from your holiday feast or leftover smoked turkey, this hot turkey sandwich transforms leftovers into a meal that’s every bit as delicious as the original dinner.

It’s quick, hearty, budget-friendly, and one of the best ways to enjoy leftover turkey the next day.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The perfect way to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey
• Ready in only 20 minutes
• Rich, comforting homemade gravy
• Family-friendly comfort food
• Great for Christmas leftovers too
• A classic Canadian hot turkey sandwich

Tips for the Best Hot Turkey Sandwich

Warm the Turkey in the Gravy

Never microwave leftover turkey by itself. Heating it gently in the gravy keeps it juicy and tender.

Use Thick Bread

Texas toast, sourdough, or homemade white bread holds up best under the rich gravy.

Don’t Skimp on the Gravy

The gravy is what makes this sandwich irresistible. Make extra—you’ll want plenty for the potatoes too.

Add Cranberry Sauce

A spoonful of cranberry sauce adds the perfect sweet and tangy contrast to the savory turkey and gravy.

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Variations

Open-Faced Hot Turkey Sandwich

Use one thick slice of bread instead of two and smother everything with extra gravy.

Turkey Melt

Add Swiss or sharp cheddar cheese and broil until melted and bubbly.

Leftover Thanksgiving Sandwich

Layer stuffing between the turkey and bread before adding the gravy for the ultimate holiday comfort meal.

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Storage

Store leftover turkey and gravy together in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Freezing is not recommended once the sandwich is assembled, but the turkey and gravy freeze well for up to 3 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best bread for a hot turkey sandwich?

Thick-cut white bread, sourdough, Texas toast, or homemade country bread are all excellent choices because they hold up well under the gravy.

Can I use chicken instead?

Absolutely! This recipe works just as well with leftover roasted chicken for an easy hot chicken sandwich.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Keep the turkey and gravy warm in a saucepan and toast the bread just before serving for the best texture.

What sides go well with a hot turkey sandwich?

Creamy mashed potatoes, green peas, roasted vegetables, stuffing, and cranberry sauce are classic pairings.

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Canadian Cooking Adventures Tips ❤️

There’s a reason the Hot Turkey Sandwich with Gravy has been a beloved diner classic across Canada for generations. It’s simple, comforting, and the perfect way to give your holiday leftovers a second life. I always recommend warming the turkey directly in the gravy instead of reheating it on its own—it keeps every bite juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes and plenty of extra gravy, and you’ll have a meal that many people look forward to just as much as the original Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.