Why This Sandwich is a Must-Try
Leftover turkey gravy infuses Russian dressing with a rich, savory flavor that enhances the overall taste of this sandwich. The combination of sweet and tangy cranberry sauce with the zesty kick of sauerkraut brings festive cheer to a traditional deli favorite. Preheating both the turkey and cranberry-kraut mixture ensures that your cheese melts perfectly when you assemble your sandwich.
While I’m not particularly fond of serving or eating roast turkey during Thanksgiving, I do appreciate its leftovers for crafting delicious sandwiches. In my New York City kitchen, I often opt for more flavorful birds like duck or chicken, which fit better in my fridge and oven. If my guests prefer something different, I’m happy to prepare slow-roasted pork shoulder or tri-tip beef instead. However, even if I’m not keen on the main dish itself, I always look forward to having bags full of leftover turkey ready for post-holiday sandwiches.
Although we enjoy reinventing our leftovers with dishes like spicy Sichuan-style turkey salad or comforting ramen, there’s something truly magical about a classic turkey sandwich—especially on Black Friday! Many people have their go-to leftover sandwich recipe they eagerly anticipate each year; however, if you’re looking to try something new this season, consider making an easy Thanksgiving Turkey Reuben.
### Reuben vs. Rachel: What’s in a Name?
Before diving into the recipe details, let’s clarify one thing: whether you call it a Reuben or Rachel doesn’t matter as much as enjoying it! While some may argue that substituting corned beef with turkey changes its classification entirely (with Rachels typically using coleslaw instead of sauerkraut), I believe in sticking with tradition by using sauerkraut here.
Making coleslaw after Thanksgiving feels out of place; instead, let’s embrace that jar of sauerkraut lurking at the back of your fridge! After indulging in heavy holiday meals, I’d rather savor the tangy notes from kraut than creamy slaw. Feel free to debate its name among family members while enjoying this rich and satisfying creation—let’s just agree it’s undeniably delicious!
Preparing Your Ingredients
To elevate this sandwich experience further using those cherished Thanksgiving leftovers:
- Reheat Turkey: Start by warming up pulled or sliced turkey wrapped in foil along with some stock to keep it moist—because let’s face it; leftover turkey can be dry.
- Warm Sauerkraut: Heat up your sauerkraut mixed with cranberry sauce until warmed through—the sweet-tart balance complements the kraut beautifully without overpowering it.
- Gravy Meets Dressing: For an extra layer of flavor magic, mix some savory gravy into your Russian dressing—it adds depth that’s hard to resist!
Assembling Your Sandwich
When it’s time to put everything together:
- Butter one side of each slice of rye bread before lightly browning them on either an electric griddle or skillet.
- Spread gravy-infused Russian dressing generously on unbuttered sides.
- Layer warm slices of turkey followed by cranberry-kraut mixture and Swiss cheese.
If you’re opting for oven baking rather than griddling:
- Place cheese atop only half before transferring them into preheated oven until melted (about 3 minutes).
- If griddling instead? Close up those sandwiches and press down gently while cooking until golden brown on both sides (around 2 minutes per side).
Once everything is gooey and melty perfection awaits inside those crispy slices—slice them up and serve immediately! Just be warned: these sandwiches are so good there might not be any leftovers left over!
#### Ingredients You’ll Need:
For Russian Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 2 tablespoons leftover gravy
- 2 tablespoons chopped dill pickles
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- Juice from half a lemon
- Salt & pepper
For Sandwiches:
- 1 pound leftover roast turkey (pulled/sliced)
- 2 tablespoons chicken stock
- 1½ cups sauerkraut
- ¼ cup cranberry sauce
- Butter for spreading
- Rye bread slices
- Swiss cheese slices
Instructions Overview:
- Mix all ingredients for dressing together; set aside.
- Preheat oven at 350°F (175°C). Wrap reheating ingredients tightly in foil packets. 3. Warm kraut & cranberries together over medium heat until heated through. 4 . Toast buttered bread till golden brown then assemble layers accordingly! 5 . Cook via chosen method till cheese melts beautifully then serve hot!
Enjoy creating this delightful twist on classic holiday flavors—you won’t regret trying out this scrumptious Leftover Turkey Reuben!