Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich

Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich

Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich is a hearty meal that merges the savory flavor of turkey with the sweet tartness of cranberry sauce, all topped with bubbling provolone cheese. This sandwich makes an ideal choice for using up Thanksgiving leftovers or for a comforting dinner on a chilly night. The crispy bread provides a sturdy base, while the layers of turkey and cheese create a melty, rich topping that will satisfy your cravings.

Some recipes miss the mark by making the bread too dry after broiling, which can ruin the sandwich. By using a generous amount of cranberry sauce, this version keeps the bread moist and flavorsome, perfectly balancing the richness of the turkey and cheese. This simple adjustment transforms leftovers into a standout dish, preventing the dryness that often plagues similar recipes.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Moisture-rich cranberry sauce — Unlike other sandwiches, the ample cranberry sauce prevents dryness and enhances flavor.
• Quick to prepare — With only 20 minutes of prep work, you can create a filling meal without the fuss.
• Customizable layers — Add more turkey or stuffing according to your taste or what you have on hand.
• Perfect for leftovers — A great way to utilize Thanksgiving items like turkey and stuffing without wasting a thing.
• Cheesy goodness — The provolone melts to a golden brown, creating a delightful and gooey topping that elevates the sandwich.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Serves 6-8

For the Sandwich

• 1 loaf French bread — provides a sturdy base; Italian bread can substitute but may be denser.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise — adds creaminess; Greek yogurt can work as a tangy alternative.
• 1 cup cranberry sauce — the star of the sandwich, keeping everything moist; use homemade or canned, but avoid low-sugar varieties.
• 2-3 cups cooked turkey, shredded — the main protein; chicken or ham can be used in a pinch, but flavor will vary.
• 2-3 cups stuffing/dressing — adds texture and flavor; store-bought or homemade work well, but avoid soggy leftovers.
• 6 large slices provolone cheese — melts beautifully; mozzarella or Swiss cheese can be substituted but won't have the same flavor.

How to Make Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Cut the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise. You want to create two large pieces that will hold all the toppings. A serrated knife works best for this to avoid squishing the bread.

Step 2: Add Mayonnaise

Spread 1/4 cup of mayonnaise evenly over each half of the bread. This will add a layer of richness and prevent the bread from drying out in the oven as it broils.

Step 3: Spoon the Cranberry Sauce

Spoon 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce onto each half and spread it out using a knife. This not only adds flavor but creates a barrier that will keep the bread moist under the heat.

Step 4: Layer the Turkey

Evenly arrange 2-3 cups of shredded turkey over the cranberry sauce. Make sure you cover the sauce thoroughly to maximize flavor in each bite.

Step 5: Sprinkle the Stuffing

Top the turkey with 2-3 cups of stuffing, spreading it evenly. This provides texture and complements the sandwich’s savory notes.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Lay 6 large slices of provolone cheese over the stuffing. Make sure the cheese covers all the stuffing for an even melt and golden finish.

Step 7: Broil the Sandwiches

Preheat the oven to broil on high. Once the oven is hot, place the baking sheet with the sandwiches inside. Broil for about 5 minutes, watching closely until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If the cheese starts to burn, remove it immediately to prevent bitterness.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the sandwich cool for 2 minutes before slicing. This cooling time allows the melted cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve without falling apart. Slice and enjoy your delightful open faced sandwich!

How to Serve Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich

An Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich is satisfying and versatile, perfect for using up leftovers from a festive meal. Serve it warm right after broiling for the best texture and flavor. Here are some serving ideas and perfect accompaniments to make your meal complete.

Serving Ideas

• Serve it hot — This sandwich is best enjoyed straight out of the oven, ideally at about 160°F (70°C). Allow the sandwiches to cool for about 2 minutes before slicing; this helps the cheese set for easier handling.
• Use sturdy plates — Present your sandwiches on large, flat plates or wooden boards to keep the warm sandwiches from becoming soggy. The flat surface helps maintain crispiness.
• Cut into manageable portions — Slice the sandwiches into quarters for easier handling, especially when serving at a casual gathering or potluck. Each quarter holds together nicely and is easy to pick up.
• Garnish for flair — Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dusting of paprika on top before serving. This brightens up the dish visually, indicating a touch of freshness alongside the rich sandwich.

What to Serve Alongside

1. Crisp Salad — A green salad with a vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the sandwich, providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Sweet Potato Fries — The natural sweetness of these fries complements the turkey and cranberry well while adding extra crunch.
3. Pickles — The tangy, acidic flavor of pickles balances the heaviness of the turkey and cheese, providing a nice contrast in flavor profiles.
4. Steamed Asparagus — This mildly bitter, crunchy vegetable adds a healthy touch and a striking color contrast on the plate.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts — Their nutty flavor pairs well with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce, rounding out the meal nicely.
6. Apple Slices — The sweetness and crunch of fresh apple slices balances the flavors, adding a refreshing bite between bites of the sandwich.

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Tips for the Best Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich

Making the perfect Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich takes a few tips to ensure it shines. Here’s how to maximize flavor and prevent common missteps.

• Layer wisely — Start with a good amount of cranberry sauce (about 1/2 cup per half loaf). This helps keep the bread moist while adding a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese — Use 6 slices of Provolone to ensure it melts evenly and creates a satisfying cheesy top that’s both rich and gooey.
• Monitor the broiling — Broil for exactly 5 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it, as broilers can vary widely. Remove it immediately once it reaches the perfect color to avoid burning.
• Pre-shred the turkey — Use 2-3 cups of shredded turkey as it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, avoiding large chunks that can make the sandwich awkward to eat.
• Cool briefly before serving — Let the sandwiches rest for about 2 minutes after broiling. This cooling period allows the cheese to set slightly without becoming hard, making it easier to slice.
• Choose the right bread — French bread is ideal because its crust remains crispy even after broiling. Avoid softer breads that can get soggy when topped with sauce and cheese.
• Use airtight storage — If you have leftovers, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Refrigerating the sandwiches can lead to soggy bread, which ruins the texture.

How to Store Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich

This dish keeps best at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Storing in the refrigerator can make the bread soggy, which isn’t ideal for enjoying this sandwich melt.

Room Temperature

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps fresh for 1-2 days.
• Look for a hard crust or dry texture as signs it's past its best.

Freezing Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich

• Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• If the bread appears excessively dry or crumbly upon thawing, it has likely lost quality.

Refrigerator

• Not recommended, but if necessary, place in an airtight container.
• Can last for about 1 day if refrigerated.
• Watch for sogginess or separation of ingredients, indicating it's no longer fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare the sandwiches in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Just be ready to broil them right before serving for that warm, melty cheese!

Why did my Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich turn out dense?

This can happen if you used too much stuffing or didn't allow the layer of turkey to evenly distribute. Aim for 2-3 cups of light, fluffy stuffing to keep the texture airy.

Can I halve the Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich recipe?

Yes, you can easily halve the ingredients to make fewer servings. Just use 1/2 loaf of French bread, and scale the toppings proportionally to match.

Does Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich freeze well?

Yes, these sandwiches freeze nicely. Wrap each one in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and they can last for up to 3 months.

What pan can I use for Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich?

Use a large baking sheet to accommodate the sandwiches. If you have a rimmed version, that’s even better, as it can catch any drips from the melted cheese.

Final Thoughts

This Open Faced Turkey Cranberry Provolone Sandwich melds the savory taste of turkey with the tart sweetness of cranberry sauce and melted provolone, making it a delicious use of leftovers. It's versatile and can be customized with additional toppings like spinach or different cheeses. Give it a try; it's an easy, comforting meal for any day of the week!