Save Thanksgiving Leftovers Waffle Sandwiches take all the best parts of your holiday feast and turn them into a crispy-griddled brunch treat. Leftover stuffing gets a second life as the crusty base for a stacked sandwich loaded with sliced turkey, tangy cranberry, and a savory pour of gravy. This is my favorite way to make leftovers feel exciting—kids and adults light up when they see these come out of the waffle iron.
I started making these the morning after Thanksgiving and now family members save their leftovers just to be sure there is enough. It has become our official tradition to gather and build our own creative sandwiches, hot waffle by hot waffle.
Ingredients
- Leftover stuffing: You want it crumbled or diced so it presses well in the waffle iron Choose a stuffing with good seasoning for more flavor
- Eggs: These help bind the stuffing in the waffle iron Use large eggs for best results
- Low-sodium chicken or turkey broth: Brings moisture to dried out stuffing For even more flavor, use homemade stock if you have it
- Cooking spray or oil: Essential for getting the waffles crisped with no sticking to the iron
- Cooked turkey breast or thigh: Pick your favorite part Leftovers work even if they are a bit dry as the gravy moistens them
- Leftover gravy: Warmed through before serving helps tie everything together Look for one with lots of pan drippings for best flavor
- Cranberry sauce: Adds brightness and sweet tang Canned or homemade both work
- Provolone Swiss or cheddar cheese: Optional but delicious for creamy pull Thin sliced is best for easy melting
- Baby spinach or arugula: Optional layer of freshness Adds some color and lightens the richness
- Salt and black pepper: Adds seasoning taste as you go especially if stuffing or turkey is bland
Instructions
- Preheat the Waffle Iron:
- Follow your manufacturer’s directions and let it get fully hot Spray or brush it with oil so nothing sticks
- Mix the Stuffing Batter:
- Combine stuffing eggs and broth in a big bowl Using your hands or a spatula squeeze everything together The texture should be damp and stick together Add more broth if needed Too dry and it will not hold shape
- Waffle the Stuffing:
- Scoop about one cup of mixture into the center of the hot waffle iron Press down gently and latch if your iron has a lock Let it cook for four to six minutes Open only when deep golden and crisp Lift out with a spatula Make four waffles keeping them warm in a low oven
- Layer the Sandwich:
- Place a waffle on a plate Add sliced turkey followed by warm gravy and a spoonful of cranberry sauce Top with cheese and greens if you like everything hot and melty
- Top and Serve:
- Place another waffle on top to finish the sandwich Slice if needed and serve right away with extra gravy alongside for dipping
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Eat immediately for crunch or pack in foil for an on-the-go brunch
Save My favorite ingredient is the stuffing waffle I am always amazed at how leftover stuffing turns golden and crisp like the best savory bread My kids say it is better than any bakery breakfast and we all get creative with the fillings year after year
Storage Tips
Store any extra stuffing waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days Stack with parchment to avoid sticking Reheat in a toaster oven for maximum crispness If you have assembled sandwiches cool them before wrapping in foil and refrigerating overnight
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap turkey for ham roast chicken or even thick slices of roasted squash if you need a vegetarian twist Gluten-free stuffing works just as well and you can use non-dairy cheeses if there are allergies No gravy Use a warm herbed cream cheese or even leftover mushroom sauce
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sandwiches with a fresh spinach salad or a quick side of fruit Apple cider or a light crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio balances the richness For a bigger brunch offer fried eggs on the side
Cultural Context
Stuffing waffles became popular a few years back when creative cooks wanted to avoid bland leftover sandwiches Turning classic American holiday food into a playful brunch bridges family and comfort food memories in a whole new way It is a tradition rooted in making the most of every last bit and gathering everyone around for one more cozy meal
Seasonal Adaptations
Try these waffles with Christmas or winter holiday leftovers as well Use roast beef and horseradish sauce for a post-Christmas twist Add roasted brussels sprouts or sweet potato in the sandwich for a winter veggie punch Use leftover holiday cheeses like havarti or muenster
Save For one final touch, serve each sandwich fresh and hot so the cheese melts perfectly and the stuffing waffle stays crisp. Kids and grownups alike will ask for seconds as soon as they taste it.
Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep stuffing waffles crisp?
Keep the waffles warm in a low oven and quickly toast before assembling for added crunch.
- → Can I use other meats besides turkey?
Yes, ham or roasted vegetables are delicious substitutes for turkey.
- → Is cheese necessary in this sandwich?
Cheese is optional but adds creamy texture; try brie or gouda for a gourmet touch.
- → Which sauces work best for this creation?
Cranberry sauce and gravy provide sweetness and richness, balancing the savory waffles and turkey.
- → What sides pair well with these sandwiches?
Serve with crisp apple cider, a light white wine, or fresh salad to complement the flavors.
- → How do I avoid hidden allergens?
Check pre-made stuffing and gravy for ingredients that may contain gluten, dairy, or other allergens.