This Bobbie is all about texture and contrast: layers of tender thinly sliced turkey, savory prepared stuffing, and bright-tart cranberry sauce stacked into a compact flat packet so the flavors meld without soggy bread.
It takes minutes to assemble, freezes neatly, and is ready to eat after an overnight thaw or a quick blast in the microwave (1 minute 30 seconds) — perfect for busy post‑Thanksgiving meals or packing a no‑fuss lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A tidy, make-ahead way to turn Thanksgiving leftovers into individually portioned sandwiches that store flat in the freezer, save space, and reheat quickly.
Use the recipe card above for exact ingredients and the simple step‑by‑step assembly; the rest of this post covers best breads, reheating choices, and storage tips.
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make the Packets
- Lay out a 6”x8” piece of parchment paper. Overlap layers of thinly sliced turkey breast to roughly the size of your submarine loaf, creating an even layer.
- On top of the turkey layer, spread a large spoonful of prepared stuffing and a large spoonful of prepared cranberry sauce. Top with another 6”x8” piece of parchment paper to enclose the filling.
- Place the parchment-enclosed sandwich filling into a gallon-sized freezer bag, keep the package flat, squeeze out excess air, repeat to make additional packets, and freeze.
- When ready to enjoy, remove desired packets from the freezer and either defrost overnight in the refrigerator or microwave for 1 minute 30 seconds if you prefer a warm Bobbie; if microwaving from frozen, check and add short increments as needed.
Freeze Flat Packets
Assemble each sandwich between two 6”x8” pieces of parchment and slide it flat into a gallon-sized freezer bag. Keeping the packet flat saves space and prevents the filling from shifting.
Squeeze excess air from the bag, lay packets flat on a baking sheet to firm in the freezer if needed, then stack them. This keeps packets from deforming and reduces freezer burn.
- Use stiff parchment so the packet stays flat while moving it into the bag.
- For firmer packets, freeze single-layer for 1–2 hours before stacking.
- Label each bag with contents and date; best quality within 2–3 months.
Best Breads & Fixings
Choose a sturdy roll or a submarine loaf that can handle moist filling — crusty rolls, kaiser buns, or hoagie rolls are ideal. Slicing the roll slightly stale or toasting it helps prevent sogginess.
If you like add‑ins, spread a thin layer of mayo, grainy mustard, or softened butter on the roll before adding the filling. Optional extras: sharp cheddar, sliced pickles, or a handful of arugula for peppery contrast.
- Stout rolls hold up best; soft, airy buns may fall apart.
- Add cheese before grilling or pressing so it melts into the filling.
- For a lighter bite, swap the roll for sturdy lettuce wraps or open‑face toast after thawing.
Microwave vs Panini
Microwave: For the fastest option, defrost overnight and reheat the packet in the microwave for 1 minute 30 seconds (or thaw first and warm briefly). From frozen, use short increments after the initial 1 minute 30 seconds to avoid hot spots.
Panini/Press: If you prefer a crisp exterior and melted cheese, assemble the sandwich on a thawed roll and press it in a hot panini press or skillet until the bread is golden and the filling is warmed through. For a pressed, grilled texture and extra flavor, see the Day After Thanksgiving Panini for inspiration and technique: Day After Thanksgiving Panini.
- Microwave is fastest and keeps sandwiches soft; panini gives texture and melds flavors.
- If microwaving, place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely to retain moisture.
- For panini, brush the outside of the roll with a little butter or oil for even browning.
Tips for Success
Flatten and label: Keep each packet flat inside the bag, squeeze out extra air before sealing, and write the assembly date on the bag to track freezer time.
Prevent sogginess: Because the filling is moist, toast or press the sandwich after thawing on a sturdy roll so it holds together and gains a pleasant crust.
Microwave safety: If microwaving from frozen, stop and check after the recipe’s 1 minute 30 seconds and continue in 15‑30 second bursts until evenly warmed.
Portion control: Make packets sized to your rolls or sub loaf so you can assemble the sandwich straight from the thawed packet without extra reshaping.
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More Recipes with Leftover Turkey
Frequently Asked Questions
Make Thanksgiving Leftovers Work for You
With a little advance packing, a Bobbie packet becomes a grab-and-go meal that keeps the holiday flavors intact and frees up time during the busy week after Thanksgiving.
Try one of the linked leftover recipes for variety, and keep a stack of frozen Bobbies on hand for easy lunches and quick dinners.
Leftover Turkey: “The Bobbie” Thanksgiving Sandwich
Equipment
- parchment paper
- gallon-sized freezer bag
Ingredients
- turkey thinly sliced
- stuffing prepared
- cranberry sauce prepared
Instructions
- Lay out a 6″x8″ piece of parchment paper. Overlap layers of thinly sliced turkey breast to roughly the size of your submarine loaf, creating an even layer.
- On top of the turkey layer, spread a large spoonful of prepared stuffing and a large spoonful of prepared cranberry sauce. Top with another 6″x8″ piece of parchment paper to enclose the filling.
- Place the parchment-enclosed sandwich filling into a gallon-sized freezer bag, keep the package flat, repeat to make additional packets, and freeze.
- When ready to enjoy, remove desired packets from the freezer and either defrost overnight in the refrigerator or microwave for 1 minute 30 seconds if you prefer a warm Bobbie.
