Copycat Arby’s Turkey Gobbler Sandwich Recipe

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I’ve always been a huge fan of transforming fast-food favorites into homemade masterpieces, and the Arby’s Turkey Gobbler is no exception. For me, this isn’t just a recipe—it’s a way to celebrate the flavors of the holiday season with a personalized touch.

How to make Arby’s Turkey Gobbler

The Arby’s Turkey Gobbler is a limited-time seasonal sandwich that Arby’s typically offers around Thanksgiving. It features roasted turkey as the main protein and is inspired by the flavors of a traditional holiday meal.

Ingredients

• Deep-fried turkey – 1/4 lb thick-cut turkey slices (You can opt for oven-roasted turkey or fried turkey from the store. For authenticity, deep-fry your own turkey slices.)
• Swiss cheese – 2 thick slices (any milder, creamy cheese works as a substitute).
• Onion straws – 1/4 cup (store-bought crispy fried onions work great).
• Savory stuffing – 1/3 cup (use your favorite homemade stuffing or pre-packaged stuffing mix).
• Cranberry spread – 2 tablespoons (can use whole berry cranberry sauce or make your own cranberry relish for extra zing).
• Mayonnaise – 1 tablespoon.
• Sub roll – 1 large, toasted roll (choose a soft baguette, hoagie roll, or any bread you like).
• Leafy greens (like baby spinach or lettuce, for freshness).
• A drizzle of gravy (for extra moisture).

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Turkey

If deep-frying turkey slices:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
2. Season turkey slices with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika for extra flavor.
3. Coat each slice with flour or your favorite breading mix (optional).
4. Fry turkey slices for 3–5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. For baked or oven-roasted turkey, simply slice pre-cooked turkey into thick strips and warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Spread

1. Combine cranberry sauce with a teaspoon of orange zest and a pinch of sugar if desired.
2. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
3. Homemade Tip: Make a quick cranberry sauce by simmering fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice until jammy. Let it cool before spreading on the sandwich.

Step 3: Toast the Sub Rolls

1. Slice the sub roll in half lengthwise. Spread a bit of butter on the cut sides.
2. Toast the roll on a griddle or skillet until lightly crispy and golden.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

1. Spread mayonnaise on one side of the toasted bread and the cranberry spread on the other.
2. Layer on the ingredients: Start with the savory stuffing, then deep-fried turkey slices, followed by Swiss cheese.
3. Top with crispy onion straws for crunch. Add leafy greens or a drizzle of gravy for extra layers of flavor (optional).
4. Close your sandwich and press lightly to hold everything in place.

Step 5: Warm It Up

If you want the cheese slightly melted:

1. Wrap the assembled sandwich in foil.
2. Heat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.

Tips for Success

• Choosing the Bread: Sub rolls or hoagie rolls work best because they hold all the ingredients without falling apart. Avoid thin or overly soft bread.
• Use Quality Turkey: Deep-frying turkey slices gives the Arby’s Turkey Gobbler sandwich an authentic crispy texture, but oven-roasted or store-bought turkey will work just as well if you’re short on time.
• Balancing Flavors: The cranberry spread adds a perfect sweetness and tang, so don’t skip it! You can adjust its flavour by adding orange juice or cinnamon for depth.
• Make It Extra Saucy: Adding gravy or a drizzle of turkey jus can make the sandwich even better, especially if you enjoy moist textures.
• Make It a Meal: Pair the Arby’s Turkey Gobbler sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries and apple cider for a seasonal treat.

Ingredients Substitutes

While making the beloved Arby’s Turkey Gobbler, you may want to tweak certain ingredients based on your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or what’s available in your pantry. The good news is that you don’t have to stick strictly to the original recipe.

Turkey Substitutes

1. Roasted Chicken

If turkey isn’t your favorite or readily available, you can use roasted chicken for a similar flavor profile.

Why It Works: Both poultry options have a mild flavor and tender texture, and roasted chicken pairs perfectly with cranberry sauce and stuffing.

How to Use: Slice or shred the chicken and lightly season with salt, pepper, and a touch of smoked paprika for that rich, turkey-like depth.

2. Rotisserie Turkey or Deli Turkey

Pre-cooked rotisserie turkey or thinly sliced turkey breast from your local deli are great time-saving options.

Why It Works: These options are convenient and come pre-seasoned.

How to Use: Simply warm the turkey slices on a skillet to avoid serving the Arby’s Turkey Gobbler sandwich with cold meat.

3. Vegan or Plant-Based Substitutes

For a meatless alternative, try plant-based turkey slices or vegan deli meat.

Why It Works: Plant-based turkey substitutes are often seasoned to replicate the flavor of real turkey.

Recommended Brand: Look for brands like Tofurky or Field Roast for tasty vegan options.

Swiss Cheese Substitutes

1. Provolone

Provolone has a creamy, mild flavor similar to Swiss cheese and melts beautifully.

Why It Works: It’s easy to slice and has just the right amount of richness to complement the sandwich.

2. Gouda or Havarti

For a slightly smoky or buttery flavor, try gouda or havarti cheese.

Why It Works: Both cheeses add a deeper flavor profile without overwhelming the other ingredients.

3. Vegan Cheese

For a dairy-free option, go with a high-quality vegan cheese.

Why It Works: Brands like Violife or Follow Your Heart offer vegan cheeses that melt well and add a creamy texture to the sandwich.

Cranberry Spread Substitutes

1. Raspberry or Blackberry Jam

If you don’t have cranberry sauce, you can still get that sweet, tangy flavor by using raspberry or blackberry jam.

Why It Works: These fruit spreads offer a similar tartness and sweetness that complements the turkey and stuffing.

2. Apricot Preserves

For a slightly sweeter and more citrusy twist, opt for apricot preserves.

Why It Works: The light fruitiness enhances the savory ingredients in the gobbler.

3. Vegan Cranberry Sauce

Most cranberry sauces are vegan-friendly, but you can create your own with fresh cranberries, sugar, and orange juice.

Why It Works: Customizing your cranberry spread allows you to control sweetness and acidity to your liking.

Stuffing Substitutes

1. Mashed Potatoes

Replace stuffing with creamy mashed potatoes for a smoother texture.

Why It Works: Mashed potatoes add moisture and that same rich, starchy base to the sandwich.

2. Grain-Based Salads

Substitute classic stuffing with quinoa, wild rice, or couscous cooked with herbs, garlic, and onions.

Why It Works: These grains can capture the savory, herbaceous notes of stuffing without feeling heavy.

3. Bread Crumbs or Croutons

If you want to keep things simple, toss cubes of toasted bread or croutons in some chicken broth and Italian seasoning as a quick stuffing alternative.

Why It Works: It mimics the texture and flavor of traditional stuffing with fewer ingredients.

Crispy Onion Straws Substitutes

1. Caramelized Onions

Replace fried onion straws with rich, sweet caramelized onions for a slightly softer texture.

Why It Works: Caramelized onions add sweetness and depth that round out all the other flavors in the sandwich.

2. French Fried Onions

Use store-bought French’s crispy fried onions if you can’t make onion straws from scratch.

Why It Works: They’re pre-packed, easy to use, and offer the same crunchy texture Arby’s onion straws are famous for.

3. Sautéed Mushrooms

For an umami bomb, swap onion straws with sautéed mushrooms (like cremini or shiitake).

Why It Works: Mushrooms add a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with turkey and cranberry sauce.

Sub Roll Alternatives

1. Ciabatta Rolls

The chewy texture and rustic flavor of ciabatta make it an excellent substitute for a sub roll.

Why It Works: Its sturdy structure holds up against the stuffing and cranberry spread without falling apart.

2. Brioche Buns

For a touch of buttery sweetness, brioche buns are a great choice.

Why It Works: Brioche pairs well with the savory filling and adds a soft, fluffy bite.

3. Gluten-Free Bread

If you’re gluten-sensitive, opt for gluten-free sandwich rolls or bread.

Why It Works: Many gluten-free breads now mimic the soft texture of regular bread, making them perfect for hearty sandwiches.

Mayo Substitutes

1. Greek Yogurt

Use plain Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a creamy, tangy alternative.

Why It Works: It’s lighter and healthier while still providing a smooth texture to the sandwich.

2. Hummus

A thin layer of hummus works well instead of mayo.

Why It Works: Its nutty, savory taste enhances the overall flavor of the gobbler.

3. Vegan Mayo

Brands like Hellmann’s Vegan Mayo or Just Mayo offer dairy-free alternatives that mimic traditional mayonnaise.

Why It Works: Perfect for vegan-friendly versions of the Turkey Gobbler.

Final Thoughts

Pairing your homemade Arby’s Turkey Gobbler with the right sides, drinks, and desserts transforms the sandwich into a memorable, full-scale meal.

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• Copycat Trader Joe’s Chicken Gyoza Recipe
• Chicken Chips Recipe
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