What better way to celebrate than by recreating a classic favorite with a twist? Inspired by Subway’s seasonal offering, the Thanksgiving Sandwich, we’ve made a Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich recipe that’s sure to become a new holiday tradition in your home.
Table of Contents
How to make a Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich
Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich (part of the Festive Feast lineup) is a limited-time holiday sub that features classic Thanksgiving flavors in sandwich form.
Ingredients
- Bread: Subway’s signature bread is perfect for this sandwich. Use Italian bread, hearty multigrain, or even ciabatta rolls for an authentic touch.
- Turkey: Opt for sliced oven-roasted turkey breast (deli-style or Thanksgiving leftovers).
- Ham (optional but recommended): Add thin slices of Black Forest ham for that protein-packed punch.
- Rotisserie-Style Chicken (optional if replicating Subway TurHamKen): A few shredded pieces of rotisserie chicken provide that triple-meat effect.
- Stuffing: Use your favorite stuffing recipe or store-bought stuffing, slightly warmed.
- Cranberry Sauce: Sweet, tangy cranberry sauce is a must for this sandwich. Canned or homemade both work well.
- Spinach Leaves: A layer of fresh baby spinach adds color, texture, and a healthy crunch.
- Red Onions: Thin slices of red onions for sharp, tangy contrast.
- Swiss cheese or provolone for a melty effect.
- Mayonnaise or a honey-mustard sauce for extra creaminess.
- Pickles or banana peppers if you’re craving extra tang or spice.
Instructions
Follow these steps to build your Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich:
1. Prepare the Bread: Slice your chosen bread lengthwise without cutting all the way through—this creates that classic sandwich base typical of Subway. Lightly toast it in the oven for 2-3 minutes until warm and slightly crispy.
2. Layer the Proteins: Start by layering 3-4 slices of oven-roasted turkey breast along the base of the bread. Next, evenly layer 2-3 slices of Black Forest ham. If you’re adding rotisserie chicken, sprinkle a handful of shredded chicken on top of the ham.
3. Add the Stuffing: Take a small scoop of warm stuffing (approximately ¼ cup) and spread it across the proteins. Be careful not to overload it, as the stuffing can make the sandwich fall apart.
4. Cranberry Sauce Magic: Spread 1-2 tablespoons of cranberry sauce on the top half of the bread or drizzle it over the stuffing. Its sweet and tart flavor ties the sandwich together beautifully.
5. Layer Fresh Greens and Veggies: Add a handful of baby spinach leaves for a fresh crunch. Layer thinly sliced red onions to balance the sweetness of the cranberries.
6. Optional: Place 2-3 slices of Swiss or provolone cheese over the top. Return the sandwich to the oven for 2-3 minutes until the cheese gets perfectly melty.
7. Assemble & Serve: Gently close the sandwich and press it down slightly to hold the ingredients in place. Slice the sandwich in half diagonally for easy handling, and serve warm.
Tips for Making the Perfect Thanksgiving Sandwich
- Bread Selection Matters: While Subway offers multiple bread options, you can elevate your creation with artisan bakery bread. For traditional holiday vibes, try sourdough, or go for a hearty grain loaf for extra nutrition.
- Use Leftovers Creatively: This sandwich is the ultimate way to reinvent your Thanksgiving leftovers. Mashed potatoes or gravy can even be added for an extra touch of comfort.
- Keep It Balanced: Avoid overloading your sandwich with too many wet ingredients (e.g., cranberry sauce, stuffing). Stick to modest portions for a sandwich that’s packed with flavor but easy to eat.
- Make Your Own Add-Ons: Want to elevate the recipe? Try making your cranberry sauce from scratch or whip up a quick herbed mayonnaise by mixing mayo with a pinch of sage, thyme, and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
- Reheat Thoughtfully: If you’re using leftovers, gently reheat turkey, stuffing, or other items so they stay moist and tender. Use an oven over a microwave to avoid drying them out.
What to serve with
A Subway Thanksgiving sandwich is already packed with hearty holiday flavors, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal to a whole new level.
1. Soups
Pairing your Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich with a warm, comforting soup creates a perfect cold-weather meal.
Best Options:
- Butternut Squash Soup: The creamy, slightly sweet flavor of butternut squash complements the savory turkey and tangy cranberry sauce beautifully. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra holiday cheer.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: A rich, hearty tomato soup provides a familiar pairing and a subtle tang to balance the sweet and salty sandwich flavors.
- Potato and Leek Soup: This mild, velvety soup is filling and works well alongside the sandwich’s all-star ingredients. Plus, it ties into classic holiday flavors.
2. Side Salads
Balance the richness of the Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich with a crisp, fresh salad. Choose ingredients that complement the sandwich’s flavour profile.
Best Options:
- Spinach and Cranberry Salad: Incorporate baby spinach (mirroring the sandwich greens), dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and a vinaigrette dressing for a light and refreshing side.
- Fall Harvest Salad: Include roasted sweet potatoes, pecans, apples, and goat cheese. The combination of sweet, tangy, and nutty flavors pairs well with the Thanksgiving theme.
- Coleslaw: A creamy, tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the sandwich layers.
Ingredients Substitutes
Recreating a Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich at home is all about flexibility and creativity.
1. Bread Substitutes
The bread is the foundation of your sandwich, and while Subway offers options like Italian, multigrain, or ciabatta, you can get creative with what you have on hand.
Substitute Options:
- Whole Wheat Bread: Great for a healthier alternative to white breads.
- Sourdough Loaf: Adds a tangy flavor that complements the savory sandwich ingredients.
- Baguette: Perfect for a crisp and chewy texture.
- Gluten-Free Bread/Roll: If you’re gluten-sensitive, look for gluten-free bread brands like Schär or Udi’s.
- Wraps/Tortillas: Turn your sandwich into a Thanksgiving wrap with flour, spinach, or tomato tortillas.
- Flatbreads: Try using naan, pita bread, or focaccia for a gourmet twist.
2. Protein Substitutes
The classic sandwich includes turkey as the star protein, but you can play around with other meats or plant-based alternatives to customize it your way.
Turkey Alternatives:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Shredded chicken works perfectly if you’re out of turkey or prefer a juicier option.
- Ham: Thin slices of glazed ham offer a salty and slightly sweeter alternative to turkey.
- Roast Beef: Adds a bold flavour for a non-traditional twist.
- Duck or Goose: For a fancier holiday variation, smoked or roasted duck/goose fits the bill.
Meatless Alternatives:
- Tofu: Use seasoned, grilled, or baked tofu as a protein-packed plant-based substitute.
- Tempeh: Marinate and pan-sear tempeh for a hearty, savory option.
- Seitan: Ideal for replicating the texture of turkey or chicken in vegan recipes.
- Vegan Deli Slices: Brands like Tofurky or Lightlife offer turkey-style slices that work perfectly in this sandwich.
3. Stuffing Substitutes
Stuffing is what gives the sandwich its Thanksgiving flair, but if you don’t have stuffing readily available, there are other grain or vegetable options you can use.
Substitute Options:
- Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Adds a creamy texture and a touch of sweetness.
- Cooked Quinoa or Farro: For a healthier option, use seasoned grains. Mix them with herbs to replicate stuffing flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Use diced roasted squash, sweet potatoes, or carrots as a flavorful, veggie-packed alternative.
- Savory Bread Crumbs: Lightly toasted bread crumbs with herbs and butter can mimic the stuffing flavor if you’re in a pinch.
- Polenta or Grits: A soft layer of polenta or grits can recreate the moist filling texture.
4. Cranberry Sauce Substitutes
Cranberry sauce adds sweet and tangy notes that tie the whole sandwich together. If you’re looking for substitutes, consider these alternatives.
Substitute Options:
- Cranberry Jam or Jelly: A store-bought jam works just as well if you’re out of sauce.
- Lingonberry Jam: A Scandinavian twist with sweet-tart berry flavors similar to cranberry.
- Pomegranate Salsa: Mix pomegranate seeds with lime juice and honey for a fresh fruity alternative.
- Chutney: A fruit-based chutney (like apple or mango) offers sweetness with a hint of spice.
- Relish: Use a tangy relish (such as a classic pickle or onion relish) to balance flavors with a slight kick.
5. Greens Substitutes
Spinach is the go-to fresh green for this sandwich, but there’s no need to stick to just spinach—other leafy veggies or fresh herbs work too!
Substitute Options:
- Arugula: Its peppery flavor adds a gourmet feel to your sandwich.
- Kale: Lightly massaged kale leaves provide a hearty green option.
- Romaine Lettuce: For a crisp and refreshing addition.
- Cabbage: Thinly shredded cabbage adds crunch and works as a mild alternative.
- Herbs: Use fresh parsley, cilantro, or basil as vibrant, aromatic replacements.
6. Cheese Substitutes
Cheese is optional for some, but if you’re adding it, feel free to switch it up depending on your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Substitute Options:
- Cheddar: A sharper cheese for a stronger flavor.
- Mozzarella: A mild, melty alternative perfect for a lighter touch.
- Vegan Cheese: Brands like Violife, Daiya, or Follow Your Heart make plant-based slices that melt beautifully.
- Brie: Fancy it up with creamy brie for a gourmet touch.
- Goat Cheese: Soft and tangy goat cheese pairs wonderfully with cranberry sauce.
7. Sauce Substitutes
If you want to explore beyond cranberry sauce or add extra layers of flavor, you can try other spreads or condiments.
Substitute Options:
- Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy mustard adds zest to the sandwich.
- Gravy: A small drizzle of warm gravy feels indulgent and ties into Thanksgiving flavors.
- Aioli: Garlic or herbed aioli adds creaminess and depth.
- Hot Sauce: For spice lovers, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can lend a bold twist.
- Hummus: Slathering a layer of hummus adds a nutty, creamy quality that complements the greens and turkey.
8. Vegetable Substitutes
If red onions aren’t your favorite or you want to add even more vegetables, there are plenty of ways to boost the flavor and texture.
Substitute Options:
- Caramelized Onions: Bring out natural sweetness and add richness.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled peppers, carrots, or radishes offer a tangy crunch.
- Sliced Cucumbers: Fresh cucumbers add a mild refreshing flavor to the sandwich.
- Shredded Raw Carrots: Sweet and crunchy, carrots blend beautifully with holiday-inspired sandwiches.
Final Thoughts
There are endless possibilities when it comes to choosing sides for your Subway Thanksgiving Sandwich.
More Sandwich Recipes:
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