Smoked Turkey Cranberry Sub Recipe

Smoked turkey and cranberry sauce make an irresistible pairing that brings together savory, smoky, and sweet flavors in every bite. This sub is the perfect balance of hearty protein, creamy texture, and tangy fruitiness—a sandwich that feels festive yet simple enough to enjoy year-round. Whether for lunch, a quick dinner, or a picnic on the go, this Smoked Turkey Cranberry Sub delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

For the Sub:

  • 1 large sub or hoagie roll (whole wheat or white)
  • 5–6 slices smoked turkey breast (about 4 oz)
  • 2 slices provolone or Swiss cheese
  • 2–3 tablespoons cranberry sauce (whole-berry preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • A handful of mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, or lettuce)
  • 2–3 thin tomato slices
  • 2–3 thin cucumber slices
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ons:

  • Thin red onion rings
  • A few slices of avocado
  • Toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

5 minutes (optional toasting)smoked turkey sub, cranberry sandwich, turkey sandwich recipe, healthy lunch ideas, sandwich recipes, turkey and cranberry, holiday leftovers, Thanksgiving sandwich, quick lunch, easy dinner, healthy sub, turkey recipes, turkey protein, sandwich fillings, lean meat lunch, whole grain sandwich, fresh vegetables, deli sandwich, low-fat lunch, picnic sandwich, turkey breast, cranberry sauce recipe, homemade sandwich, family meals, meal prep, nutritious sandwich, comfort food, easy recipe, party food, quick recipe, protein-rich sandwich, holiday lunch, cranberry turkey combo, cheese sandwich, healthy eating, sandwich inspiration, gourmet sub, creamy sandwich, festive sandwich, turkey ideas, lunch recipes, classic sandwich, deli favorite, balanced meal, nutritious sub, sandwich creativity, leftover ideas, turkey lovers

Total Time:

15 minutes

Servings:

1 large sub sandwich

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the bread
Slice your sub roll in half horizontally, leaving one edge connected so the sandwich can fold neatly. Lightly toast it in a pan or toaster oven for 2–3 minutes if you prefer a warm, crisp base.

Step 2: Add condiments
Spread mayonnaise evenly on one side of the roll and Dijon mustard on the other. If you want a lighter version, replace mayo with Greek yogurt or leave it out altogether.

Step 3: Layer the ingredients
Start by placing the smoked turkey slices evenly along the bottom half of the roll. Add a layer of provolone or Swiss cheese on top. Next, spoon the cranberry sauce over the turkey and spread it gently to cover. The tart cranberry complements the smoky flavor of the turkey perfectly.

Step 4: Add vegetables
Place tomato and cucumber slices over the cranberry layer, followed by your choice of greens. If using avocado or red onion, add them now. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Press and serve
Close the sandwich, pressing gently to hold everything together. Slice it in half diagonally for easy serving. For a warm, melty version, place the assembled sandwich in a panini press or oven for 3–5 minutes, just until the cheese softens.

Flavor Tips

  • Homemade cranberry sauce brings a fresher taste and more texture than canned versions. Mix cranberries with a little orange zest for brightness.
  • Smoked turkey adds depth of flavor, but roasted or leftover Thanksgiving turkey also works beautifully.
  • Cheese choice matters—Swiss or provolone melts smoothly, while brie adds creamy richness for a gourmet twist.
  • Add crunch by layering nuts or toasting the bread with butter before assembling.

Nutritional Highlights

This sub packs a nutritious punch. Smoked turkey provides lean protein with minimal fat, helping you stay full and energized. Cranberries supply antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health. Whole-grain bread boosts fiber intake, aiding digestion and heart health. Together, these ingredients make the sandwich a balanced meal option that satisfies taste and nutrition.

Estimated Nutrition per Serving:

  • Calories: 430–480 (depending on bread and condiments)
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Fiber: 4 g

smoked turkey sub, cranberry sandwich, turkey sandwich recipe, healthy lunch ideas, sandwich recipes, turkey and cranberry, holiday leftovers, Thanksgiving sandwich, quick lunch, easy dinner, healthy sub, turkey recipes, turkey protein, sandwich fillings, lean meat lunch, whole grain sandwich, fresh vegetables, deli sandwich, low-fat lunch, picnic sandwich, turkey breast, cranberry sauce recipe, homemade sandwich, family meals, meal prep, nutritious sandwich, comfort food, easy recipe, party food, quick recipe, protein-rich sandwich, holiday lunch, cranberry turkey combo, cheese sandwich, healthy eating, sandwich inspiration, gourmet sub, creamy sandwich, festive sandwich, turkey ideas, lunch recipes, classic sandwich, deli favorite, balanced meal, nutritious sub, sandwich creativity, leftover ideas, turkey lovers

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve this sub with a side of sweet potato fries or mixed green salad for a wholesome meal.
  • Pair with sparkling water or iced tea with lemon for a refreshing complement.
  • For gatherings, slice into smaller portions and serve as party sandwiches on a platter.

Make-Ahead Option

You can prep ingredients ahead for quick assembly. Store sliced smoked turkey, vegetables, and cranberry sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply toast the bread, layer, and enjoy. This sub travels well for office lunches, road trips, or post-holiday meals made from leftovers.

The Perfect Seasonal Sandwich

This Smoked Turkey Cranberry Sub brings the warmth and comfort of holiday flavors into an everyday meal. The balance of smoky, savory turkey and bright cranberry sweetness makes it satisfying without being heavy. Whether it’s the day after Thanksgiving or a busy weekday lunch, this sub delivers that familiar, feel-good flavor in every bite.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

References: