Print

Cozy Open-Faced Turkey Sandwich Recipe with Easy Rich Gravy

open-faced turkey sandwich - featured image

A comforting open-faced turkey sandwich topped with a rich, homemade gravy that soaks into rustic bread, perfect for cozy nights and quick meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Thick-sliced rustic bread (sourdough or country loaf)
  • 6 ounces cooked turkey breast, sliced or shredded (leftover or freshly cooked)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting and flavor)
  • Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 cups pan drippings or turkey stock (homemade or store-bought)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for the roux)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (to create the roux base)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Spread 1 tablespoon of butter on each side of the bread slices. Toast them in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color and develops a nutty aroma.
  3. Add Stock Gradually: Slowly pour in 2 cups of turkey stock or pan drippings while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  4. Season the Gravy: Stir in 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon garlic powder (if using), and 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for depth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the gravy simmer, whisking occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until thickened to a creamy consistency. If gravy gets too thick, stir in a splash of stock or water.
  5. Warm the Turkey: Place sliced or shredded turkey in the skillet just until heated through—about 2 minutes—so it stays moist without drying out.
  6. Assemble the Sandwich: Lay the toasted bread on plates. Pile the warm turkey on top, then generously ladle the rich gravy over everything. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
  7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy while the bread is still crisp on the edges and the gravy is warm and silky.

Notes

For gluten-free gravy, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch (same measurement) and whisk it in at the end to avoid lumps. Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free sandwich. For dairy-free, replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil and use dairy-free stock. To prevent lumps in gravy, whisk constantly and add stock gradually. Save pan drippings from roasted turkey for extra flavor. Let gravy rest off heat before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey sandwich, open-faced sandwich, rich gravy, comfort food, leftover turkey, easy dinner, cozy meal