Thanksgiving Leftover Brunch With Tips From The Pros

The fact that we're already thinking about what we can eat the day after Thanksgiving is just ridiculous, but we're doing it anyway. Here's the question we ask — what do you do with all of those leftovers? Well, besides making a killer sandwich , what about repurposing everything from the turkey to the cranberry sauce for a day-after brunch? 

There's no doubt that you'll be exhausted after a day of cooking and eating, so let's make it easy and simple with these awesome ideas from the pros:

Chef Spencer Rubin, Melt Shop, New York City
Leftover Brunch Dish:
"The Thanksgiving Dinner" grilled cheese
This sandwich, a regular on the menu at Melt Shop's Chelsea location, features Brie, cranberry jam, turkey, and caramelized onions. It's the perfect inspiration to take that midnight turkey sandwich to the next level the day after by utilizing leftover turkey and cranberry sauce, while adding complementing ingredients like sautéed onions and Brie — feel free to add a fried egg to take the grilled cheese melt to a whole other level.

Chef Ashley James, Four Seasons Los Angeles
Leftover Brunch Dish: Bubble and Squeak Benedict with Cranberry Chipotle Remoulade
For a British twist on a Thanksgiving leftover recipe, top your bubble and squeak Benedict with a cranberry chipotle remoulade. Leftover cranberry sauce acts as a great base for this sweet and savory breakfast condiment and is made by combining the sauce with a touch of mayonnaise, chopped chipotle peppers, cilantro, green onion, and salt and pepper to taste.

Chef Michael Ferraro, Delicatessen and Macbar, New York City
Leftover Brunch Dish: Turkey Mac and Cheese
Created from all good things — turkey, pasta, sweet potatoes, and loads of cheese — this dish from chef Ferraro brings together your favorite comfort food flavors to create something bubbling and perfect for sharing.
 

For more on Thanksgiving, head to our Ultimate Guide!