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This hearty turkey melt sandwich has been my cold-weather lunch solution for years. The combination of melty cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables creates the perfect balance of comfort and nutrition when you need something substantial yet easy to prepare.
I started making these turkey melts when looking for ways to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey, but they became so popular in my household that we now make them year-round with deli turkey. My teenagers actually request these instead of fast food when they have friends over.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread: provides the perfect sturdy base and tangy flavor that holds up to grilling
- Honey mustard: adds a sweet tangy kick that complements the savory elements
- White cheddar cheese: creates that perfect melty texture and sharp flavor
- Deli turkey: offers lean protein without overpowering other ingredients
- Fresh tomato slices: bring juicy brightness to each bite
- Baby spinach: adds nutrition and a fresh element to balance the richness
- Crispy bacon: delivers the smoky crunch that makes this sandwich irresistible
- Butter: for grilling creates that golden exterior that makes a perfect melt
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Assemble the Base:
- Lay out all four bread slices on a flat surface and spread each with honey mustard. This creates a flavor foundation and helps prevent the bread from getting soggy from the vegetables.
- Layer the Cheese:
- Divide the cheese slices and place one portion on each slice of bread. Putting cheese next to the bread on both sides ensures it melts properly and acts as a barrier for the moister ingredients.
- Add the Protein Layers:
- Place turkey slices on two of the bread pieces, creating your sandwich bottom. The turkey should be evenly distributed so each bite has the perfect amount of protein.
- Add Fresh Vegetables:
- Layer tomato slices and fresh spinach on top of the turkey. The tomato adds juiciness while the spinach provides color, nutrition, and a subtle earthy flavor that balances the richness.
- Add the Bacon:
- Place your cooked bacon strips on the remaining two slices of bread (the ones without turkey). The bacon should be fully cooked but not overly crisp as it will cook a bit more during grilling.
- Close and Butter the Sandwiches:
- Carefully close the sandwiches by placing the bacon-topped halves face-down onto the turkey-topped halves. Spread the outer sides of each sandwich with butter, making sure to cover the bread completely from edge to edge.
- Grill to Perfection:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat until warm but not smoking. Place the assembled sandwiches in the pan and grill for 3 to 4 minutes until golden brown. Flip carefully and grill the other side until the cheese is completely melted and the bread is toasted to golden perfection.
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My absolute favorite ingredient in this sandwich is the sourdough bread. I discovered the difference quality bread makes when I started buying from a local bakery instead of the supermarket. The complex flavor and sturdy texture elevate the entire sandwich experience and really hold up to all the fillings without getting soggy.
The Perfect Cheese Selection
While the recipe calls for white cheddar, dont be afraid to experiment with different cheese varieties. Provolone offers a mild flavor that melts beautifully, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the honey mustard. For an elevated experience, try combining two different cheeses like sharp cheddar and Swiss for complex flavor and optimal meltability. Remember that freshly sliced cheese from a block or the deli counter truly makes a difference in both taste and melting quality compared to pre-packaged slices.
Make-Ahead Tips
These sandwiches work beautifully for meal prep with a few simple adjustments. Prepare the sandwiches up to the butter stage, then wrap individually in parchment paper and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, simply heat your skillet and grill as directed. For office lunches, fully cook the sandwiches in the morning, wrap in foil, and reheat in a toaster oven for 5 minutes at lunch. The flavors actually develop nicely as they rest, creating an even more delicious result.
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Serving Suggestions
Transform this sandwich into a complete meal by pairing it with complementary sides. A cup of tomato soup creates the classic comfort food combination perfect for rainy days. For a lighter option, serve with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the melt. During summer months, potato chips and pickle spears add the perfect crunch factor, while a fruit salad provides a refreshing contrast to the savory sandwich.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any thick, crusty bread like whole wheat, rye, or ciabatta for your turkey melt.
- → How can I make this sandwich dairy-free?
Swap out the cheddar cheese and butter for your favorite dairy-free alternatives to enjoy this sandwich without dairy.
- → What other fillings can I add?
You can customize your turkey melt with options like avocado slices, caramelized onions, or a variety of cheeses for extra flavor.
- → How do I prevent the sandwich from getting soggy?
Make sure to pat the tomato slices dry and assemble the sandwich just before toasting to maintain its crispness.
- → Can I meal prep this sandwich in advance?
While the sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can pre-cook the bacon and assemble the ingredients ahead of time. Toast it just before serving for the best results.