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This turkey melt combines layers of deli turkey, sharp cheddar cheese, fresh spinach, and crispy bacon, all nestled between buttery sourdough bread. Grilled to golden perfection, the sandwich offers a delicious balance of textures and flavors—melty cheese, juicy turkey, and crisp bacon. Spread with honey mustard and cooked gently in butter, it’s a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Pair it with a warm soup or salad to complete your satisfying meal.
I first made this when I had a fridge full of post-holiday extras and no energy to cook. Now I keep deli turkey and cheese on hand just for this sandwich.
Ingredients
- Sourdough bread: provides a perfect crunchy texture and holds up to melting, so your sandwich is sturdy without getting soggy
- Honey mustard: brings a little tangy sweetness that ties everything together and adds a bright contrast to richness
- White cheddar cheese: melts smoothly and adds sharp flavor that balances the other ingredients
- Deli turkey: is easy and lean or use holiday leftovers for a deeper taste that feels hearty without heaviness
- Fresh tomato slices: give a bit of acidity and juiciness to keep the sandwich from feeling too dense
- Baby spinach: adds freshness and color to lighten each bite with a subtle earthiness
- Cooked bacon: adds smoky crunch and richness for that classic melt flavor and texture
- Butter: helps achieve a golden crust when grilled, making every bite crispy and delicious
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Place four slices of sourdough on a flat surface. Spread a portion of honey mustard evenly on the top side of each slice to flavor the entire sandwich from edge to edge. This creates a flavorful barrier that balances the savory layers.
- Add Cheese:
- Cut your cheddar slices in half to create four pieces. Place one piece on each slice of bread to ensure every bite is cheesy. Freshly slicing cheese is best for melt and flavor.
- Layer the Turkey and Veggies:
- On two slices of bread, layer turkey slices evenly. Add a few thin tomato slices and a small handful of baby spinach for balance and brightness. This builds freshness and depth in your sandwich.
- Add Bacon and Close:
- On the remaining two slices of bread, add cooked bacon over the cheese. Close the sandwiches by combining the bacon side with the turkey side so the cheese frames everything inside. This locks in all the fillings beautifully.
- Butter and Toast:
- Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich. Warm a skillet over medium heat and cook each sandwich until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. Flip once to toast both sides evenly. Take your time here for best results—slow heat ensures perfect melting without burning.
Freshly sliced cheese is my secret to making this sandwich unforgettable. I once used prepackaged slices in a hurry and it just didn’t hit the same. Now I always slice it fresh or ask the deli to do it for me, and the difference in melt and flavor is worth the extra step.
Storage Tips
This sandwich is best hot off the pan, but you can store leftovers wrapped in foil in the fridge for one day. Reheat in a skillet for a few minutes on each side to crisp it back up and revive the crunchy crust.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use whole wheat or rye bread if you want more texture and a nuttier flavor to the base. Try Swiss or gouda for a different cheese profile with smooth melt and mild taste. Sub arugula or baby kale for spinach if you prefer a peppery or more robust green.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs beautifully with tomato soup or creamy potato leek for a comforting meal. Serve with kettle chips or a quick green salad for something light and crisp alongside. Add a dill pickle spear for extra crunch and a little tangy bite.
Pair it with a warm soup or salad to complete your satisfying meal.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → What bread works best for the turkey melt?
Thick, crusty breads like sourdough provide a sturdy base and toast nicely for a golden, buttery crust.
- → Can I substitute cheddar cheese?
Yes, other melty cheeses such as Swiss or provolone work well depending on your flavor preference.
- → How do I prevent the bread from burning during toasting?
Cook on medium heat and watch carefully to melt the cheese without over-browning the bread.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Absolutely, use dairy-free cheese and butter substitutes to maintain the flavor while accommodating dietary needs.
- → Can leftover holiday turkey be used?
Yes, leftover turkey is great; just toast the sandwich a little longer to ensure it's heated through.