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On chilly days nothing hits the spot quite like this ultimate turkey melt! I've perfected this recipe over countless lunches and it never disappoints. Picture golden sourdough bread stuffed with tender turkey crispy bacon fresh tomatoes bright spinach and melty cheddar cheese. It's pure comfort food magic especially when paired with your favorite soup.
What Makes This Sandwich Special
Think of this as your favorite grilled cheese all grown up and dressed to impress! I love how versatile it is you can switch up the bread cheese and toppings to create your perfect sandwich. Try it with smoked turkey add some spicy arugula or slather on some pesto. The possibilities are endless and they're all delicious!
Everything You'll Need
- Turkey: Deli turkey (or leftover holiday turkey, depending on availability; if using leftover turkey, you may need to toast longer on lower heat)
- Bacon: Crisped bacon slices (optional, but highly recommended for crunch and flavor)
- Cheddar Cheese: Fresh cheddar cheese (preferably sliced from a block for better melt and flavor)
- Spinach: Fresh leafy spinach (adds a fresh, mild taste and vibrant color)
- Tomatoes: Fresh juicy tomatoes (sliced thin for a balance of flavor and texture)
- Bread: Sourdough bread (or any crusty bread of your choice, toasted to golden perfection)
- Butter: Butter (for toasting the bread and adding a golden, crispy texture)
- Condiments: Honey mustard (or other condiments like mayo, pesto, or mustard based on preference)
Let's Make It
- Get Everything Ready
- Start by getting all your ingredients prepped slice those tomatoes and cheese wash your spinach and cook that bacon until it's perfectly crispy.
- Build Your Masterpiece
- Butter one side of each bread slice. On the inside layer up your turkey bacon cheese spinach and tomatoes. Spread your honey mustard on the other slice and close it up butter side out.
- Time to Toast
- Heat up your pan to medium add your sandwich and let it toast slowly. Press it down gently with your spatula to help everything melt together beautifully.
- The Final Touch
- When both sides are golden brown and that cheese is perfectly melty slice it in half and serve it right away. I love mine with a steaming bowl of tomato soup!
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My Secret Tips
I know you'll be tempted to rush but trust me take your time with the toasting! Keep your heat at medium so the cheese melts before the bread burns. And please splurge on good cheese from the deli or a fresh block it makes such a difference in both flavor and melt factor. Those pre-packaged slices just can't compare to freshly sliced cheese!
Common Questions About Cooking
- → Which type of cheese works best for melting?
Fresh-sliced cheddar from a block or deli counter melts better than pre-packaged slices. White cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can also use yellow cheddar or Swiss cheese.
- → Can I prep these sandwiches ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwiches up to 4 hours ahead, but don't butter the outside until ready to cook. Wrap them well and keep refrigerated. The bread might get slightly soggy from the tomatoes.
- → What's the best way to cook the bacon?
Cook bacon before assembling sandwiches. Either pan-fry until crispy or bake in the oven at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes. Drain on paper towels to keep it crispy.
- → What sides go well with this sandwich?
This melt pairs perfectly with tomato soup, potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. For a lighter option, try cucumber slices or pickles.
- → Can I make this healthier?
Use whole grain bread instead of sourdough, turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and reduce the amount of cheese. Add extra vegetables like cucumber or avocado for more nutrients.