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When it gets cool out and I’m craving something warm and comforting, I always whip up this turkey melt. It’s got crunchy sourdough, smoky turkey, salty bacon, some sharp cheddar, fresh spinach, and the pop of honey mustard. Every bite’s got a nice mix of gooey cheese and crispy outside. Sometimes I have it with tomato soup, but honestly, this sandwich holds up just fine on its own for a satisfying, no-fuss meal.
First time I made this, I’d just come in from a cold walk. Now it’s what we make when the weather’s chilly and we want something easy for lunch. Leftovers? Nope. Everyone always grabs seconds.
Tasty Ingredients
- Butter: It should be soft so you can spread it easily—makes the crust super crispy
- Cooked bacon: Go with thick slices; just cook until almost crunchy so it stays chewy after the toast
- Fresh baby spinach: Toss in a handful for a pop of color and a fresh bite—grab the brightest leaves
- Red tomato: Sliced thin for some juicy tang; try to pick a firm one so it holds together
- Deli turkey: Try smoked turkey for deeper flavor, or get yours thin-sliced for layers
- White cheddar cheese: Slice up your own for the best goo and flavor
- Honey mustard: Sweeps in a sweet-tart kick—use whatever kind you like best
- Sourdough or thick bread: Fresh bakery bread gives better bite and crunch
Delicious Step-by-Step
- Dig Out Your Pan:
- Warm up a big skillet on medium. Get that going while you stack everything so it’s good and hot for toasting.
- Spread on the Butter:
- Slather the soft butter on the outsides of all your bread slices. Get all the way to the edges for that perfect crunchy edge.
- Slap Down the Bacon:
- Lay out 2 strips of cooked bacon on one slice of bread that has cheese on it. Make sure it’s spread out so you get some in each bite.
- Top with Fresh Veggies:
- Pile some fresh spinach and tomato slices over the turkey side. Tuck in any loose spinach so it doesn’t sneak out while it cooks.
- Build the Sandwich:
- Close it all up, stacking bacon and veggies sides together with honey mustard in the middle. Makes all the flavors mingle.
- Layer On the Turkey:
- Add 2 slices of turkey on top of the cheese on half the bread. Press down a little so it all stays put.
- Add the Cheese:
- Lay a slice of white cheddar over each bread piece (on the honey mustard side). It’ll help glue all the fillings together as it melts.
- Spread Honey Mustard:
- Cover the top side of your bread with your honey mustard. Use a nice even thin layer to coat it to the edges for max flavor.
- Lay Out Bread:
- Put all your slices down on the counter so you can line everything up. Have your butter ready to go and all fillings nearby.
- Flip and Finish Off:
- Carefully flip those sandwiches, cooking until the other side is golden and the cheese is all melted—3 to 4 minutes more.
- Serve and Dig In:
- Take them out hot, give them a slice if you like, and eat right away while the cheese is still stretchy and the outside’s crisp.
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The little burst of sweet and tangy honey mustard is the best part for me. Reminds me of my dad sneaking an extra dollop on his and joking about nailing the perfect combo.
Storing leftovers
Got extras? Wrap them tight in foil and pop in the fridge. For that crispy bite again, toast them in the skillet or a toaster oven. They’re best when fresh, but they’ll last about a day this way.
Alternatives for Ingredients
Swap out cheddar for provolone or Swiss if you’re wanting something else gooey. For lighter bites, turkey bacon and wheat bread totally work. A few slices of red onion or fresh arugula kicked up the flavor last time I tried it.
Fun pairings
Try these sandwiches with some tomato soup or a green salad for a classic vibe. Chips or pickles on the side bring extra crunch. Cut into quarters for snacky get-togethers or game nights.
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Background tidbits
Grilled sandwiches like this one are a longtime American lunch favorite. Turkey melts are awesome for using up leftover turkey after big family meals, but they’re just as at home in lunch spots or right at your table. The combo of crisp bread and gooey cheese never gets old.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Definitely! Any crusty bread works, like multigrain or ciabatta, since they'll hold everything together after toasting.
- → Is there a substitute for white cheddar?
Sure thing. Go with Colby Jack, Swiss, or provolone. Freshly sliced cheese always melts nicest.
- → How do I make this dairy-free?
Pick up dairy-free cheese slices plus a plant-based butter and you'll keep the tasty vibe without dairy.
- → What sides pair well with this sandwich?
It's great with a leafy salad, crispy oven fries, or classic tomato soup—whichever feels right.
- → Can the sandwich be prepared ahead?
You can stack it up a few hours before, then toast when you're ready so the bread stays crisp and the cheese gets gooey.