If you’re searching for a sandwich that delivers a perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and tangy flavors all hugged by crispy, golden sourdough, this Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a delightful upgrade on a classic melt, featuring tender turkey breast, sharp cheddar, and crisp bacon, making each bite a taste sensation that’s both comforting and irresistible. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, this sandwich checks all the boxes of satisfying, easy, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the basics right is key to nailing this melt. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in texture, flavor, and that perfect melty melt experience.
- Sourdough bread: Provides a sturdy yet airy base with a slightly tangy flavor that crisps beautifully when grilled.
- Turkey breast (4 ounces): Lean and tender, it adds savory protein that’s perfect for stacking.
- Cheddar cheese (2 slices): Sharp and creamy, creating that gooey melty goodness every sandwich dreams of.
- Cooked bacon (2 slices): Crispy with smoky notes, adding a delightful crunch and depth.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Essential for browning the bread to a golden perfection and adding richness.
- Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): Adds smooth moisture and a mild tang to keep every bite luscious.
- Dijon mustard (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle kick and brightens up the richness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of spice to balance flavors.
How to Make Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Bread with Flavors
Start by spreading mayonnaise on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. This layer will keep the bread moist and flavorful while toasting. Then, spread Dijon mustard over the mayo on one slice to introduce a gentle tang that cuts through the richness.
Step 2: Build the Layers with Care
Next, get your sharp cheddar slices on top of the mustard-coated bread. The cheese is the heart of the melt, so make sure it’s evenly spread to ensure every bite is gooey and cheesy. Add the crispy bacon over the cheddar, strategically layering the smoky crunch that gives the sandwich its unforgettable texture.
Step 3: Add the Turkey
Layer your turkey breast slices evenly over the bacon. This lean protein balances out the richer elements and adds a savory depth that keeps the meal hearty without being heavy.
Step 4: Close and Prepare to Cook
Top the turkey with the remaining bread slice, mayo side facing inward. This seals the flavors and helps the sandwich brown evenly on both sides when cooked.
Step 5: Heat and Butter the Pan
Warm a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter until it coats the surface. Butter is essential here, giving the sourdough its signature golden-brown crust and a slight richness that enhances the overall flavor.
Step 6: Grill the Sandwich
Place your sandwich in the hot skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on the first side, watching for a crispy, golden crust. Carefully flip it over and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. As it cooks, press down slightly with a spatula to help the cheese melt perfectly and the flavors meld together.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
Once both sides are beautifully toasted and the cheese has melted to perfection, remove the sandwich from the pan. Let it rest for a minute on a cutting board — this little pause helps keep everything together without spilling out—and then cut it in half to serve immediately.
How to Serve Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a handful of fresh baby greens, a few dill pickle slices, or a sprinkle of fresh cracked black pepper can elevate your sandwich visually and flavor-wise without overpowering the main event.
Side Dishes
Pair this melt with classic comfort sides such as crispy kettle-cooked chips, a tangy coleslaw, or even a comforting cup of tomato soup for that perfect cozy meal experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the melt as mini sliders for parties or cut into smaller triangles for a fun appetizer option. Wrapping it in parchment paper and tying with twine makes it a charming, portable lunch or picnic treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to two days. Keeping the sandwich well-sealed helps maintain moisture while preventing it from becoming soggy.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled sandwich (before cooking) wrapped well in plastic wrap and foil for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as directed for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or in a toaster oven until the bread crisps up and the cheese melts again. Microwaving might work but tends to soften the crispy bread.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this melt?
Absolutely! While sourdough provides a beautiful tang and sturdy texture, you can swap it for any hearty bread like rye, multigrain, or even ciabatta for your own twist.
What if I don’t have Dijon mustard?
No worries. You can substitute with yellow mustard or even a bit of spicy brown mustard to keep that tangy punch.
Is turkey breast necessary, or can I use a different meat?
This recipe works wonderfully with turkey, but chicken breast or even ham can be great alternatives depending on what you have on hand or your flavor preferences.
How can I make this melt vegetarian?
Try replacing the turkey and bacon with grilled portobello mushrooms or marinated tempeh and use a vegetarian cheddar to keep the same melty texture.
What’s the best way to ensure the cheese melts evenly?
Make sure to press the sandwich gently while grilling and cook over medium heat. Avoid turning up the heat too high, which can burn the bread before the cheese melts.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough Recipe truly transforms a simple sandwich into a treasured comfort food. Its layers of flavor and texture come together so effortlessly, making it a perfect meal anytime you crave something hearty and satisfying. So grab your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and treat yourself to this melt magic—you won’t regret it!
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Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 5m
- Total Time: 0h 15m
- Yield: 1 sandwich (serves 1)
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
The Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough is a warm, savory sandwich featuring layers of turkey breast, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese between slices of tangy sourdough bread. Enhanced with a spread of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard and grilled to golden perfection in butter, this melt is crispy on the outside and gooey inside, making it a perfect quick lunch or dinner option.
Ingredients
Bread and Spreads
- 2 slices sourdough bread
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon butter
Fillings
- 4 ounces turkey breast
- 2 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 slices cooked bacon
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Spread the mayonnaise evenly on one side of each slice of sourdough bread to add moisture and flavor.
- Add Dijon mustard: Spread the Dijon mustard on top of the mayonnaise on one of the bread slices to give a tangy kick.
- Layer cheddar cheese: Place the two slices of cheddar cheese over the mustard-coated bread slice, ensuring even coverage for good melt.
- Add bacon: Layer the cooked bacon slices on top of the cheddar cheese for a savory crunch.
- Place turkey: Arrange the turkey breast evenly over the bacon. Sprinkle black pepper over the turkey for added seasoning.
- Assemble sandwich: Top with the other slice of sourdough bread, mayo side facing inward, to complete the sandwich.
- Heat the skillet: Warm a skillet or frying pan over medium heat to prepare for grilling the sandwich.
- Melt butter: Add the butter to the pan and allow it to melt completely, coating the surface to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Cook first side: Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on one side until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip sandwich: Carefully turn the sandwich over and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the second side to brown.
- Press sandwich: While cooking, gently press down with a spatula to ensure even crisping and thorough cheese melting.
- Remove and rest: Once both sides are golden brown and cheese is melted, take the sandwich off the heat and let it rest for one minute on a cutting board.
- Slice and serve: Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately while warm and melty.
Notes
- You can use pre-cooked bacon or cook it fresh for best texture and flavor.
- If you prefer, swap sourdough for your favorite sandwich bread.
- For a lower fat option, substitute butter with a light cooking oil spray.
- Ensure even layering of cheese and meats for consistent melt and taste.
- Serve with a side salad or chips for a complete meal.
