Save A gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese: juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and aromatic pesto melded with melted cheese between golden, buttery bread. Perfect for using holiday leftovers or creating a hearty, flavorful lunch.
This sandwich quickly became a favorite in my family during holiday season gatherings and lunches.
Ingredients
- Bread & Spreads: 4 slices sourdough bread, 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened, 2 tbsp basil pesto (store-bought or homemade), 2 tbsp cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- Filling: 150 g (5 oz) cooked turkey breast thinly sliced, 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Lay out the bread slices. Spread butter on one side of each slice. Flip the slices and spread pesto on two slices and cranberry sauce on the other two slices (unbuttered sides).
- Step 2:
- On the pesto-spread slices, layer cheese turkey and then another slice of cheese. Top with the cranberry-spread bread slices buttered side facing outward.
- Step 3:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Step 4:
- Place sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side pressing gently until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
- Step 5:
- Remove let cool slightly slice in half and serve warm.
Save My kids love to help assemble this sandwich for a quick family lunch or snack.
Required Tools
Large skillet or griddle spatula bread knife
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread) Milk (cheese butter) Tree nuts (possible in pesto) Pesto may contain nuts and cheese check labels if allergies are a concern
Nutritional Information
Calories 480 Total Fat 24 g Carbohydrates 37 g Protein 28 g per serving
Save Enjoy this flavorful sandwich warm for the best melty cheese experience.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute turkey with other meats?
Yes, chicken or rotisserie chicken make excellent alternatives for a similar texture and flavor.
- → What types of cheese work best for this melt?
Provolone and mozzarella provide a perfect melt, but Swiss, cheddar, or gouda are tasty variations to try.
- → Is pesto safe for those with nut allergies?
Pesto often contains tree nuts, so check ingredients carefully or opt for nut-free pesto options.
- → What bread is recommended for this sandwich?
Sourdough bread is ideal for its sturdy texture and flavor, but whole wheat or multigrain are good alternatives.
- → How can I make the sandwich crispier?
Cook in a lightly buttered skillet over medium heat, pressing gently, until the bread is golden and crisp on both sides.