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Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough

Cheddar and bacon turkey melt on sourdough is a hot, golden-toasted sandwich with melty cheddar and crispy bacon. Turkey and cheddar are layered, then grilled on a skillet until each side is crisp and fully melted.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 780

Ingredients
  

Sourdough bread and spread
  • 8 sourdough bread
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise
Turkey, bacon, and cheese layers
  • 12 oz sliced deli turkey breast
  • 8 thick-cut bacon, cooked and crispy
  • 8 sharp cheddar cheese
Toppings and seasoning
  • 1 cup arugula or mixed greens
  • 8 ripe tomato sliced
  • 1 Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 1 cast iron skillet

Method
 

Cook the bacon
  1. Cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy, then drain and set aside so it stays crisp.
Prep the bread
  1. Spread softened unsalted butter on one side of each sourdough bread slice.
  2. Flip the bread over and spread Dijon mustard on half the slices and mayonnaise on the other half.
Assemble the melts
  1. Layer sliced deli turkey breast, crispy thick-cut bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese on the Dijon mustard side.
Grill until golden and melted
  1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and place the sandwiches butter-side down.
  2. Top with the mayonnaise-spread slices butter-side up.
  3. Cook 3-4 minutes per side, until golden and cheddar is fully melted.
Add fresh toppings and serve
  1. Open each sandwich and add arugula or mixed greens and tomato slices, then press closed and serve.

Notes

For the crispiest melt, keep the skillet at steady medium heat and press the sandwiches only lightly so the cheese melts without squeezing out. Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days; reheat in a skillet to re-crisp the bread (microwave softens it). Freezing is not recommended for best texture. For a lighter option, use reduced-fat cheddar and a smaller amount of mayo.