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 our home during holiday seasons and is a perfect way to use leftovers deliciously.
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 Making this sandwich always brings back cozy family lunch memories especially during the holidays.
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 delicious and comforting sandwich as a quick lunch or a satisfying snack anytime.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute the turkey with other proteins?
Yes, chicken or rotisserie chicken make excellent alternatives, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
- → What cheese works best for this melt?
Provolone and mozzarella melt smoothly, but Swiss, cheddar, or gouda can provide distinctive flavors.
- → Is pesto safe for nut allergies?
Pesto often contains pine nuts; check ingredient labels or use nut-free versions if allergies are a concern.
- → How do I achieve a crispy, golden bread crust?
Spread softened butter on the outer sides of the bread and cook over medium heat, pressing gently until golden brown.
- → Can I use different bread types for this melt?
Whole wheat, multigrain, or sourdough breads all work well and add texture and fiber.