Smoked Turkey Grilled Cheese (Printable)

A savory grilled sandwich with smoked turkey, sharp cheddar, and cranberry spread melted on golden toasted bread.

# Ingredient List:

→ Sandwich

01 - 4 slices hearty sandwich bread, sourdough or whole wheat
02 - 4 oz smoked turkey breast, thinly sliced
03 - 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, sliced or shredded

→ Cranberry Spread

04 - 3 tablespoons cranberry sauce, whole berry or jellied
05 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

→ For Grilling

06 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

# Steps:

01 - Combine cranberry sauce and Dijon mustard in a small bowl, mixing until well blended.
02 - Lay out all bread slices and spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. Place buttered sides down on work surface.
03 - Spread the cranberry mixture evenly on the unbuttered side of two bread slices.
04 - Top the cranberry-spread slices with smoked turkey and cheddar cheese in even layers.
05 - Place the remaining bread slices on top with buttered sides facing outward, creating two complete sandwiches.
06 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until preheated.
07 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread achieves golden brown color and cheese melts completely.
08 - Remove sandwiches from pan and let rest for 1 minute. Slice diagonally and serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It tastes like the holidays but doesn't need a special occasion or any fuss.
  • The sweet and tangy cranberry cuts through the richness of melted cheese in a way that feels just right.
  • You can make it in under 20 minutes with ingredients you probably already have.
  • It's nostalgic and comforting without being heavy or boring.
02 -
  • If your heat is too high, the bread will burn before the cheese melts, so keep it at medium and be patient.
  • Softening the butter first makes all the difference because cold butter tears the bread and doesn't spread evenly.
  • Pressing gently with the spatula helps the sandwich hold together and encourages even browning without squishing out the filling.
03 -
  • Let the sandwich rest for a full minute after grilling so the cheese firms up just enough to hold together when you slice it.
  • If you're making more than two sandwiches, keep the finished ones warm in a low oven while you cook the rest.
  • Use a cast iron skillet if you have one because it distributes heat evenly and gives you the best golden crust.
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