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Turkey Melt with Cheddar Bacon

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This turkey melt combines sliced deli turkey, creamy white cheddar, crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and ripe tomato on thick-cut sourdough bread brushed with honey mustard and butter. Grilled until golden brown and melted, it offers a comforting, savory meal ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for a quick dinner or lunch, it balances smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors.

Using softened butter and moderate heat helps achieve a perfect crisp crust without burning. Fresh cheddar ensures rich melting, while fresh spinach adds a light, vibrant touch. Great for leftover turkey, this sandwich is easy to assemble and satisfying to eat.

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Written By William
Last modified on Sat, 27 Sep 2025 12:27:38 GMT
A sandwich with chicken, bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese. Pin to Save
A sandwich with chicken, bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, and cheese. | cozybakinglife.com

This turkey melt with cheddar and bacon is a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting without fuss. The combination of sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, fresh spinach, and juicy tomato makes each bite flavorful and balanced. It uses simple ingredients but comes together in under 25 minutes, making it a go to for an easy dinner that feels special.

I first made this after finding leftover turkey in the fridge and wanted something different from a salad. Now it’s my kid’s favorite quick dinner request because of the crispy bacon and gooey cheddar.

Ingredients

  • Sourdough or thick cut crusty bread: sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without getting soggy
  • Honey mustard: adds a gentle tang and a hint of sweetness that brightens the sandwich
  • White cheddar cheese: meltable with a sharp flavor that complements turkey perfectly. Fresh slices melt better
  • Deli turkey breast: lean, savory protein that is mild yet flavorful
  • Tomato: thin slices add freshness and juiciness
  • Fresh baby spinach: adds a pop of green and subtle earthiness
  • Cooked bacon strips: crispy texture and smoky flavor add satisfying crunch
  • Unsalted butter: used for grilling the sandwich to a golden crisp without burning

Instructions

Spoon the Honey Mustard:
Lay out the sourdough bread slices on your prep surface. Spread half a tablespoon of honey mustard evenly on one side of each slice to gently flavor the bread.
Add Cheese and Turkey:
Place a half slice of white cheddar cheese on each bread slice. On half the slices, top the cheese with two slices of deli turkey breast carefully layered.
Layer Tomato and Spinach:
On the turkey covered slices, arrange thinly sliced tomato evenly. Follow with a quarter cup of fresh baby spinach leaves to add freshness and a touch of green.
Add Bacon and Assemble:
Place two strips of cooked bacon on the cheese only slices. Then close the sandwiches by pairing the bacon side with the turkey side, cheese facing the inside.
Butter the Outside:
Spread half a tablespoon of softened unsalted butter evenly on the outside of each slice of bread. This helps create that crispy, golden crust when grilled.
Grill to Perfection:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Press gently and watch for a golden brown crust and melted cheese inside.
Serve Warm:
Remove sandwiches from the skillet and serve immediately while the cheese is melty and the bacon is crisp. Pair with your favorite sides like chips, salad, or pickles.
A sandwich with bacon and cheddar cheese.
A sandwich with bacon and cheddar cheese. | cozybakinglife.com

I love the way the white cheddar melts into the turkey and how the smoky bacon cuts through the richness. This simple sandwich brings back memories of cozy nights when we’d gather around the table and share stories while enjoying something warm and filling.

Storage Tips

Store leftover sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep refrigerated for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to restore the crisp bread and melted cheese instead of the microwave which can make bread soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try gouda or swiss cheese if you want a milder or nuttier flavor. Use turkey bacon or ham if you prefer different smoky notes. Swap sourdough for whole wheat or a country white loaf depending on your texture preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crunchy potato chips, a crisp dill pickle, or a simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette for a fresh balance. This sandwich also pairs well with a cup of tomato soup for a classic combo.

A stack of three turkey melt sandwiches with bacon and cheese.
A stack of three turkey melt sandwiches with bacon and cheese. | cozybakinglife.com

This turkey melt is an easy weeknight hero that delivers melty cheese and smoky bacon in every bite. Make it your own with simple swaps and enjoy warm.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ What bread works best for this melt?

Thick-cut sourdough or crusty bread slices hold the ingredients well and toast nicely to a golden crust.

→ Can I substitute white cheddar with another cheese?

Sharp cheddar or mild cheddar can be used. Choose a cheese that melts smoothly and complements turkey and bacon flavors.

→ How do I avoid soggy bread in the sandwich?

Spread honey mustard and butter evenly, and grill over medium heat to toast the bread while melting cheese slowly, preventing sogginess.

→ Is it possible to use leftover turkey meat?

Yes, leftover turkey slices work wonderfully and make this sandwich a great way to enjoy holiday leftovers.

→ What cooking tools are recommended?

A large skillet or griddle with a spatula works best for even grilling and flipping the sandwiches easily.

→ How can I add extra flavor to this sandwich?

Try adding a light spread of honey mustard and layering fresh tomato and spinach for brightness and depth in every bite.

Turkey Melt with Cheddar Bacon

Toasty sandwich featuring turkey, cheddar, bacon, spinach, and tomato, perfect for a quick warm dinner.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Time for Cooking
10 minutes
Total Duration
25 minutes
Written By: William

Recipe Category: Dinners

Skill Level: Great for Beginners

Culinary Style: American

Servings: 2 Portion Count (2 sandwiches)

Dietary Preferences: ~

List of Ingredients

→ Bread and Spread

01 4 slices sourdough or thick-cut crusty bread
02 2 tablespoons honey mustard
03 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Cheese and Meat

04 2 slices white cheddar cheese, halved
05 4 slices deli turkey breast
06 4 strips cooked bacon

→ Produce

07 1 medium red tomato, thinly sliced
08 ½ cup fresh baby spinach leaves

Preparation Steps

Step 01

Place sourdough slices on a clean surface and evenly spread ½ tablespoon honey mustard on one side of each slice.

Step 02

Arrange half a slice of cheddar cheese on each bread slice. Top two slices with two slices of deli turkey each.

Step 03

Place the thinly sliced tomato and ¼ cup fresh spinach leaves over the turkey-covered bread slices.

Step 04

Lay two strips of cooked bacon on the remaining cheese-covered bread slices, then close the sandwiches by placing bacon-topped slices onto the tomato and spinach-covered slices.

Step 05

Spread ½ tablespoon softened unsalted butter on the outer side of each sandwich slice to prepare for grilling.

Step 06

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sandwiches for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 07

Remove sandwiches from the skillet and serve immediately with preferred accompaniments.

Additional Suggestions

  1. Use freshly sliced cheddar for optimal melt and flavor. Adjust skillet heat to prevent bread from burning before cheese melts. Leftover holiday turkey can be used, increasing grill time for thicker slices.

Must-Have Supplies

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula
  • Butter knife
  • Cutting board or plate

Allergen Details

Always check ingredient labels for allergens and consult with a professional if uncertain.
  • Contains dairy from cheddar cheese and butter
  • Contains gluten from sourdough bread

Nutritional Details (Per Portion)

This nutritional info is for general guidance and not a substitute for expert advice.
  • Calories: 604
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Protein: 23 g