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.
I first enjoyed this sandwich during the holidays and it quickly became a family favorite for quick lunches and leftover turkey use.
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 This sandwich always brings smiles at family meals especially when paired with a simple green salad or sweet potato fries.
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
Per serving: Calories 480 Total Fat 24 g Carbohydrates 37 g Protein 28 g
Save Enjoy this flavorful sandwich warm for a delicious and quick meal any day of the week.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Swiss, cheddar, or gouda cheeses work well and add distinct flavor profiles to the melt.
- → What can I substitute for turkey?
Chicken or rotisserie chicken slices make excellent alternatives for the protein layer.
- → Is it better to use homemade or store-bought pesto?
Both options are great; homemade pesto offers fresh herb flavors while store-bought provides convenience.
- → How should I cook the sandwich to ensure even melting?
Cook on medium heat pressing gently for about 3–4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese melts evenly.
- → What bread types complement this sandwich best?
Sourdough shines here, but whole wheat or multigrain breads add extra texture and fiber.