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Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough

This cheddar and bacon turkey melt on sourdough is everything a hot sandwich should be—crispy on the outside, gooey in the middle, and full of bold, savory flavor. It’s made with thick-cut sourdough, smoky bacon, roasted turkey, and sharp cheddar, all grilled to perfection. Ready in minutes and packed with protein, it's the ultimate comfort food for lunch or dinner.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 17 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories: 530

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices sourdough bread
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon
  • 6 –8 oz sliced turkey breast deli or leftover
  • 1 –2 tbsp mayo or garlic aioli optional
  • 1 tbsp butter softened

Method
 

  1. Butter the Bread – Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough.
  2. Assemble the Melt – On the unbuttered side, layer cheddar, turkey, bacon, and another slice of cheddar.
  3. Optional Spread – If using mayo or aioli, spread it inside the sandwich before grilling.
  4. Grill It Up – Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwiches butter-side-down.
  5. Press & Flip – Cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and cheese is melted.
  6. Serve Hot – Slice in half and serve immediately for the best melt experience.

Notes

Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough – Helpful Tips
Choose the Right Bread
Sourdough adds the perfect tangy bite and holds up beautifully when grilled.
• Want a twist? Try thick-sliced multigrain, Texas toast, or rye for different flavor profiles.
Crispy, Flavorful Bacon Every Time
• Cook bacon until crispy for the best texture contrast.
• Drain on paper towels and chop or break into pieces for even distribution.
Stack Ingredients Thoughtfully
• Layer cheese on both sides of the sandwich—this helps melt everything together and keeps it from falling apart.
• Place the turkey in the center with bacon layered in for crunch in every bite.
Melt Like a Pro
• Use room temperature butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread for that perfect golden crust.
• Grill over medium-low heat in a nonstick or cast iron skillet to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread.
Turkey Tip
• Use leftover roasted turkey or quality deli turkey breast.
• Warm it slightly before assembling if it's cold from the fridge—it helps the melt come together faster.
Make It Your Own
• Add tomato slices, caramelized onions, or a swipe of honey mustard for added flavor.
• A pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or cracked black pepper on the cheese before grilling levels up the seasoning.
Meal Prep & Storage
• Assemble sandwiches ahead (without grilling) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• Cooked melts store well in the fridge for 2–3 days—reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to restore crispness.
Tasty Variations to Try
Spicy Kick – Use pepper jack cheese and add sliced jalapeños or spicy mayo.
BBQ Twist – Swap out cheddar for smoked gouda and add a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
Avocado Upgrade – Add sliced avocado or guacamole for creamy contrast.
Low-Carb Version – Use keto-friendly bread or wrap ingredients in a large lettuce leaf for a melt-inspired roll-up.