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 tried this recipe using holiday turkey leftovers and immediately fell in love with how the flavors come together to create a unique grilled cheese experience.
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 reminds me of cozy family lunches during the holidays when everyone was gathered around the table sharing stories and food.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (bread) milk (cheese butter) tree nuts (possible in pesto); check labels if allergies are a concern.
Nutritional Information
Calories 480 total fat 24 g carbohydrates 37 g protein 28 g per serving.
Save This pesto cranberry turkey grilled cheese is a perfect quick meal that bursts with flavor; try it any time you want something hearty and delicious.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute turkey in this melt?
Yes, chicken or rotisserie chicken are great alternatives and will maintain a similar flavor profile and texture.
- → Which cheeses work well in this sandwich?
Provolone and mozzarella are classic choices, but Swiss, cheddar, or gouda also complement the pesto and cranberry beautifully.
- → What type of bread is best for this melt?
Sourdough is ideal for its texture and flavor, but whole wheat or multigrain bread can be used for added fiber.
- → How do I ensure the bread gets perfectly golden and crispy?
Cooking on medium heat with buttered bread sides facing outward and pressing gently helps achieve a golden, crisp crust while melting the cheese inside.
- → Can I prepare this melt ahead of time?
You can assemble the components in advance, but it’s best to grill just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.