Turkey Cranberry Grilled Cheese (Print Version)

Gooey golden sandwich with leftover turkey, tart cranberry sauce, and melted cheese on buttery sourdough.

# Components:

→ Bread & Spreads

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country bread
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Filling

03 - 4 ounces cooked turkey breast, sliced
04 - 4 tablespoons cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
05 - 4 slices Swiss or provolone cheese

→ Optional Additions

06 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
07 - 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
08 - Handful of baby spinach or arugula

# Directions:

01 - Lay out all bread slices. Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice.
02 - Flip two slices so the unbuttered side faces up. Layer each with 1 cheese slice, half the turkey, 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce, and any optional additions such as mayonnaise, onion, or greens. Top with another cheese slice.
03 - Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side facing outward to ensure golden grilling.
04 - Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until evenly warmed.
05 - Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
06 - Remove from skillet, let rest for 1 minute to set, then slice diagonally in half and serve warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The tart cranberry cuts through rich melted cheese like a flavor party in your mouth
  • Transforms boring leftovers into something you would actually crave on a random Tuesday
02 -
  • Medium low heat is better than high heat, allowing cheese to melt completely before bread burns
  • Spatula pressure during cooking helps everything meld together into one cohesive sandwich
03 -
  • Leftover stuffing inside the sandwich makes it even more festive and hearty
  • Use a panini press if you want those classic grill marks without watching the stove
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