The Art of Ultimate Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt Perfection

Perfect Bacon Cooking Mastery

Master the technique of cooking bacon to ideal crispiness while maintaining perfect texture.

Cheese Melting Excellence

Learn the skill of achieving perfectly melted cheese without burning the bread.

Grilling Technique Perfection

Perfect the method of achieving golden, crispy exterior while heating filling thoroughly.

Turkey Layering Strategy

Master the art of layering turkey for optimal flavor distribution and structural integrity.

Assembly and Timing

Learn optimal assembly and cooking timing for maximum flavor and texture results.

Gourmet Turkey Melt Mastery Secrets for Perfect Cheese and Bacon Combination

Turkey Quality: Use freshly sliced deli turkey for best flavor and texture results.

Cheese Melting: Keep heat at medium to prevent burning bread while melting cheese thoroughly.

Bread Choice: Sturdy sourdough holds up well to grilling and substantial filling ingredients.

Bacon Crispness: Cook bacon until crispy but not burnt for optimal texture contrast.

Assembly Order: Layer ingredients strategically to prevent soggy bread and ensure even melting.

Grilling Technique: Use reserved bacon fat for extra flavor when grilling the sandwiches.

Ultimate Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Artisan Sourdough Bread

Name: Ultimate Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Artisan Sourdough Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Protein Foundation:; 1 lb sliced deli turkey breast; 8 slices thick-cut bacon; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; For the Cheese Excellence:; 8 slices aged sharp cheddar cheese; 4 slices Swiss cheese (optional); For the Bread Foundation:; 8 slices artisan sourdough bread; 4 tablespoons butter, softened; For the Flavor Enhancers:; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; For the Fresh Components:; 4 large tomato slices; 8 butter lettuce leaves; 1 red onion, thinly sliced; 1 avocado, sliced (optional); For the Seasoning:; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; Freshly cracked black pepper; Sea salt to taste; For the Gourmet Touches:; 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; For the Perfect Assembly:; Toothpicks for securing; Parchment paper for serving

The ultimate turkey melt featuring tender sliced turkey, crispy bacon, sharp aged cheddar, and fresh ingredients grilled to perfection on artisan sourdough bread. This gourmet comfort food masterpiece combines the savory richness of premium turkey and bacon with the sharp complexity of aged cheddar cheese, creating an unforgettable sandwich experience that elevates the classic deli melt to extraordinary heights perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you crave the perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors.

Prep Time

10 Minutes

Cook Time

12 Minutes

Total Time

22 Minutes

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

For the Protein Foundation:

1 lb sliced deli turkey breast

8 slices thick-cut bacon

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese Excellence:

8 slices aged sharp cheddar cheese

4 slices Swiss cheese (optional)

For the Bread Foundation:

8 slices artisan sourdough bread

4 tablespoons butter, softened

For the Flavor Enhancers:

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

1 tablespoon whole grain mustard

1 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Fresh Components:

4 large tomato slices

8 butter lettuce leaves

1 red onion, thinly sliced

1 avocado, sliced (optional)

For the Seasoning:

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Freshly cracked black pepper

Sea salt to taste

For the Gourmet Touches:

2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Perfect Assembly:

Toothpicks for securing

Parchment paper for serving

For Special Equipment:

Large skillet or griddle

Spatula

Tongs

Instructions

Cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crispy.

Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain excess fat.

Reserve 1 tablespoon bacon fat for cooking sandwiches.

Mix Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and whole grain mustard for spread.

Butter one side of each bread slice with softened butter.

Spread mustard-mayo mixture on the unbuttered side of each slice.

Layer bottom slice with butter lettuce leaves for fresh base.

Add generous portion of sliced turkey breast over lettuce.

Place 2 slices of crispy bacon on top of turkey layer.

Add 2 slices of aged cheddar cheese over bacon.

Layer tomato slices and red onion, season with salt and pepper.

Add Swiss cheese if using, and avocado if desired.

Sprinkle with oregano, chives, and additional black pepper.

Crown with top bread slice, spread-side down, pressing gently.

Heat skillet or griddle over medium heat with reserved bacon fat.

Place sandwiches in skillet and cook 3-4 minutes until golden.

Carefully flip sandwiches and cook another 3-4 minutes.

Press gently with spatula to ensure cheese melts completely.

Remove from heat when bread is golden and cheese is melted.

Let cool for 1-2 minutes before cutting diagonally.

Secure with toothpicks and cut in half to serve.

Serve immediately while cheese is still melted and warm.

Accompany with chips, pickles, or soup for complete meal.

Ultimate Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Artisan Sourdough Bread

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

The Art of Ultimate Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt Perfection

Ultimate Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Artisan Sourdough Bread

Ingredients

Instructions