You know those meals that hit all the right notes—crispy, melty, salty, and satisfying? This Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt is exactly that. I’ve made this sandwich more times than I can count, and each time, it delivers the kind of bold, feel-good flavor that makes it a favorite in our home. This melt brings together smoky bacon, juicy turkey, sharp cheddar, and a golden, buttery crust that’ll take your sandwich game to the next level.
The first time I made this, it was a post-holiday lunch using leftover Thanksgiving turkey. I toasted it up with some crispy bacon and cheddar, and before I knew it, everyone wanted a second round. That moment turned this into a year-round classic for me. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for when you need something hearty but easy.
It’s the kind of sandwich you crave on a chilly afternoon, after a long morning, or when you need something familiar but crave-worthy. My favorite thing about it is that it feels indulgent without being complicated. Whether I’m whipping it up after a busy workday or sharing it with family during Sunday lunch, it always hits home.
Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a hungry crew, or just craving a comfort food lunch, this cheddar and bacon turkey melt is ready to deliver. Pair it with a bowl of soup, a side salad, or even kettle chips, and you’ve got a lunch worth sitting down for. Let’s get into it.
Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt – Crisp, Cheesy, and Packed with Comfort
Ingredients
- ½ lb deli or leftover turkey sliced
- 4 strips bacon cooked until crisp
- 4 slices sourdough or sandwich bread
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional
- 2 tbsp butter softened
- Optional add-ons: sliced tomato red onion, arugula
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the BreadSpread butter on one side of each slice of bread. On the opposite side, spread a thin layer of mayo and mustard.
- Step 2: Layer It UpOn the mayo side, layer a slice of cheddar, turkey, bacon, and any extras you like. Top with another slice of cheddar, then the second slice of bread, butter side out.
- Step 3: Toast to Golden PerfectionHeat a skillet over medium. Grill each sandwich 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 4: Slice & ServeCut diagonally and serve warm with chips, soup, or salad.
Notes
Derek’s Secret Tips for the Ultimate Turkey Melt
- Toast the bread slightly before assembling to avoid sogginess—especially if you’re adding extras like tomato or mustard.
- Shred the cheddar instead of using slices for quicker melt and even coverage.
- Mix the mayo and mustard together into a quick sandwich spread—it gives each bite a creamy, tangy kick.
- Use a cast iron skillet for the crispiest crust—and don’t be afraid to press down hard for that diner-style finish.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder to the butter before grilling for next-level flavor.
- Let the sandwich rest for 2 minutes before cutting to keep the filling from spilling out too soon.
What’s On the Board?
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Course: Lunch, Dinner
- Cuisine: American Diner Style
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Sandwich)
- Calories: ~540
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Budget Breakdown
- Deli turkey breast (½ lb): ~$3.00
- Bacon (4 strips): ~$1.50
- Sharp cheddar (4 slices): ~$2.00
- Sourdough bread (4 slices): ~$1.50
- Mayo, butter, mustard: ~$1.00
Total Cost: ~$9.00
Cost Per Serving: ~$4.50
Why You’ll Love This Turkey Melt
- Ready in under 20 minutes
- Crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
- Perfect for using leftover or deli turkey
- Feels indulgent, but easy to make
- Great for lunch or a laid-back dinner
- Customizable with add-ons like tomato, onion, and greens
- Pairs well with soup, fries, or a fresh salad
Ingredients You’ll Need
- ½ lb deli or leftover turkey, sliced
- 4 strips bacon, cooked until crisp
- 4 slices sourdough or sandwich bread
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- Optional add-ons: sliced tomato, red onion, arugula
Curious about how turkey fits into a healthy diet? Check out this article from the Healthline.
How to Make the Best Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread. On the opposite side, spread a thin layer of mayo and mustard.
Step 2: Layer It Up
On the mayo side, layer a slice of cheddar, turkey, bacon, and any extras you like. Top with another slice of cheddar, then the second slice of bread, butter side out.
Step 3: Toast to Golden Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium. Grill each sandwich 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 4: Slice & Serve
Cut diagonally and serve warm with chips, soup, or salad.
Derek’s Pro Tips
- Use sourdough or rustic bread for a sturdier, crispy crust.
- Add thin tomato slices for juiciness or arugula for a peppery crunch.
- Press down with a spatula as you grill for that classic diner feel.
- Don’t overload the sandwich—too much filling makes flipping tricky.
- Want it gooier? Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
Easy Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or spicy mayo
- Veggie Melt: Swap turkey for grilled mushrooms and zucchini
- Avocado Bacon Melt: Add fresh avocado slices before grilling
- Thanksgiving Remix: Add cranberry sauce for a sweet-savory twist
- Gluten-Free: Use your favorite GF sandwich bread and double-check condiments
Make It a Full Plate
Pair this cheddar and bacon turkey melt with:
- Sweet potato fries
- Creamy tomato basil soup
- Dill pickle spears
- Sparkling lemonade or iced tea
- Balsamic-glazed brussels sprouts
- Coleslaw with apple cider vinegar dressing
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Wrap leftovers in foil or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to restore crispness.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble sandwiches (without grilling) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Grill just before serving.
- Freeze: Not ideal—bread and bacon lose texture when thawed. Better to prep ingredients separately and assemble fresh.
- Lunchbox Friendly: Wrap tightly in foil and pack with a cold pack for a satisfying midday meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best bread for a turkey melt?
Sourdough or any rustic-style bread works best because it crisps up nicely without getting soggy.
Can I use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted turkey is perfect and adds even more flavor.
What cheese goes best with a turkey melt?
Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but you can also use provolone, Swiss, or a mix.
How do I keep the bread from burning before the cheese melts?
Use medium heat and cover the skillet for a minute to help the cheese melt evenly.
Is this sandwich freezer-friendly?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead. Avoid freezing the full sandwich.
Can I make it healthier?
Yes—use whole wheat bread, lean turkey breast, and light cheese. Skip the bacon or use turkey bacon.
What’s a good side dish for turkey melts?
Tomato soup, potato salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables all work great.
What condiments go well with turkey cheddar melts?
Try Dijon mustard, garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or cranberry spread for a flavor twist.
What’s the difference between a turkey melt and a turkey sandwich?
A turkey melt is grilled with melted cheese, while a turkey sandwich is typically served cold or untoasted.
Want to learn about better sandwich nutrition choices? Explore this resource from Cleveland Clinic.
Final Thoughts
This cheddar and bacon turkey melt is my kind of go-to comfort meal. It’s fast, flavorful, and delivers that satisfying combo of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and juicy turkey all wrapped between buttery toasted bread. It tastes like diner food but made right in your own kitchen.
The best part? It doesn’t require a lot of ingredients or skill—just some layering, toasting, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re making it for lunch, an easy weeknight dinner, or turning leftovers into something epic, this melt belongs in your rotation.
Try serving it with a cozy side and turning your lunch break into something you look forward to. And when you find your own twist—maybe a special sauce, or a bread swap that knocks it out of the park—don’t be shy about making it yours.
Craving more? You’ll love my Steak & Cheese Dirty Fry Burritos or the Grilled Cuban Sandwiches if bold, cheesy, savory meals are your thing.
📌 Pin & Share the Love
Love this Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt? Pin it to your comfort food board and tag @comfortfooddaily when you make it!
📌 Pin This Recipe: Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt
A golden, buttery sandwich stuffed with crisp bacon, melted cheddar, and juicy turkey—it’s comfort food in every bite.
