The Ultimate Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough

There’s something magical about the perfect sandwich. As a chef who’s spent over a decade perfecting comfort food classics, I can tell you that few combinations rival the satisfaction of a well-executed turkey melt. Today, I’m sharing my signature Cheddar and Bacon Turkey Melt on Sourdough – a sandwich that’s earned me countless grateful sighs and recipe requests at my family gatherings.

The Art of the Perfect Melt

Before we dive into the recipe, let me share why this particular combination works so beautifully. The tanginess of sourdough bread creates an ideal foundation, while the turkey and bacon provide different layers of savory goodness. The sharp cheddar brings everything together in a gooey embrace that elevates this sandwich from simple lunch fare to a memorable meal.

Essential Ingredients

For 2 sandwiches:

• 4 thick slices of artisanal sourdough bread
• 8 oz thinly sliced roasted turkey breast
• 6 slices crispy bacon
• 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 2 oz white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 ripe tomato, thinly sliced
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 1 cup baby arugula

The Secret to Perfect Assembly

I’ve learned through countless iterations that the order of ingredients matters tremendously. Here’s my tried-and-true layering technique that ensures every bite is perfectly balanced:

1. Bottom slice (buttered outside)
2. Whole grain mustard layer
3. Turkey slices
4. Tomato slices
5. Sharp cheddar
6. Crispy bacon
7. White cheddar
8. Arugula
9. Top slice (buttered outside)

Detailed Instructions

Preparation Phase (15 minutes)

1. Start by cooking your bacon until perfectly crispy

• Use medium-low heat
• Place bacon in a cold pan
• Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally
• Drain on paper towels

1. While bacon cooks, prep other ingredients:

• Grate both kinds of cheese
• Slice tomatoes thinly
• Butter one side of each bread slice
• Mix mayonnaise with a pinch of black pepper

Assembly and Cooking (10 minutes)

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat
2. Spread the non-buttered sides:

• One slice gets mustard
• Other slice gets seasoned mayonnaise

1. Layer your ingredients:

   First Layer: Turkey (folded for texture)
   Second Layer: Tomato slices
   Third Layer: Sharp cheddar
   Fourth Layer: Bacon (broken to fit)
   Fifth Layer: White cheddar
   Final Layer: Fresh arugula

4. Cooking technique:

• Place sandwich buttered-side down
• Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown
• Flip carefully using a wide spatula
• Cook additional 2-3 minutes
• Press gently with spatula to help cheese melt

Pro Tips for the Perfect Melt

I’ve discovered several game-changing techniques over the years:

1. Temperature Control

• All ingredients should be room temperature (except arugula)
• This ensures even melting without burning the bread

1. Cheese Grating

• Always grate your own cheese
• Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting

1. Bread Selection

• Choose fresh sourdough with a tight crumb
• Slice between 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick

Nutritional Information

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this sandwich with:

• Homemade dill pickles
• Crispy sweet potato fries
• Fresh garden salad with vinaigrette
• Tomato basil soup
• Sparkling water with lemon
• Homemade iced tea

Storage and Reheating

While best enjoyed fresh, you can:

• Wrap assembled (uncooked) sandwiches in foil
• Store in fridge for up to 24 hours
• Reheat in a covered skillet on low heat
• Never microwave (makes bread soggy)

Common Questions

Q: Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
A: While you can prep ingredients ahead, I recommend assembling and cooking just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Q: What’s the best type of turkey to use?
A: I prefer freshly roasted turkey breast, sliced medium-thin. If using deli turkey, choose high-quality, minimally processed varieties.

Q: Why do you use two types of cheddar?
A: The sharp cheddar provides bold flavor while the white cheddar adds creaminess. The combination creates perfect depth and texture.

Q: Can I substitute the sourdough bread?
A: While you can use other breads, sourdough’s tanginess and sturdy texture make it ideal for this sandwich. Its structure holds up well to the melted cheese and multiple layers.

Q: How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?
A: Pat tomato slices dry with paper towels before adding them to the sandwich, and layer them between the cheese and meat to create a moisture barrier.

Variations to Try

After making this sandwich hundreds of times, I’ve developed some delicious variations:

1. Mediterranean Style

• Add roasted red peppers
• Switch arugula for fresh basil
• Include a thin layer of pesto

1. Spicy Southwest

• Add pickled jalapeños
• Include chipotle mayo
• Use pepper jack cheese

1. Autumn Harvest

• Add thinly sliced apple
• Include caramelized onions
• Switch mustard for fig jam

Remember, the key to a perfect turkey melt lies not just in the ingredients, but in the love and attention to detail you put into making it. As I always say, a sandwich isn’t just lunch – it’s an opportunity to create something extraordinary from simple ingredients.

I’d love to hear about your experience making this sandwich. Feel free to share your photos and variations in the comments below!

About the Author: With 15 years of experience in professional kitchens and a passion for elevating everyday classics, I’ve made it my mission to help home cooks create restaurant-quality meals in their own kitchens.