Apple Turkey Sandwich
A quick and flavorful Apple Turkey Sandwich with melted cheddar, crisp apples, and honey-drizzled turkey, perfect for a high-protein, fiber-rich lunch or dinner. Ready in just 20 minutes, stovetop-toasted, and absolutely satisfying.
Equipment
- 1 large cutting board
- 1 frying pan
- 1 spatula
- 1 knife
- 1 lid for frying pan
Ingredients
- 2 large slices sourdough bread
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1½ tbsp Dijon mustard
- 4 slices white cheddar cheese
- ½ Gala apple thinly sliced
- 4 slices deli turkey or leftover roast turkey
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Base: Place two large slices of sourdough bread on a clean cutting board. Using a butter knife, spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise across the surface of each slice. Then, carefully add Dijon mustard on top of the mayonnaise, ensuring it covers the entire slice. This layer creates a creamy, tangy base that balances the sweet and savory flavors to come.
- Layer the Cheddar Cheese: On one slice of the prepared bread, arrange four slices of white cheddar cheese in a single, even layer. Make sure the cheese covers the bread fully, edge to edge, so it melts evenly when cooked and gives every bite a gooey, flavorful touch.
- Add Crisp Apple Slices: Take half of a Gala apple and thinly slice it using a sharp knife or mandoline. Carefully layer the apple slices on top of the cheddar. The thin slices allow the natural sweetness and slight crunch of the apple to blend perfectly with the melted cheese, enhancing texture and taste.
- Add Turkey and Drizzle Honey: Place four slices of deli turkey (or leftover roast turkey) over the apple layer, ensuring even coverage. Next, lightly drizzle one tablespoon of honey over the turkey. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory turkey and sharp cheddar.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top of the layered ingredients, mustard side down, to complete the sandwich. Spread one tablespoon of softened butter on the top slice of bread. This step ensures the bread crisps beautifully when cooking and adds a rich, golden-brown flavor.
- Preheat the Pan: Place a frying pan over medium heat and allow it to warm for 1-2 minutes. Preheating ensures even toasting and proper melting of the cheese.
- Cook the First Side: Gently place the sandwich in the preheated pan, buttered side down. Spread the remaining tablespoon of softened butter on the top slice of bread while the first side cooks. Cover the pan with a lid to trap heat, helping the cheese soften and the sandwich warm through evenly. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bottom slice turns golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and Toast the Other Side: Carefully flip the sandwich using a spatula, ensuring it stays intact. Cook the second side for another 3-4 minutes, keeping the lid on. Check that the cheese has fully melted, and the bread is evenly toasted. Adjust the heat slightly if needed to avoid burning while achieving a perfect golden-brown crust.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to rest for 1-2 minutes; this helps the cheese set slightly, preventing it from spilling out when cut. Using a sharp knife, slice the sandwich in half diagonally or down the center for easy handling.
- Enjoy Immediately: Serve your Apple Turkey Sandwich hot for the best experience, enjoying the perfect balance of gooey cheddar, sweet apple, tender turkey, and crispy bread. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days and reheat gently in a pan or toaster oven to retain crispiness.
Notes
- Bread Choice Matters: Sourdough works best for its sturdy texture and tangy flavor, but whole-grain or multigrain bread can also be used for added fiber and nutrients.
- Apple Selection: Gala apples are sweet and crisp, but Fuji or Honeycrisp apples also provide excellent texture and natural sweetness.
- Turkey Options: Leftover roast turkey or deli-sliced turkey can be used interchangeably. For added flavor, consider smoked or herb-roasted turkey.
- Cheese Flexibility: White cheddar melts beautifully, but Gruyère or Havarti can be substituted for a richer, creamier taste.
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle enhances sweetness and balances the tangy mustard; avoid overusing honey to prevent soggy bread.
- Butter Tips: Softened butter spreads evenly and ensures a golden, crispy exterior when pan-toasting.
