This sandwich is one of my go-to comfort meals when I’ve got leftover turkey in the fridge.
It’s got melty cheese, tangy cranberry sauce, and buttery golden bread.
You grill it like a classic grilled cheese, but the combo of sweet, savory, and creamy takes it up a notch.
Quick to make and always hits the spot.
Why I Love This Recipe
This sandwich was born from a post-Thanksgiving fridge raid. I had leftover turkey, a bit of cranberry sauce, and not much else. Threw them between two slices of bread with cheese, grilled it—and that was it. Magic. It’s now one of those simple meals I make all year.
- It’s fast—ready in under 15 minutes.
- Uses up leftovers or easy store-bought ingredients.
- Crispy outside, gooey inside.
- Sweet + savory combo is chef’s kiss.
- Feels fancy but so easy.
Servings & Time
Makes: 2 sandwiches
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
What You’ll Need
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 1 cup cooked turkey breast, sliced
- ½ cup whole berry cranberry sauce
- 4 slices white cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- Optional: fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Pro Tips
- Let your butter soften before spreading—it avoids tearing the bread.
- Use white cheddar for its meltiness and tang, but swap it out if you like.
- Don’t overload the sandwich—less is more so it doesn’t fall apart.
- Low heat = golden crispy bread without burning.
- Press the sandwich down gently with a spatula for an even grill.
Tools Required
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Spatula
- Butter knife
- Cutting board
- Serrated knife (for cutting sandwich)
Substitutions and Variations
- Use leftover chicken instead of turkey
- Try brie, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese
- Sub cranberry sauce with fig jam or apple chutney
- Use whole wheat or multigrain bread for more texture
- Add arugula or baby spinach for some greens
Make Ahead Tips
You can pre-assemble the sandwich and wrap it in foil. Store it in the fridge for up to 1 day. Just grill it fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Recipe Instructions
Step 1: Butter the Bread
Spread 2 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter evenly on one side of each of the 4 slices of sourdough bread.
Step 2: Build the Sandwich
On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer 2 slices of white cheddar cheese each, followed by ½ cup sliced turkey breast each, and ¼ cup cranberry sauce each. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side out.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwich
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and grill for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Transfer the grilled sandwiches to a cutting board. Let rest for 1 minute, then slice diagonally with a serrated knife. Sprinkle with fresh thyme if using and serve warm.
Leftovers and Storage
Wrap any leftover sandwich halves in foil and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat on a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven for best results.
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
The fat in butter crisps up the bread for that crunchy texture. The moisture in the turkey and cranberry sauce keeps the inside juicy. White cheddar melts evenly, binding the sandwich together. The contrast between sweet (cranberry) and savory (turkey and cheese) creates that irresistible balance.
Common Mistakes
- Cooking on too high heat—it burns the bread before the cheese melts.
- Overfilling the sandwich—it’ll fall apart.
- Using cold ingredients—brings down grill time and results.
- Not pressing gently with a spatula—misses that crispy edge.
What to Serve With
- Sweet potato fries
- A bowl of creamy tomato soup
- Crisp apple slices or a light salad
- Pickles or coleslaw for tang
FAQ
Can I use deli turkey?
Yes! Just make sure it’s thick-cut for the best texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use vegan butter and a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Not really. It’s best fresh or refrigerated short-term.
Can I use a panini press?
Totally! It’ll give you a great crispy crust and melt everything evenly.
Can I use different bread?
Yep—ciabatta, whole wheat, or even brioche works great.