Introduction

The cranberry turkey grilled cheese is a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Combining savory turkey, tangy cranberries, and melty cheese, it’s a perfect sandwich for a quick lunch or light dinner. This easy recipe will have you savoring every bite.

A stack of three toasted sandwich slices is shown, each slice golden brown with a slight crisp texture. Between the layers, melted white cheese oozes out richly, mixed with bright red cranberry sauce that drips down the sides, creating a glossy, sticky look. The sandwich sits on white parchment paper placed on a white plate with rounded edges, all set on a white marbled surface. Around the plate, a few fresh cranberries and a mustard yellow cloth with tassels add a cozy touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

Sliced bread
Turkey (fresh or deli)
Cranberries, prepared according to bagged directions
Sliced cheese (provolone recommended)
Mayonnaise
Butter

Instructions

Step 1: Spread mayonnaise on one side of each slice of bread.
Step 2: On the mayo side of one slice, layer the cheese first, then the turkey, and finally spread prepared cranberries on top.
Step 3: Top with the second slice of bread, mayo side down.
Step 4: Heat a pan over low to medium heat and melt butter evenly.
Step 5: Grill the sandwich in the buttered pan for 2-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and spilling out.
Step 6: Remove from heat and enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

Use cranberry sauce with a bit of orange zest for extra brightness and flavor.
Swap provolone for Swiss or cheddar cheese for different tastes.
Add a layer of spinach or arugula for a fresh, peppery bite.
Try using whole grain or sourdough bread to add texture and flavor complexity.

Storage

Store any leftover grilled cheese wrapped in foil or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to preserve crispness, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread from getting soggy.

How to Serve

A grilled sandwich stacked with three layers of toasted bread that are golden brown and crispy on the outside, with melted creamy cheese oozing out between each layer. Between the bread slices are generous spreads of vibrant red cranberry sauce, adding a juicy, slightly chunky texture that contrasts with the smooth melted cheese. The sandwich is placed on a piece of wax paper on a white plate with soft light highlighting the warm colors. Whole cranberries are scattered nearby, enhancing the festive look. The background is a white marbled texture with a hint of rough fabric and a fringed yellow cloth on the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use leftover cooked turkey for this sandwich?

Yes, leftover cooked turkey works perfectly and saves you prep time. Just slice it thinly for even layering.

What if I don’t have prepared cranberries?

You can use fresh or frozen cranberries cooked down with a bit of sugar and water until soft, or substitute with cranberry sauce from a jar.

Cranberry Turkey Grilled Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 56 reviews

A delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, this Cranberry Turkey Grilled Cheese combines savory turkey, creamy provolone cheese, and tart cranberries, all toasted to golden perfection on buttery bread. Perfect for a comforting lunch or a quick dinner, this sandwich offers a burst of flavors and a satisfying texture with every bite.

Author: Daniel
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Yield: 1 sandwich
Category: Sandwich
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Bread & Spread

Sliced Bread – 2 slices
Mayonnaise – 1 tablespoon
Butter – 1 tablespoon (for grilling)

Filling

Turkey (fresh or deli) – 3-4 slices
Cranberries (prepared according to bagged directions) – 2 tablespoons
Sliced Cheese (Provolone preferred) – 2 slices

Instructions

Prepare Bread: Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise evenly on one side of each slice of bread. This will help add flavor and create a crisp texture when grilled.
Assemble Sandwich: On the mayo-spread side of one slice, layer the provolone cheese first, then add the turkey slices, and finally spread the prepared cranberries on top of the turkey. Place the second slice of bread on top, mayo side down.
Preheat Pan and Butter: Heat a skillet or frying pan over low to medium heat. Add butter to the pan and allow it to melt, coating the surface evenly to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
Grill Sandwich: Place the sandwich in the buttered pan. Cook for 2-4 minutes on one side until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese starts to melt and ooze slightly. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for an additional 2-4 minutes until golden and the cheese is fully melted.
Serve Warm: Remove the sandwich from the pan, cut if desired, and serve immediately for the best melty, warm experience.

Notes

Use freshly prepared cranberries or thawed preserved cranberries to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Adjust grilling time based on your stove’s heat and the thickness of your bread to avoid burning.
You can substitute provolone with other mild cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss for different flavors.
For a healthier option, use whole grain bread and low-fat mayonnaise.

Keywords: Cranberry turkey grilled cheese, turkey sandwich, grilled cheese with cranberries, easy sandwich recipe, autumn sandwich