Turkey Club Grilled Cheese

My skillet was smoking a little when I realized I'd forgotten the bacon on the counter. The butter had already started browning on the bread, and I was committed. That first Turkey Club Grilled Cheese came together in a beautiful panic, and somehow the urgency made it taste even better. Now it's my go-to when I want something filling but don't want to fuss with multiple pans or perfect plating.

I made these for my brother once after he'd been working in the garage all afternoon. He sat at the counter, still wiping grease off his hands, and didn't say much until he was halfway through the second half. Then he just nodded and said it was better than the deli version. That quiet approval meant more than any review ever could.

Ingredients

• Cooked turkey breast: Roasted or deli turkey both work, but roasted has a deeper flavor that stands up to the bacon and cheese.
• Cooked bacon: Crispy bacon adds the smoky, salty punch that makes this more than just a grilled cheese.
• Romaine lettuce: It stays crisp even after being pressed, unlike softer greens that wilt and get soggy.
• Tomato: Slice it thin so it doesn't make the bread wet, and pat it dry with a towel if it's especially juicy.
• Cheddar or Swiss cheese: Cheddar melts with a sharpness, Swiss brings a creamier, milder note.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads evenly and crisps the bread without burning.
• Sourdough bread: The tangy crust holds up to all the fillings and gets beautifully golden when grilled.
• Mayonnaise: Optional, but it adds moisture and a subtle richness that ties everything together.
• Dijon mustard: A little sharpness cuts through the richness and wakes up the turkey.

Instructions

Preheat your skillet:

Set a skillet or panini press over medium heat and let it warm up for a minute or two. You want it hot enough to toast the bread but not so hot that it burns before the cheese melts.

Butter the bread:

Spread softened butter on one side of each slice of sourdough. This is the side that will touch the pan and turn golden.

Add the condiments:

On the unbuttered side of two slices, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise and a touch of Dijon mustard if you like a little kick.

Build the layers:

Start with a slice of cheese, then add turkey, bacon, tomato slices, lettuce, and another slice of cheese. Top with the second piece of bread, buttered side facing out.

Grill until golden:

Place the sandwiches in the skillet or press and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula. The bread should be deep golden and the cheese fully melted.

Rest and serve:

Let the sandwiches sit for a minute so the cheese sets slightly, then slice in half and serve while still warm.

Pin it

There was a Sunday when I made a double batch of these and we ate them outside on the porch with iced tea. The sun was warm, the sandwiches were still hot, and nobody was in a hurry. It wasn't fancy, but it felt like exactly what we needed.

Choosing Your Cheese

Cheddar gives you that sharp, familiar flavor that pairs well with bacon, while Swiss melts smoother and adds a mild sweetness. I've also used provolone when that's all I had, and it worked beautifully. The key is picking something that melts well and doesn't overpower the turkey.

Making It Lighter

You can skip the bacon entirely and add avocado slices for creaminess without the smoke. Turkey bacon is another option if you want to keep that crispy texture but cut back on the richness. Either way, the sandwich still holds its own.

Serving Suggestions

This sandwich is filling on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a handful of kettle chips, a dill pickle spear, or a simple side salad with vinaigrette. I've also served it with tomato soup when the weather turns cold, and it feels like the ultimate comfort meal.

• Add a handful of arugula for a peppery bite.
• Try smoked turkey for deeper flavor.
• Serve with sweet potato fries for a hearty lunch.

Pin it

This sandwich has saved more lunches than I can count, and it never gets old. I hope it becomes one of those recipes you reach for when you want something satisfying without overthinking it.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I prepare this sandwich ahead of time?

Assemble the sandwich just before cooking for best results, as the bread will soften from the fillings. You can slice your ingredients in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator.

→ What's the best way to achieve crispy bacon for this sandwich?

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches your desired crispness, typically 5-7 minutes. For extra crispy bacon, use the oven method at 400°F for 15-20 minutes on a lined baking sheet.

→ Can I use different cheese varieties?

Absolutely. Provolone, Swiss, gruyere, or even pepper jack cheese work wonderfully. Choose cheeses that melt well and complement the turkey and bacon flavors.

→ How do I prevent the bread from burning while cooking?

Keep heat at medium to medium-low and monitor closely. If bread browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly. A panini press provides more even cooking than a skillet.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this sandwich?

Pickles, coleslaw, a side salad, tomato soup, or sweet potato fries complement this hearty sandwich beautifully. Lighter options include steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad.

→ Can I make a vegetarian version?

Yes. Omit the turkey and bacon, then add sautéed mushrooms, avocado, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions. The cheese and vegetables still create a satisfying, flavorful sandwich.