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The Ultimate Open-Faced Turkey Cranberry Melt

open faced turkey cranberry melt - featured image
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A quick and easy open-faced sandwich featuring leftover turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and melted Gruyère cheese on crispy sourdough bread. Perfect for using holiday leftovers or a comforting weeknight meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 thick slices sourdough bread (or ciabatta)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or sliced
  • 1/2 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or sharp white cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh thyme or rosemary leaves (optional garnish)
  • A drizzle of balsamic glaze (optional garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your broiler to high. Position the oven rack about 6 inches from the heating element. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Place the sourdough slices on the prepared baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on each slice. Broil for 1-2 minutes, just until the edges turn golden. Remove from the oven and flip the slices over.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the shredded turkey with mayonnaise (if using), a pinch of salt, and a few grinds of black pepper.
  4. Spread a generous spoonful of cranberry sauce on each bread slice (about 2 tablespoons per slice). Top with the seasoned turkey, dividing it evenly among the slices.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or cheddar over the turkey, covering it completely.
  6. Place the baking sheet back under the broiler. Cook for 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on it, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let the melts cool for 1-2 minutes on the baking sheet. Sprinkle fresh thyme or rosemary leaves on top, and drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
  8. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t skip the pre-toast of the bread to prevent sogginess. Watch the broiler closely to avoid burning. Grate your own cheese for best melting. Let turkey come to room temperature before assembling for even heating.

Nutrition

Keywords: open-faced sandwich, turkey cranberry melt, leftover turkey, easy sandwich, holiday leftovers, comfort food

Find it online: https://bitesienna.com/the-ultimate-open-faced-turkey-cranberry-melt-easy-recipe/