There’s something undeniably comforting about the taste of a grilled cheese sandwich, especially when it combines the unexpected sweetness of cherry jam with savory turkey and spicy cheddar. Just the other day, I was looking for a way to elevate my usual lunch routine. I stumbled upon the perfect fusion of flavors while rummaging through my pantry—this Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich was born out of a craving for something a little different.
Imagine sinking your teeth into hot, toasty bread that melts away to reveal layers of tangy turkey and creamy cheese, all harmonized by the rich, fruity notes of cherry jam. This dish is not only a quick fix—taking just 15 minutes—but it’s also a delightful escape from the monotony of fast food. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing a friend, this sandwich manages to be crowd-pleasing without sacrificing your precious time in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to transform your lunch hour!
Why You'll Love This Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- This recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, taking only 15 minutes from start to finish.
- The unique combination of sweet cherry jam, savory turkey, and spicy cheddar creates a burst of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices for a personalized twist.
- The visual appeal of this golden, melty sandwich makes it as inviting to look at as it is to eat, sure to impress anyone you share it with.
Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich Ingredients
For the Sandwich
• Hearty bread – Use a thick, crusty bread for the best texture.
• Thinly sliced turkey breast – Opt for deli-style turkey to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Spicy cheddar cheese – Feel free to substitute with any cheese you prefer, but the spice adds a nice kick!
• Cherry jam – This key ingredient gives a deliciously sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
• Butter – Generously buttering the bread ensures a perfectly golden crust.
Optional Seasoning
• Black pepper – Sprinkle for an added layer of flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – A pinch will ramp up the heat for those who enjoy spice.
How to Make Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich
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Gather all your delicious ingredients on a clean surface. Make sure everything is ready to go, so you can whip up this sandwich without any interruptions!
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Butter one side of each slice of bread generously. This is crucial for achieving a lovely golden crust that’s just irresistible when grilled!
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Layer your turkey breast and spicy cheddar cheese on the unbuttered side of one slice. Next, spread the cherry jam over the cheese to harmonize all those fantastic flavors!
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Top with the second slice of bread, ensuring the buttered side is facing up. This will help create that perfect crunch while grilling.
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Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill the sandwich until it turns golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, then carefully flip to grill the other side.
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Check if both sides are golden and the cheese is perfectly melted. Once done, serve immediately for the best experience of this savory-sweet delight!
Optional: Sprinkle some black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes on top for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Room Temperature: Store any leftover grilled cheese at room temperature for up to 2 hours. However, for longer-lasting freshness, move it to the fridge.
Fridge: Keep the sandwich wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the delicious flavors while preventing it from becoming soggy.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwich! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed sandwich in a skillet on medium heat, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until heated through and crispy. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich again!
Cherry Jam Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful sandwich and explore flavors that dance on your palate!
- Whole Wheat Bread: Switch to whole wheat for a nutty flavor and added health benefits without sacrificing texture.
- Cream Cheese: Replace spicy cheddar with creamy cheese for a milder taste and a smooth, rich texture.
- Fruit Preserves: Use raspberry or apricot preserves instead of cherry jam for a fruity twist that adds a unique flavor profile.
- Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado to the sandwich for a luscious texture and a boost of healthy fats that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
- Spicy Mayo: Spread a layer of spicy mayonnaise on the bread for a creamy addition that adds an extra kick without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Pickled Jalapeños: For a fiery punch, include pickled jalapeños alongside the turkey and cheese—this will elevate the spicy factor while adding a vinegary tang.
- Herbed Turkey: Use herbed turkey or add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic touch that adds depth to the sandwich.
- Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey over the cherry jam will heighten the sweetness and create a beautifully balanced taste with the spiciness of the cheddar.
Make Ahead Options
These Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble your sandwiches up to 24 hours in advance by layering the turkey, spicy cheddar, and cherry jam between slices of bread and wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap; this keeps the bread from getting soggy. Store the wrapped sandwiches in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill them. When it’s time to serve, simply butter the outer sides and grill until golden brown and melty—just as delicious as if you made them fresh! This makes your busy weeknights a breeze, ensuring you enjoy a flavorful, homemade meal in no time.
What to Serve with Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich?
Pair your delightful grilled cheese with these mouthwatering options to create a full heartwarming meal.
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Crispy Kale Chips: The crunch of kale chips adds a satisfying texture, balancing the sandwich’s gooeyness with delightful chewiness.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: A classic pairing, this warm soup brings a comforting element to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the sandwich beautifully.
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Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy cheddar and cherry jam, creating a mouthwatering contrast that's hard to resist.
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Pickled Vegetable Medley: These tangy bites provide a fresh and zesty contrast, cutting through the richness of the sandwich for a well-rounded experience.
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Fresh Salad: A light, leafy green salad with vinaigrette adds brightness to your plate, making your meal feel balanced and healthy.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink to cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing the vivid flavors of your Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these soft classics round off your meal with a touch of sweetness, reminiscent of childhood afternoons spent enjoying grilled cheese at home.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich, make sure to use a thick, crusty bread to hold all the fillings without falling apart.
- When buttering the bread, be generous as this will create that irresistible golden crust everyone loves.
- If you want an extra kick, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes along with the cherry jam for a delightful contrast.
- Grill the sandwich on medium heat to ensure even cooking, checking both sides frequently to achieve your desired level of crispness.
Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe FAQs
What kind of bread is best for this sandwich?
I recommend using a hearty, crusty bread like sourdough or a robust whole grain for this Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich. These options provide the perfect texture to hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.
How should I store leftover grilled cheese?
Absolutely! After cooking, if you have any leftovers, cool the sandwich down at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Then, wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors while keeping it from getting soggy.
Can I freeze the sandwich?
Yes, you can freeze your Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich! First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy later, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my grilled cheese doesn’t get crispy?
If you find that your sandwich isn't getting crispy, you might need to adjust your cooking temperature. Cook it on medium heat and allow each side 3-4 minutes or until golden brown. If the cheese is melting without crisping the bread, consider using a lid on your skillet for a minute to trap heat and promote even cooking.
Is this sandwich safe for people with allergies?
Great question! This sandwich contains common allergens like gluten (from the bread) and dairy (from the cheese). If you're serving someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free bread and dairy-free cheese options. Always double-check the packaging for any specific allergies when selecting your ingredients!
How do I add more spice to the sandwich?
If you're looking for an extra kick, I suggest sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce directly onto the turkey layer before adding the spicy cheddar. Additionally, you can mix some black pepper into the cherry jam for a delightful contrast that amps up the flavor even more!
Cherry Jam, Turkey & Spicy Cheddar Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Gather all your delicious ingredients on a clean surface. Make sure everything is ready to go.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread generously.
- Layer turkey breast and spicy cheddar cheese on the unbuttered side of one slice. Spread cherry jam over the cheese.
- Top with the second slice of bread, ensuring the buttered side is facing up.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Grill the sandwich until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes, then flip to grill the other side.
- Check if both sides are golden and cheese is melted. Serve immediately.
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