The Perfect Cheese For A Tasty Turkey Sandwich

Turkey sandwiches are a versatile meal, perfect for using up leftover meat from Thanksgiving or Christmas. But what type of cheese should you use? There are several options, depending on your personal preference and the flavour of your turkey. If your turkey is packed with flavour or smoky, a mild young cheese is the best pairing. Edam, Monterey Jack, and Havarti are great choices, but to truly elevate your sandwich, Provolone Dolce is recommended. On the other hand, if your turkey is more subtle, you can opt for a slightly more complex cheese, such as Pecorino Romano, Provolone Piccante, Pepper Jack, or Asiago.

Swiss, provolone, and cheddar

Swiss cheese is a good option for those who like a tangy taste. It pairs well with turkey, especially in a grilled cheese sandwich. Swiss cheese can be used melted or unmelted, depending on preference. The tanginess of the cheese can be enhanced by adding ingredients such as red onion, thyme, and mustard to the sandwich.

Provolone is another cheese that works well with turkey. It has a milder flavour and can be used to create a simple yet tasty sandwich. Provolone melts well, making it a good choice for a hot sandwich. It can be paired with ingredients like pesto, mayonnaise, tomato, and red onion.

Cheddar cheese is a versatile option that can be used in many different types of sandwiches. It has a strong, sharp flavour that can add a nice kick to a turkey sandwich. Cheddar melts well, making it a good choice for a toasted sandwich, and can be paired with ingredients like butter, dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

All three cheeses have their unique qualities and can be used to create delicious turkey sandwiches. The choice of cheese ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired flavour profile of the sandwich.

Monterey Jack, Havarti, and Edam

When it comes to the best cheese for a turkey sandwich, there are several options that complement the flavour of the meat. Three stand-out cheeses are Monterey Jack, Havarti, and Edam. Each has its own unique characteristics and can be used in different ways to elevate a simple turkey sandwich.

Monterey Jack is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, including those featuring turkey. It has a mild, creamy flavour that melts beautifully, making it ideal for grilled sandwiches. A classic combination is freshly shredded Monterey Jack with sliced jalapenos, avocado, bacon, and deli turkey. The buttery texture and subtle taste of Monterey Jack complement the other ingredients without overwhelming them.

Havarti is another excellent option for turkey sandwiches, especially when paired with sourdough bread. It has a mellow, slightly sweet flavour and a creamy texture that melts well. For a simple yet delicious sandwich, try grilled Havarti with sliced tomatoes and turkey on sourdough. The cheese acts as a barrier between the tomatoes and the bread, preventing the bread from becoming soggy. You can also add garlic basil pesto to this sandwich for extra flavour.

While less commonly mentioned, Edam cheese can also be a delightful choice for a turkey sandwich. It has a mild, slightly nutty flavour and a firm, yet creamy texture. Edam is often used in sandwiches due to its ability to add flavour without being overpowering. It pairs well with other ingredients such as lettuce, tomato, and a light spread, creating a refreshing and tasty turkey sandwich.

Each of these cheeses brings something unique to a turkey sandwich. Whether it's the melt-in-your-mouth quality of Monterey Jack in a grilled sandwich, the subtle sweetness of Havarti, or the refreshing nuttiness of Edam, these cheeses will elevate your sandwich experience.

Asiago, Pecorino Romano, and Pepper Jack

Asiago

A creamy and delicious option for a turkey sandwich is an Artichoke-Asiago Turkey Sandwich. This sandwich is made with sourdough bread, mayonnaise, asiago cheese, black pepper, and marinated artichoke hearts. The artichoke hearts are packed in olive oil, which adds a nice touch of flavour to the sandwich. The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy and savoury sandwich that is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.

Pecorino Romano

For a heartier option, try a Kentucky Hot Brown Grilled Cheese Sandwich. This sandwich is a twist on the classic open-faced Kentucky Hot Brown sandwich, which is typically made with turkey, bacon, and tomatoes. The grilled cheese version uses pecorino romano cheese to create a deliciously cheesy crust on the bread. The filling is made with Greek yogurt, sharp white cheddar cheese, nutmeg, cooked turkey breast, bacon, and tomatoes. The pecorino romano cheese not only adds flavour to the crust but is also mixed into the filling, creating a creamy and cheesy texture. This sandwich is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and is perfect for a comforting meal.

Pepper Jack

For those who enjoy a little spice, a Turkey Pepper Jack Panini is an excellent choice. This sandwich is quick and easy to make and is perfect for using up leftover turkey. It features pepper jack cheese, which adds a nice kick of spice, and is paired with a spicy mayo spread made with light mayo, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce. The sandwich is grilled to perfection, with a crunchy exterior and a warm and gooey interior. It can be served with a side salad, fresh fruit, or kettle chips, making it a well-rounded and tasty option for lunch or dinner.

Mild blue cheeses like Gorgonzola Dolce or Cambozola

If you're feeling adventurous, a mild blue cheese like Gorgonzola Dolce or Cambozola can add a little spice to your turkey sandwich. These cheeses are great for those who are new to blue cheese and want to try something a little different. While they're not as strong as a Stilton or Roquefort, they will add a subtle kick to your sandwich.

When making a turkey and cheese sandwich, it's important to consider the flavour of your turkey and the other ingredients you're using. If your turkey is packed with flavour or smoked, a mild, young cheese is the best pairing. This will ensure you don't overload your taste buds. However, if your turkey is more subtle, you can opt for a slightly more complex cheese to add some interest to your sandwich.

When it comes to bread, a soft white or wholemeal loaf is a good choice for a turkey sandwich. A thick, dense bread will hold all your ingredients together, especially if you're planning to grill or toast your sandwich. As for condiments, butter or mayonnaise are popular choices, with the latter adding moisture and enhancing the other flavours in your sandwich. Cranberry sauce is also a great addition, providing sweetness and moisture, especially if you're using leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or Christmas.

There are many different types of cheese that pair well with turkey, including Swiss, provolone, and cheddar. Provolone is a particularly good choice for a turkey sandwich, as it is a mild, young cheese that won't overpower the other flavours. If you're looking for something a little more complex, Asiago is a great option. It's a mountain-style cheese from Veneto in Italy, with a flavour that ranges from sweet and buttery to tangy with a salty aftertaste.

Gruyère, Raclette, and Fontina

When it comes to crafting the perfect turkey sandwich, the choice of cheese is critical. While there are many varieties to choose from, three stand out for their exceptional flavour and texture: Gruyère, Raclette, and Fontina. Each of these cheeses brings its unique characteristics to the sandwich, elevating the humble turkey sandwich into a gourmet delight.

Gruyère cheese, with its strong nutty flavour and firm texture, is a popular choice for those seeking a more robust taste experience. Its nutty notes complement the turkey, creating a harmonious blend of flavours. Gruyère also melts beautifully, adding a creamy texture to the sandwich. It is a versatile cheese that can be paired with a variety of sandwich fillings, making it a favourite among those who enjoy experimenting with different combinations.

Raclette cheese, a traditional Swiss cheese, offers a unique taste and aroma that ranges from mild to sharp. Its distinct "funky" character is a result of being crafted from aged cow's milk. Raclette is known for its exceptional meltability, resulting in a gooey, decadent sandwich. When paired with turkey, Raclette adds a creamy texture and a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavour profile of the sandwich. It is a perfect choice for those who enjoy a more indulgent bite.

Fontina cheese, with its nutty flavour and creamy, smooth texture, is another excellent option for turkey sandwiches. A little goes a long way with this potent cheese, as its pungency stands up to the strong flavour of roast turkey. Fontina's exceptional meltability makes it ideal for grilled sandwiches, creating a cohesive blend of flavours and textures. When paired with caramelised onions, sautéed spinach, and whole-grain bread, Fontina adds a touch of sophistication to the classic turkey sandwich.

Each of these cheeses brings something unique to the table. Gruyère, with its nutty flavour and firm texture, adds a bold touch to the sandwich. Raclette, known for its meltability and distinct flavour, creates a decadent, indulgent experience. Fontina, with its pungency and creaminess, stands up to the robust flavour of turkey. By choosing any one of these cheeses, or even combining them, you're sure to elevate your turkey sandwich into something truly special.

Frequently asked questions