Andy Montoya
Turkey and cheese is a classic sandwich combination, but which cheese should you choose? There are many options, and it can be tricky to know which will work best with your other ingredients. A good rule of thumb is that if your turkey is packed with flavour or smoky, a mild, young cheese is best. Conversely, if your turkey is milder, you can opt for a slightly more complex cheese.
Characteristics of cheese that goes on turkey:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Swiss, Provolone, Cheddar, Havarti, Smoked Gouda, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, Cream Cheese, Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, American, Baby Swiss, Sharp Cheddar, Brie, Goat Cheese, Colby Jack, Munster, Cojack, Edam, Asiago, Pecorino Romano, Provolone Piccante, Pepper Jack, Blue Cheese, Gruyère, Raclette, Fontina, Beaufort, Gorgonzola Dolce, Cambozola |
| Temperature | Melted or unmelted |
What You'll Learn
Provolone, American, and cheddar cheese
Provolone is a natural pairing with turkey, as seen in Applegate's Natural Turkey Sandwich recipe, which includes natural turkey and natural cheese. Provolone also pairs well with toppings like mushrooms and onions.
American cheese is a versatile choice for a turkey sandwich, as it melts easily and has a creamy texture. It is a good option for grilled cheese and turkey sandwiches, providing a comforting appeal.
Cheddar cheese, with its more distinct flavour, is another option to consider when making a turkey sandwich. The sharpness of cheddar can add a nice contrast to the turkey, especially when paired with ingredients like avocado or cranberry sauce.
When using these cheeses in a sandwich, it is recommended to season the turkey with salt and pepper and add toppings like lettuce, tomato, and bacon. Multi-grain or whole wheat bread is also suggested as the best choice for a turkey and cheese sandwich.
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Swiss cheese
For a simple sandwich, Swiss cheese can be combined with sliced turkey, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on toasted whole grain or sourdough bread. This classic combination delivers a well-rounded flavour profile and a satisfying textural contrast.
If you're feeling adventurous, you can elevate your Swiss cheese and turkey sandwich with additional ingredients. One option is to create a tangy sandwich spread by mixing mayonnaise, mustard, and dried thyme. Spread this mixture on country-style French bread, layer with sliced roast turkey, tomato, and Swiss cheese, and cook in a skillet until the bread is golden brown. This sandwich variation adds a unique tangy twist to your classic turkey and Swiss cheese combination.
Another way to enhance your Swiss cheese and turkey sandwich is to include additional toppings such as bacon, avocado, or cranberry sauce. These add-ons introduce different flavours and textures, making your sandwich even more indulgent and delicious.
Whether you stick to the basics or get creative with add-ons, Swiss cheese is a versatile and tasty option to pair with turkey. Its mild and nutty flavour complements the taste of turkey without overwhelming it, making it a popular choice for sandwich enthusiasts.
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Monterey Jack
When making a turkey and Monterey Jack sandwich, you can grill it in a skillet or frying pan, or put it in the oven or a panini press. You could also add other ingredients, such as cranberry sauce, bacon, avocado, tomato, or lettuce. If you want to add some spice, try jalapeños or other peppers.
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Colby Jack
In terms of nutrition, Colby Jack is an excellent source of protein, with 11 grams per 2-ounce serving. It also contains saturated fat, carbohydrates, dietary fibre, and calories from fat.
When it comes to storage, Colby Jack, like most semi-soft cheeses, should be stored at 40°F to 45°F and wrapped in parchment or wax paper, followed by plastic wrap. The cheese can be aged for up to 14 days to allow it to fully set and for the flavours to combine.
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Blue cheese
Sandwiches
Meatballs
If you're looking for an appetiser or a creative way to incorporate turkey and blue cheese, consider making meatballs. Combine ground turkey, blue cheese, onion, jalapeno, and seasonings to form flavourful meatballs. Bake them until golden brown, and you'll have a tasty treat that's perfect for parties or a unique twist on a classic dish.
Panini with Cranberry-Apricot Chutney
For a sweet and savoury delight, a turkey panini with blue cheese and cranberry-apricot chutney is a winning combination. The tanginess of the blue cheese pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the chutney, creating a flavour explosion in every bite. This panini is an excellent choice for those who enjoy exploring unique flavour profiles.
Other Cheeses to Pair with Turkey
While blue cheese offers a distinctive flavour, there are also several other cheeses that pair well with turkey. These include Swiss cheese, provolone, cheddar, havarti, smoked gouda, and pepper jack. Each of these cheeses can enhance the flavour of turkey in different ways, depending on your preference.
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Frequently asked questions
If your turkey is packed with flavour or is smoky, a mild young cheese is the best pairing. Some great options are Edam, Monterey Jack, Havarti, and Provolone Dolce.
If your turkey is more subtle, you can opt for a slightly more complex cheese. Try Pecorino Romano, Provolone Piccante, Pepper Jack, or Asiago.
If you're feeling adventurous, a mild blue cheese like Gorgonzola Dolce or Cambozola will add a little spice to your turkey sandwich.
For those who are adventurous foodies, a robust washed-rind cheese can be paired with mild turkey. Some examples are Gruyère, Raclette, Fontina, and Beaufort.
In addition to cheese, you can add cranberry sauce, bacon, butter or mayonnaise, avocado, ripe tomato slices, and fresh lettuce to your turkey sandwich.
