Smoked Turkey's Cheesy Companion: Finding The Perfect Pair

Smoked turkey is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, but it is particularly well-suited for sandwiches. When it comes to selecting a cheese to accompany smoked turkey in a sandwich, there are several options to consider. The type of cheese can significantly enhance the flavour of the sandwich and create a more sophisticated taste profile.

Smoked turkey and cheese sandwiches

Choosing the Right Cheese

The type of cheese you select can significantly enhance the flavour of your smoked turkey sandwich. Here are some popular options:

• Mild Cheeses: Gouda, Edam, Colby, Monterey Jack, Havarti, Swiss, American, Muenster, and Cheddar are all excellent choices. They complement the smokiness of the turkey without overwhelming its flavour.
• Aged and Pungent Cheeses: If your turkey is plain, opt for stronger cheeses like Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, Provolone, Asiago, or Blue Cheese. These varieties will add a sharp and noticeable kick to your sandwich.
• Combination: You can also combine mild and pungent cheeses. For instance, pair a few slices of mild Edam or Havarti with Provolone or Asiago.

Bread Selection

The bread you choose can make a big difference in the overall taste and texture of your sandwich. Here are some suggestions:

• Boule: For a crowd, a large round loaf, or boule, is a great option. Italian, sourdough, pumpernickel, or whole-wheat boules can add a unique flavour to your sandwich.
• Thick Crust Bread: If you're packing your sandwich with lots of ingredients, opt for a denser and thicker crust bread like Italian or French bread. They'll hold up well to grilling or toasting.
• White Bread: For a classic sandwich, white bread is always a good choice.
• Whole Wheat Bread: If you're looking for a healthier option, whole wheat bread is a nutritious alternative.

Additional Ingredients

The beauty of a smoked turkey and cheese sandwich is that you can customise it with various additional ingredients. Here are some ideas:

• Vegetables: Lettuce, butter lettuce, arugula, tomato, avocado, onion, and red pepper can add a fresh crunch to your sandwich.
• Condiments: Mayonnaise, mustard, cranberry sauce, and BBQ sauce are classic choices. You can also experiment with pesto, hummus, tzatziki sauce, or garlic mayonnaise.
• Meat: Bacon adds a nice savoury touch, while ham provides a different texture.
• Cheese Combinations: Try combining different cheeses, such as smoked Gouda with Colby Jack or Monterey Jack with Pepper Jack.

Assembly and Cooking Tips

• Hollow out the soft interior of a large round loaf, leaving a thin-walled crust. Spread the cut sides with mustard, and layer with turkey, cheese, and your choice of vegetables. Wrap and refrigerate before serving.
• When grilling your sandwich, use low-medium heat to ensure the cheese melts properly and the bread turns golden brown without burning.
• If you're making a hot sandwich, add ingredients like lettuce and sprouts after cooking to avoid wilting.
• For a campfire or tailgating, prep your sandwiches in advance. Fill the rolls, skip the cheese, and wrap them tightly in foil. Grill over coals until heated through, and add cheese to melt before serving.

Best cheeses for smoked turkey sandwiches

There are many types of cheese that can be paired with smoked turkey to make a delicious sandwich. Here are some options to consider, along with tips on how to create the perfect smoked turkey sandwich:

Mild Cheeses for Smoky Turkey

If your smoked turkey is already full of flavour, you may want to opt for a milder cheese to ensure the turkey remains the star of the show. Some great options for mild cheeses include:

• Gouda: This cheese has a slightly sweeter taste than standard cheddar and works well in a smoked turkey sandwich. It also melts easily, especially if it's a younger gouda. For an even stronger flavour, choose an aged gouda, which has a caramel or butterscotch taste and a firmer texture.
• Colby Jack: This mild, smooth, and melty cheese is a popular choice for smoked turkey sandwiches. It pairs well with the smokiness of the turkey without overwhelming it.
• Monterey Jack: A mild-tasting and buttery cheese that is perfect for turkey melts. It melts easily and is a favourite among kids.
• Swiss Cheese: A classic, mild, and slightly sweet cheese with a hint of nuts. It's super smooth and goes well with smoked turkey, especially in a melt sandwich.
• Muenster: This mild cheese works great in cold and grilled sandwiches, and it melts beautifully.
• Havarti: A pale, soft, and mild cheese that pairs well with smoked turkey. It has a fruity and tangy flavour with a runny texture, similar to Camembert.

Aged Cheeses for Plain Roast Turkey

If your turkey is plain, there's room for a stronger, more pungent cheese. Try one of these options to add a sharper flavour to your sandwich:

• Provolone: This cheese adds a rich and salty taste with a slightly sharp zing to your sandwich. It's a good choice for those who want something stronger without being too overpowering.
• Gruyere: A strong and earthy flavour that pairs well with turkey melts. The longer it's been ripened, the stronger the flavour will be.
• Blue Cheese: Any type of blue cheese will add a strong, pungent flavour to your plain turkey sandwich. However, avoid mixing it with other strong cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.

Tips for the Perfect Smoked Turkey Sandwich:

• Bread: Choose a thicker, denser bread like Italian or French bread that can hold up to the weight of the ingredients and grilling.
• Condiments: Mayonnaise is a classic choice, but you can also try pesto, hummus, cream cheese, tzatziki sauce, or mustard.
• Add-ins: Include some leafy greens like arugula, radicchio, or endive for crunch and flavour. Add ripe tomato slices or cucumber, and don't forget the cranberry sauce!
• Grilling: If you want to grill your sandwich, be sure to use a lower heat setting to ensure the cheese melts and the bread is golden brown without burning.

Smoked turkey sandwich recipes

Smoked turkey sandwiches are a lunchtime classic. Here are some ideas for how to make them, with suggestions for the best types of cheese to use.

Smoked Turkey and Cheddar Sandwich

This is a simple sandwich, but it’s delicious without any extra adornment. The real key to making this sandwich is how you prep the bread: scoop out the soft interior of the loaf after halving it, leaving just a thin-walled crust behind.

Ingredients

• Large round bread loaf or boule (about 8 inches in diameter)
• Thinly sliced smoked cooked turkey
• Sliced cheddar cheese
• Butter lettuce leaves (about 1 small head)
• Mustard

Method

• Cut the bread in half horizontally. Hollow out and remove most of the soft interior of the bread from each half and save for another use, like DIY breadcrumbs.
• Spread the cut sides of the bread with mustard.
• Layer the turkey and cheddar inside the bread bottom. Top with butter lettuce.
• Place the top on the sandwich, tightly wrap the sandwich in 2 layers of plastic wrap, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 1 day.

Smoked Turkey, Brie, and Lettuce Sandwich

This is a good sandwich to take on a picnic. Because the cheese is soft, you can spread it over the turkey on a baguette. Wrapped well, this type of sandwich will not get soggy.

Ingredients

• Smoked turkey
• Brie
• Lettuce
• Tomatoes
• Baguette

Smoked Turkey and Swiss Sandwich

A classic, mild, slightly sweet, super-smooth sandwich that kids will love.

Ingredients

• Smoked turkey
• Swiss cheese
• Bread

Smoked Turkey, Monterey Jack, and Crispy Bacon Club Sandwich

Ingredients

• Smoked turkey
• Bacon
• Monterey Jack cheese
• Bread
• Mayo
• Lettuce
• Tomato

Method

• Toast the bread.
• Spread the insides with mayo.
• Add turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and cheese.

Spicy Smoked Turkey and Jack Sandwich

Ingredients

• 2 slices smoked turkey
• 2 slices jalapeño jack cheddar
• 1 handful sweet arugula
• 2 tsp. Sriracha mayonnaise
• 100% whole wheat & honey sandwich bread

Method

• Spread a layer of Sriracha mayonnaise on both pieces of bread.
• Layer with sweet arugula, smoked turkey, and jalapeño jack cheese.
• Top with the remaining slice of bread and serve.

Smoked Turkey, Havarti, and Crispy Bacon Sandwich

This is a California-inspired club sandwich.

Ingredients

• Smoked turkey
• Melted havarti cheese
• Crispy bacon
• Alfalfa sprouts
• Creamy avocado
• Marinated red onions
• Fresh dill
• Toasted rye bread
• Spicy mayo

Method

• Preheat the oven to 375°F. Prepare a half sheet pan with a piece of parchment paper.
• Add sliced red onions, olive oil, and vinegar to a bowl. Toss well to coat the onions. Let the onions sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, tossing halfway through.
• Lay the bacon onto the sheet pan. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crisp. Transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Remove the parchment and replace with a new piece. Raise the oven temperature to high broil.
• Meanwhile, combine the mayonnaise, hot sauce, smoked paprika, cayenne, and salt in a small bowl. Whisk to combine.
• Place all 8 slices of bread onto the sheet pan. Spread half of the spicy mayo onto the “bottom” 4 slices of bread and top with the slices of cheese.
• Place the pan into the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. Spread the remaining spicy mayo onto the remaining “top” 4 slices of bread.
• Distribute the turkey, bacon, alfalfa sprouts, avocado (sprinkle with flaky sea salt), marinated red onions, and dill onto the bottom slices of bread. Close the sandwiches and cut each in half before serving.

Smoked turkey sandwich toppings

Smoked turkey sandwiches are a great way to use up leftovers and can be a delicious meal. Here are some ideas for toppings to elevate your sandwich:

Cheese

The type of cheese you use can make or break your sandwich. It is important to consider the flavour of your turkey and choose a cheese that complements it. If your turkey is smoky, a mild cheese like Swiss, Monterey Jack, Colby, or Provolone is a good option. These cheeses will enhance the flavour of the turkey without overwhelming it. On the other hand, if your turkey is plain, you can opt for a stronger, more pungent cheese like Gruyere, Blue Cheese, or Asiago. These cheeses will add a kick of flavour to your sandwich.

Vegetables

Vegetables can add a crunchy texture and a boost of nutrition to your sandwich. Some popular options include:

• Lettuce: Butter lettuce or romaine leaves add a crisp texture without overwhelming flavour.
• Tomato: Try to slice them thinly to make your sandwich easier to bite into.
• Onion: Red onion or sweet onion can add a mild kick to your sandwich.
• Peppers: Bell peppers or chilli peppers can bring a range of flavours, from sweet to spicy.
• Sprouts: Alfalfa sprouts or bean sprouts are a healthy and tasty addition.

Condiments and Sauces

Condiments are essential for bringing all the flavours of your sandwich together. Here are some options:

• Mayonnaise: Classic mayo or flavoured mayo (like garlic or herb mayo) can add a creamy texture and a tangy taste.
• Mustard: Spicy or plain mustard can add a kick to your sandwich.
• Cranberry Sauce: This classic condiment adds a sweet and tangy flavour and pairs perfectly with turkey.
• BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce can enhance the flavour of your smoked turkey.

Extras

• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a crunchy texture and a savoury flavour.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado contributes a creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Pickles: Dill pickles or other varieties can add a tangy crunch.

Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your ultimate smoked turkey sandwich!

Smoked turkey sandwich sides

Smoked turkey sandwiches are a lunchtime classic, and with the right ingredients, they can be taken to the next level. But what about the sides? Here are some ideas for sides to accompany your smoked turkey sandwich:

Salads

Salads are a great way to add some freshness and crunch to your meal. A simple garden salad with leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favourite dressing is always a good option. You could also try a potato salad, a classic side dish that pairs well with sandwiches. If you're looking for something with a bit more flavour, a curried egg salad or a potato salad with a tangy mustard dressing could be a tasty option.

Chips

Chips are always a popular side dish, and there are a few different options to consider. Crisps, or potato chips, can add a crunchy texture to your meal. For something more substantial, French fries or wedges are always a hit, especially when served with a dip like ranch or honey mustard.

Fruits and Vegetables

Adding some fruits or vegetables to your plate can provide a healthy and refreshing contrast to the sandwich. Sliced apples or tomatoes can be a great way to add a touch of sweetness to your meal. Pickles, either dill or sweet, can also be a tasty addition, especially if you're looking for something with a bit more crunch.

Soups

A hot bowl of soup can be a comforting and satisfying accompaniment to your sandwich. A classic option is a bowl of tomato soup, but you could also try something like a butternut squash or carrot soup for a slightly sweeter option. If you're feeling adventurous, a spicier soup like a chilli or a curry could be a fun way to add some heat to your meal.

Drinks

While not technically a side dish, pairing your smoked turkey sandwich with the right drink can elevate your dining experience. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade can be refreshing, especially during warmer months. For something a little more indulgent, a milkshake or a creamy smoothie could be a tasty treat.

Frequently asked questions