The Turkey Melt from McAlister's Deli features tender turkey breast, melted Swiss cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy tomato slices layered on toasted artisan bread, delivering a warm and savory sandwich with a satisfying crunch.
Equipments
- Slicer (for turkey and tomato)
- Cheese slicer (for Swiss cheese)
- Grill or Panini press
- Toaster or sandwich press
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Oven or stovetop (for bacon)
- Sheet pan or bacon press (for crisping bacon)
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- Sliced turkey breast
- Swiss cheese
- Bacon
- Tomato
- Artisan bread
Ensure your turkey breast is sliced thinly to achieve the tender texture characteristic of the Turkey Melt. Choose high-quality Swiss cheese, sliced evenly, to melt smoothly over the sandwich. Opt for thick-cut bacon and crisp it thoroughly using a sheet pan or bacon press for maximum crunch. Use ripe, firm tomato slices that hold up well and provide tangy contrast without sogginess. Your Turkey Melt copycat from McAlister's Deli will come closest to the original by layering these ingredients on toasted artisan bread.
Instructions
- Slice turkey breast using a slicer.
- Slice Swiss cheese using a cheese slicer.
- Slice tomato with a chef’s knife on a cutting board.
- Cook bacon in the oven or on the stovetop using a sheet pan or bacon press until crispy.
- Toast artisan bread with a toaster or sandwich press.
- Layer turkey, Swiss cheese, crispy bacon, and tomato slices on toasted artisan bread.
- Place the assembled sandwich on a grill or panini press; use a spatula and tongs for handling.
- Grill or press until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
- Remove the sandwich, slice if desired with the chef’s knife.
- Serve on a tray or plate.
Substitution
The Turkey Melt from McAlister's Deli copycat menu combines tender sliced turkey breast, melted Swiss cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh tomato slices on toasted artisan bread, creating a flavorful and satisfying sandwich experience. If you don't have Swiss cheese available, provolone or mozzarella can be suitable substitutes that melt well. When crispy bacon is unavailable, consider crisping turkey bacon or using smoked deli ham for a similar smoky flavor. Toast the artisan bread to your preferred crunch level using a toaster or sandwich press to enhance the texture. Use a sharp chef's knife for uniform slices of turkey and tomato to ensure even layering and easy eating.
Tips
Ensure your bacon is cooked until crispy but not burnt, as this adds a crucial texture contrast to the Turkey Melt from McAlister's Deli. When slicing turkey breast and tomato, maintain even thickness to promote uniform layering and consistent flavor in every bite. Toast artisan bread just enough to achieve a golden, crunchy exterior without drying out the interior, preserving the sandwich's moisture balance. Use tongs and a spatula carefully to handle the sandwich on the grill or panini press, preventing ingredients from shifting or the sandwich from falling apart.
Nutritions
Your Turkey Melt from McAlister's Deli offers a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Turkey breast provides lean protein, supporting muscle maintenance and repair. Swiss cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health, while the tomato delivers antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene. Bacon contributes savory flavor and some fat content, but should be enjoyed in moderation for a heart-healthy diet.
Storage
Store your Turkey Melt sandwich components separately to maintain freshness; keep sliced turkey breast and Swiss cheese in airtight containers within the refrigerator. Crisp bacon should be cooled and stored on a paper towel-lined plate inside the fridge to preserve crunchiness. For optimal texture, keep tomato slices in a shallow container with a lid and avoid stacking, while artisan bread is best stored in a bread box or wrapped in a linen cloth at room temperature to prevent staleness.
Variation or Alternatives
For a twist on the classic Turkey Melt, consider swapping Swiss cheese with sharp cheddar or pepper jack to add a bold flavor. You can replace artisan bread with a ciabatta roll or sourdough for a different texture and taste. If you prefer a healthier option, cook turkey slices in a pan with a light brush of olive oil instead of using pre-sliced deli meat. Grilling the sandwich in a panini press ensures even melting and crispiness, but you can also use a skillet and press down with a heavy pan to achieve a similar effect.
Allergies
The Turkey Melt contains common allergens such as dairy from the Swiss cheese and gluten from the artisan bread, which may cause reactions for individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. Bacon and turkey breast can also trigger allergies in those sensitive to poultry or pork products. Your allergy concerns should be discussed with McAlister's Deli staff to ensure safe meal choices.
Why this recipe?
The Turkey Melt menu from McAlister's Deli pairs tender roasted turkey breast with melted cheddar and Swiss cheeses, creating a savory and satisfying flavor profile that appeals to many customers. The sandwich is complemented by fresh ingredients like lettuce, tomato, and McAlister's signature mayo, enhancing its balanced taste and texture. You will find making a copycat version rewarding because it allows customization with high-quality ingredients while replicating the delicious, hearty experience McAlister's fans love. This homemade option offers both value and control over freshness, making it a worthwhile culinary project.