Turkey Melt Recipe

Slice and season tomato

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds (about 4–6 slices). Lightly sprinkle both sides of the tomato slices with the salt and freshly ground black pepper. Set aside on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture for 2–3 minutes.

Tear or thinly slice the fresh mozzarella so it will melt evenly (if using a ball, slice into 1/4-inch pieces). Lay the mozzarella on a plate to come closer to room temperature for faster melting.

If your turkey slices are very thick, halve them horizontally so they are about 1/8–1/4 inch thick for even layering and easier melting.

Spread about 1 tablespoon of basil pesto evenly on one side of each of the four bread slices (reserve the other sides for buttering).

On two of the pesto-spread slices, layer half of the turkey (about 4 oz per sandwich), followed by an even layer of seasoned tomato slices, then basil leaves, and top with the mozzarella slices (3 oz per sandwich). Press gently to compact the sandwich.

Top each assembled sandwich with the remaining pesto-spread bread slices, pesto side down, creating two sandwiches.

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the butter and olive oil, allowing the butter to melt and foam but not brown (about 1 minute). The oil helps prevent burning.

Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes on the first side, pressing down gently with a spatula or a heavy pan to ensure good contact and even melting. Reduce heat to medium-low if bread browns too quickly.

Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for another 3–4 minutes, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the mozzarella is melted. If the cheese is slow to melt, cover the pan with a lid for 1–2 minutes to trap steam and aid melting.

Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board and let rest for 1 minute. Cut each sandwich in half on the diagonal and serve immediately.

For extra crispness, you can toast the buttered bread lightly in the pan before assembling, 1 minute per side, then proceed with assembly and a brief re-toast in the skillet to melt the cheese.

Serve with pickles, a simple side salad, or potato chips if desired.