Can I use different bread if I don’t have Texas Toast garlic bread?

Absolutely. Any thick, crusty bread will be delicious—just slather with a mix of butter and garlic powder before grilling to mimic the same savory effect.

What cheeses work best if I don’t have gouda or white American?

Try sharp cheddar for bold flavor, Swiss for nuttiness, or mozzarella for ultimate melt. Mix and match cheeses to discover your favorite combination.

Is it possible to make these sandwiches ahead of time for meal prep?

You can assemble the sandwiches ahead and refrigerate them (ungrilled) for several hours. Grill them just before serving, or if already cooked, re-toast in a pan or oven for the best texture.

Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and your favorite plant-based cheeses—there are so many meltable options on the market now. Just keep an eye on the garlic bread ingredients, too.

Grilled Turkey and Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Name: Grilled Turkey and Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices Texas Toast frozen garlic bread; 2 slices gouda cheese; 2 slices white American cheese; Sliced deli turkey meat (enough to cover 2 sandwiches); 2 Tbsp. butter

Here’s a sandwich that will change the way you think about fast, flavorful lunches and dinners! This Grilled Turkey and Cheese Sandwich is serious comfort food made spectacularly easy, with gooey melted cheese, savory deli turkey, and golden, buttery garlic bread. Best of all? You’ll need only 20 minutes from start to finish, making this sandwich a weeknight superstar. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids, rushing between work calls, or just craving something cozy, this sandwich will never let you down.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Simple: The hardest part is waiting for the cheese to melt. This recipe takes practically no effort at all, especially because you start with frozen garlic bread—no mixing, slicing, or fussing around required.
Major Flavor Punch: Using Texas Toast garlic bread as the “bun” is a game changer. It delivers crispy edges, buttery flavor, and the kind of savory bite you usually only get from restaurant sandwiches.
Ultimate Cheese Pulls: Combining both Gouda and white American cheese creates that irresistible melt and just the right balance of creamy, smoky, and mild flavors.
Perfect for Busy Nights: The secret is in the shortcuts—the deli turkey, pre-made garlic bread, and just a skillet or griddle on hand make this meal not just doable, but delightful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Texas Toast Frozen Garlic Bread: Acts as the thick, crusty “bread” of this sandwich with loads of garlic-butter flavor. No need for boring plain slices!
Sliced Deli Turkey Meat: A lean, tender protein that heats quickly and keeps the sandwich nice and juicy.
Gouda Cheese: Provides just the right amount of nutty, buttery depth and melts beautifully when grilled.
White American Cheese: Delivers that classic creamy melt and mild taste reminiscent of a perfect grilled cheese—pairs so well with both turkey and gouda.
Butter: Spread in the skillet for extra richness and to help create that golden, crispy finish on the bread.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Add a Punch of Heat: Layer in a few slices of pickled jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper between the turkey and cheese.
Make it Smoky: Swap out the deli turkey for smoked turkey or even sliced smoked chicken breast.
Veggie Boost: Roast thin slices of tomato or sautéed spinach and tuck them in between the cheeses.
Other Cheese Lovers Unite: Try provolone, mozzarella, or sharp cheddar in place of gouda, or use a combination for your own twist.
Double Decker: If you’re really hungry, double up the layers and make this a club-style grilled sandwich.
Garlic Bread Swap: If you can’t find Texas Toast, use any thick-sliced bread and brush it liberally with melted butter and garlic powder.

How to Make Grilled Turkey and Cheese Sandwich

Step 1: Bake the Garlic Bread

Start by following the instructions on your package of Texas Toast frozen garlic bread. Bake until golden, crispy, and the kitchen is filled with the aroma of garlic and butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Skillet

While the bread is baking, melt butter in a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. This step is key for getting that extra-crispy exterior once the sandwich goes in.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

Lay one slice of garlic bread, golden side down, into the skillet. Quickly layer on a slice of gouda cheese, a slice of white American cheese, and as much deli turkey as you like. Then, top with the other slice of garlic bread.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Cook the sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing down gently with a spatula. You want that cheese to melt thoroughly and the bread to turn an even deeper golden brown. Don’t rush this part—letting the cheese fully melt makes all the difference.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the sandwich cool for a moment to set, then slice in half (diagonal cuts are extra satisfying). Prepare for that first cheesy, garlicky, savory bite!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Low and Slow Wins: Don’t crank up the heat! Medium heat ensures the cheese melts before the bread toasts too much.
No Skimping on Cheese: The double-cheese combo is what gives this sandwich its wow factor, so don’t hold back.
Add-ins Go Between the Cheese: For best results, place any extras—like tomatoes, spinach, or even more turkey—between the cheese slices for extra stick-together power.
Let Rest Before Slicing: A minute or two off the heat helps the cheese set just enough so you get perfect halves.

How to Serve

This Grilled Turkey and Cheese Sandwich truly shines on its own, but there are plenty of tasty pairings:

Serve with Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup or creamy potato soup makes a classic match.
Add a Simple Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts the richness of the sandwich.
Pickle Power: Add a crunchy dill pickle or pickled onions on the side for zip.
Chips or Fries: Go for classic potato chips, sweet potato fries, or even some kettle-cooked chips for crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The bread may soften overnight, but a quick re-toast will revive it.

Freezing

Fully assembled and cooked sandwiches freeze surprisingly well. Let the sandwich cool completely, then wrap in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or skillet over medium-low heat. This brings back the bread’s crispiness and revives melted cheese. In a pinch, use the microwave, but be aware the bread may turn soft.

FAQs

Can I use different bread if I don’t have Texas Toast garlic bread?

Absolutely. Any thick, crusty bread will be delicious—just slather with a mix of butter and garlic powder before grilling to mimic the same savory effect.
What cheeses work best if I don’t have gouda or white American?

Try sharp cheddar for bold flavor, Swiss for nuttiness, or mozzarella for ultimate melt. Mix and match cheeses to discover your favorite combination.
Is it possible to make these sandwiches ahead of time for meal prep?

You can assemble the sandwiches ahead and refrigerate them (ungrilled) for several hours. Grill them just before serving, or if already cooked, re-toast in a pan or oven for the best texture.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and your favorite plant-based cheeses—there are so many meltable options on the market now. Just keep an eye on the garlic bread ingredients, too.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a golden, melty Grilled Turkey and Cheese Sandwich, especially when it’s jam-packed with flavor and ready in minutes. The combination of buttery garlic bread and double cheeses just can’t be beat, and once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Give it a go the next time you need a quick, hearty meal and don’t be afraid to make it your own—experiment, indulge, and enjoy every bite!