Save A hearty, protein-packed twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring savory turkey bacon, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, all melted together with gooey cheese between crispy golden bread.
I first served this to my family on a busy weeknight and it quickly became a favorite comfort meal that’s fast and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- Bread & Dairy: 4 slices whole grain bread, 4 slices reduced-fat cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese), 2 tablespoons light cream cheese softened, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or olive oil spread)
- Proteins: 4 slices turkey bacon
- Vegetables: 1 cup fresh baby spinach washed and dried, 1 medium tomato thinly sliced
- Seasonings: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Step 2:
- Cook the turkey bacon in the skillet until crispy, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Step 3:
- Lightly butter one side of each bread slice.
- Step 4:
- Spread 1/2 tablespoon of cream cheese on the non-buttered side of each slice.
- Step 5:
- On two of the bread slices (cream cheese side up), layer: spinach leaves, tomato slices, turkey bacon, and cheddar cheese. Sprinkle with black pepper and a pinch of salt if desired.
- Step 6:
- Top with the remaining bread slices, cream cheese side down, so the buttered sides are on the outside.
- Step 7:
- Place the sandwiches on the skillet. Cook for 34 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Step 8:
- Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve hot.
Save This sandwich quickly became a weekend brunch staple that I love sharing with my kids as we catch up before the day starts.
Tips for Best Results
Make sure the skillet is hot enough to crisp the bread but not so hot that the cheese doesn’t melt evenly. Press gently while cooking to achieve a perfect golden crust.
Variations
Try adding a fried egg inside for extra protein or swapping turkey bacon for smoked ham or turkey slices for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the grilled cheese with a light soup or fresh salad to balance the richness and create a complete meal.
Save This protein-packed grilled cheese is easy to customize and sure to be a family favorite any day of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I get the bread crispy without burning it?
Use medium heat and butter the bread lightly. Press gently while cooking to achieve even browning without burning.
- → Can I substitute turkey bacon with another protein?
Yes, options like regular bacon, chicken breast slices, or even plant-based bacon substitutes work well.
- → What cheese types can be used besides cheddar?
Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella can be swapped to add different flavors and textures.
- → How can I make this melt gluten-free?
Simply replace the whole grain bread with your preferred gluten-free bread to keep it safe and tasty.
- → Is it better to use fresh or cooked spinach?
Fresh baby spinach is preferred for its mild flavor and texture; it wilts slightly from the heat during cooking.
- → What sides pair well with this melt?
Light soups or fresh salads complement this sandwich nicely, adding balance to the meal.