Save A festive, spicy-sweet twist on the classic grilled cheese, featuring juicy turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, melty cheese, and a kick of jalapeño, all toasted to golden perfection in the air fryer.
This sandwich became an instant favorite at our holiday gatherings, combining unexpected flavors with the comfort of a grilled cheese.
Ingredients
- Bread & Spreads: 4 slices sourdough bread, 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
- Cheese: 4 slices Swiss cheese (or cheddar if preferred)
- Meats: 4 oz cooked turkey breast sliced
- Fruit & Vegetables: 2 tbsp cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied), 1 fresh jalapeño thinly sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
- Optional: 2 tbsp cream cheese softened (optional for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Step 2:
- Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice.
- Step 3:
- On the non-buttered sides, layer as follows: (If using) Spread 1 tbsp cream cheese on each bottom slice. Lay one slice of Swiss cheese. Top with half the turkey slices. Spoon 1 tbsp cranberry sauce over the turkey. Scatter half the jalapeño slices over the cranberry. Add another slice of cheese. Finish with the second slice of bread buttered side out.
- Step 4:
- Place both sandwiches in the air fryer basket.
- Step 5:
- Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6-7 minutes flipping halfway until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Step 6:
- Let cool for 1 minute cut in half and serve immediately.
Save This recipe always reminds me of cozy family mornings when everyone fights over the last sandwich.
Notes
For a milder flavor use less jalapeño or substitute with pickled jalapeños. Try adding baby spinach or arugula for a fresh touch. Pairs well with a crisp apple cider or a light Pinot Noir.
Required Tools
Air fryer, serrated knife, butter knife, cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (bread) Milk (cheese butter cream cheese if used). May contain Soy (check bread and cheese labels). Always check product labels for hidden allergens.
Save This sandwich brings a perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory with minimal effort.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I adjust the spiciness of the sandwich?
Yes, remove jalapeño seeds or use pickled jalapeños for milder heat, or add more slices if you prefer extra spice.
- → What cheese works best for this sandwich?
Swiss cheese offers a mild nuttiness, but cheddar can be used for a sharper flavor. Cream cheese adds extra creaminess if desired.
- → Can I substitute turkey with other meats?
Deli chicken or leftover roast chicken work well as alternatives to turkey, maintaining similar textures and flavors.
- → How do I get a crispier bread crust?
Spreading butter evenly on the bread and air frying at 375°F for 6-7 minutes, flipping halfway, yields a golden, crispy crust.
- → Are there suggested drink pairings?
Try pairing with crisp apple cider or a light Pinot Noir to complement the sandwich’s sweet and spicy notes.