Kimchi Turkey Cheddar Toast

Featured in: Everyday Favorites

This bold sandwich combines tangy kimchi with tender turkey breast and sharp cheddar, layered between sourdough bread and toasted to a golden brown. Butter coats the exterior for crispness while optional spreads like mayonnaise and Dijon mustard add subtle complexity. Cooked on medium heat until cheese melts, it delivers a perfect balance of savory and spicy flavors. Ideal for a quick main dish, it pairs well with light beverages and can be customized to taste.

Updated on Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:23:00 GMT
Golden, crispy Kimchi Turkey & Cheddar Toasted Grilled Cheese, a melty, savory sandwich treat. Pin
Golden, crispy Kimchi Turkey & Cheddar Toasted Grilled Cheese, a melty, savory sandwich treat. | crumbkiss.com

A bold and savory twist on classic grilled cheese, this sandwich features tangy kimchi, tender turkey, and sharp cheddar, all toasted to golden perfection.

I first tried this unique grilled cheese and was hooked by the bold flavors and melty texture.

Ingredients

  • Bread & Dairy: 4 slices sourdough bread, 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp unsalted butter softened
  • Meats: 120 g (4 oz) sliced cooked turkey breast
  • Vegetables & Condiments: 1/2 cup kimchi drained and roughly chopped, 1 tbsp mayonnaise (optional), 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
Lay out the bread slices. If desired, spread mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on one side of each slice.
Step 2:
Layer 2 slices of bread with cheddar cheese, followed by sliced turkey, an even layer of chopped kimchi, then another slice of cheddar. Top with the remaining bread slices.
Step 3:
Spread softened butter on the outside of each sandwich.
Step 4:
Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Step 5:
Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 6:
Remove from heat, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.
Warm, toasted Kimchi Turkey & Cheddar Grilled Cheese, with visible melted cheese and kimchi. Pin
Warm, toasted Kimchi Turkey & Cheddar Grilled Cheese, with visible melted cheese and kimchi. | crumbkiss.com

This sandwich always brings smiles at family lunches and quick dinners alike.

Preparation Tips

Make sure to drain the kimchi well to avoid soggy sandwiches and use softened butter for easier spreading.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp lager or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing meal.

Variations

Swap turkey for roast chicken or omit the meat for a vegetarian option, and add extra-hot kimchi for a spicy kick.

Delicious, cheesy pull from a freshly grilled Kimchi Turkey & Cheddar, ready to devour! Pin
Delicious, cheesy pull from a freshly grilled Kimchi Turkey & Cheddar, ready to devour! | crumbkiss.com

This grilled cheese is a flavorful upgrade to your lunch routine sure to satisfy every time.

Recipe FAQ

What type of bread works best?

Sourdough bread is recommended for its sturdy texture and slight tang, which complements the bold flavors.

Can I substitute the turkey?

Yes, roast chicken makes a great alternative, or omit meat for a vegetarian-friendly option.

How can I make it spicier?

Using extra-hot kimchi or adding chili flakes will increase the heat level effectively.

What is the best cooking method?

Cooking on a nonstick skillet over medium heat ensures the bread crisps evenly while melting the cheese thoroughly.

Are there allergen concerns?

Yes, this includes wheat from the bread, dairy from cheese and butter, and potential mustard or egg from optional spreads. Kimchi may contain seafood allergens depending on ingredients.

Kimchi Turkey Cheddar Toast

Savory toasted sandwich featuring tangy kimchi, turkey breast, and melted sharp cheddar cheese.

Prep duration
10 min
Cook duration
8 min
Complete duration
18 min


Complexity Easy

Heritage American-Fusion

Output 2 Portions

Dietary guidelines None specified

Components

Bread & Dairy

01 4 slices sourdough bread
02 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
03 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Meats

01 4 ounces sliced cooked turkey breast

Vegetables & Condiments

01 ½ cup kimchi, drained and roughly chopped
02 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)
03 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

Method

Phase 01

Prepare bread with condiments: Arrange bread slices on a clean surface. Spread mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on one side of each slice if using.

Phase 02

Assemble sandwich layers: On two slices of bread, layer sharp cheddar cheese, followed by sliced turkey breast, then chopped kimchi, and another slice of cheddar before topping with remaining bread slices.

Phase 03

Butter the sandwich exterior: Evenly spread softened butter on the outsides of each sandwich to ensure golden browning.

Phase 04

Heat the skillet: Preheat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Phase 05

Grill sandwiches: Place sandwiches in the hot skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese fully melted.

Phase 06

Rest and serve: Remove sandwiches from skillet, allow resting for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.

Necessary tools

  • Large nonstick skillet or griddle
  • Spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult healthcare providers if you're uncertain.
  • Contains wheat, milk, egg (if mayonnaise used), and mustard (if used). Kimchi may contain seafood allergens such as fish sauce or shrimp paste.

Nutritional breakdown (per portion)

These values are approximate guides only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 430
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Protein: 26 g