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Easy 5-Ingredient Turkey and Cheese Uncrustables

turkey and cheese uncrustables - featured image

These Easy 5-Ingredient Turkey and Cheese Uncrustables are a quick and delicious lunch option, featuring a sealed pocket of melty cheese and turkey in golden, buttery bread. Perfect for lunchboxes, picnics, or a simple meal that comes together in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices of white bread (or your favorite sandwich bread)
  • 8 ounces of thinly sliced turkey breast (deli counter recommended)
  • 4 slices of cheddar cheese (medium cheddar melts perfectly)
  • 2 tablespoons of salted butter, softened
  • Pinch of garlic powder and black pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Start by softening your butter. Take the butter out of the fridge about 15 minutes before you start, or give it a quick 10-second zap in the microwave. You want it spreadable but not melted.
  2. Lay out 4 slices of bread on your work surface. Using a rolling pin, gently roll each slice until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Don’t go too thin or the bread will tear.
  3. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice. This buttered side will be the outside of your uncrustable. Make sure you get all the way to the edges.
  4. Flip the bread over so the buttered side is facing down. Now you’re working with the unbuttered side facing up. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of garlic powder and pepper on this side if using.
  5. Layer your fillings on one half of each slice. Place one slice of cheese on the left half of the bread, then fold a couple slices of turkey on top of the cheese. Don’t overstuff.
  6. Fold the empty half of the bread over the filling. You’re creating a half-moon shape. Press down gently along the edges to start the sealing process.
  7. Now for the crimping—this is the most important step. Take your fork and press down firmly along the curved edge of the half-moon. Start at one end and work your way to the other, making sure the tines go all the way through both layers of bread. Press down twice to ensure a tight seal.
  8. Trim off the crusts if you want that classic uncrustable look. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to follow the curve of your fork crimps, cutting off the excess bread.
  9. Heat your skillet over medium heat. Place your uncrustables in the pan, leaving a little space between each one. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  10. Carefully flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes. The cheese should be melted and the bread should be golden on both sides.
  11. Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving. The melted cheese is very hot straight out of the pan.

Notes

For best results, use fresh, soft bread. If bread is older, warm it in the microwave for 10 seconds to make it more pliable. Avoid overstuffing to ensure a good seal. For a lighter version, use whole wheat bread and low-fat cheese. These can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before cooking, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey and cheese uncrustables, easy lunch, kid-friendly, 5-ingredient, sandwich pockets, lunchbox ideas