Easy Turkey Havarti Apple Sandwich Recipe

Okay, here we go! Let’s turn this sandwich recipe into something that feels like it’s coming straight from my chaotic kitchen to your hopefully-less-chaotic one! This isn’t just any sandwich; it’s the Easy Turkey Havarti Apple Sandwich Recipe—the kind that makes you feel fancy without needing to put on pants. It’s the perfect combo of savory, sweet, and creamy that hits all the right spots!
My family? Oh man, they are OBSESSED with these sandwiches. I started making them when I was trying to use up some leftover Thanksgiving turkey (because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t have a ton of that stuff?). Now, even when it’s not November, my husband begs me to make them. He calls it “that fancy sandwich thing you do,” which always makes me laugh because, seriously, it’s the easiest thing ever. One time, my toddler even snuck half of my sandwich when I wasn’t looking. I wasn’t even mad—just impressed by his good taste!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Turkey Havarti Apple Sandwich Recipe
- It’s ridiculously easy—like, even-a-tired-parent-can-handle-it easy.
- The apple and Havarti cheese are a match made in sandwich heaven. Seriously, that sweet and creamy combo? Mwah!
- It’s a great way to use up leftover turkey, but honestly, I buy turkey just to make these sometimes. Don’t judge me.
- It feels a little bit gourmet without any of the fuss. Hello, impressive lunch!
How to Make It
Okay, so first things first, grab your bread. I usually use some kind of sourdough because I’m a sucker for the tangy-ness. But honestly, anything goes. Even that slightly stale loaf you’ve been meaning to throw out. Just kidding! (Sort of.)
Next, slather on some Dijon mustard. Don’t be shy with it. If you’re not a mustard person, maybe try a little bit of mayo or even some cranberry sauce if you’re feeling festive.
Then, layer on your turkey. I use deli turkey most of the time because who has time to roast a whole bird on a Tuesday? But if you’ve got leftover roasted turkey, even better!
Now for the star of the show: Havarti cheese. Oh man, I love this cheese. It’s so creamy and mild, it goes with everything. Slice it up and layer it on top of the turkey.
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And don’t forget the apple! Thinly sliced apples add the perfect amount of sweetness and crunch. I usually use Granny Smith because I like the tartness, but Honeycrisp is also amazing.
Finally, top it all off with another slice of bread and you’re good to go! You can eat it as is, or you can grill it up in a panini press or skillet with a little butter for extra melty-ness. I highly recommend the latter.
Ingredient Notes
- Turkey: Leftover roasted turkey is the BEST, but deli turkey works in a pinch. Just try to get the good stuff, not that rubbery kind. Blegh.
- Havarti Cheese: Don’t even THINK about skipping this. It’s the key to the whole sandwich. If you absolutely have to substitute, maybe try Gruyere or Swiss, but Havarti is where it’s at.
- Apple: I like Granny Smith for the tartness, but Honeycrisp or even Fuji will work. Just make sure it’s thinly sliced, unless you want to bite into a giant chunk of apple.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice zing! If you’re not into mustard, a little mayo or cranberry sauce works well. I even tried horseradish once, which was…interesting.
- Bread: Sourdough is my go-to, but any bread will do. Even that weird whole wheat loaf you bought on a whim.
Recipe Steps:
- Spread Dijon mustard on one slice of bread.
- Layer turkey slices on the mustard-covered bread.
- Add sliced Havarti cheese over the turkey.
- Arrange thinly sliced apple on top of the cheese.
- Top with the other slice of bread.
- Grill in a panini press or skillet with butter (optional, but HIGHLY recommended).
- Serve and enjoy immediately!
What to Serve It With
Honestly? This sandwich is pretty perfect on its own. But if you’re looking to make it a full meal, some potato chips or a simple side salad would be great. Or, if you’re feeling fancy, a bowl of tomato soup. Because who doesn’t love a good sandwich and soup combo?
Tips & Mistakes
- Don’t overstuff the sandwich! It’s tempting to pile on all the ingredients, but it’ll just make it harder to eat. Trust me, I’ve been there.
- If you’re grilling the sandwich, keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Burnt cheese is sad cheese.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses and apples. This recipe is just a guideline, feel free to make it your own!
Storage Tips
Okay, so if you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge. But be warned: the bread might get a little soggy, especially if you used mustard. Honestly, it’s best eaten fresh. If you happen to have some for breakfast the next day? No judgment here. I’ve totally done that. Cold sandwich for breakfast is a perfectly acceptable meal in my book.
Variations and Substitutions
- No Havarti? Try Gruyere, Swiss, or even a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor.
- Out of apples? Pears would be a good substitute. Or, if you’re feeling really adventurous, try some thinly sliced grapes.
- Don’t like Dijon mustard? Use mayo, cranberry sauce, or even a little bit of honey.
- No turkey? Ham or roast beef would also be delicious. Or, for a vegetarian option, try some grilled veggies like zucchini and eggplant.
Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Turkey Havarti Apple Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices whole wheat bread toasted if desired
- 8 slices deli turkey breast thinly sliced
- 4 slices Havarti cheese creamy
- 1 whole Granny Smith apple thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup arugula fresh
- 0.5 tsp black pepper freshly ground
- 0.5 tsp salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Spread mayonnaise on four slices of bread.
- Layer two slices of turkey, one slice of Havarti cheese, and thin apple slices on each mayonnaise-coated bread slice.
- Top with arugula and sprinkle with black pepper and salt.
- Spread Dijon mustard on the remaining bread slices and place on top of each sandwich.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your sandwich.