Hot Turkey Sandwich Recipe

Roast or prepare Ortega chiles

If your Ortega chiles aren't already roasted, roast them over a gas flame, under a broiler, or in a hot skillet until the skins are charred, turning to blister all sides (about 6–8 minutes). Place in a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid for 5–10 minutes to steam; this loosens the skins. Peel off charred skins, remove seeds if desired, and slice into 1/4-inch strips.

Prepare turkey

If turkey is cold from the fridge, bring to room temperature for 10–15 minutes or warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of olive oil until heated through (about 3–4 minutes). Keep slices separated so they reheat evenly.

Prepare avocado and tomato

Slice the tomato into 1/4-inch rounds. Halve the avocado, remove the pit, peel (or scoop), and slice into 1/4-inch slices. Lightly season avocado and tomato with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Assemble sandwiches

Lay out 4 bottom slices of bread. Spread about 1 tablespoon of honey mustard on each bottom slice. Divide the warmed turkey evenly among the 4 sandwiches (about 3/4 cup per sandwich). Top turkey with 1 slice of pepper jack, then arrange Ortega chile strips and tomato slices. Fan avocado slices over the tomato and top with the remaining pepper jack slice if you prefer double cheese. Spread 1 tablespoon honey mustard on each top slice of bread and place over filling.

Whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust honey or mustard for sweetness/spiciness. This makes a slightly tangy, sweet spread—about 1/3 cup total.

Pan-toast (preferred)

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon olive oil or use a dry nonstick pan. Spread softened butter on the outside faces of each assembled sandwich (both top and bottom). Place sandwiches in the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula or a heavy pan, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Reduce heat to medium-low if bread browns too quickly.

Oven option

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter the outside of each sandwich, place on a baking sheet, and bake 8–10 minutes per side, or until bread is golden and cheese is melted. If desired, finish under broiler for 1 minute to crisp the top—watch closely.

Serve

Remove sandwiches from heat and let rest 1 minute. Slice each sandwich in half on the diagonal. Serve immediately with extra honey mustard on the side for dipping.