The humble hero sandwich – a staple of lunchboxes, picnics, and late-night snacks. But why settle for just any old filling when you can create a masterpiece? In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with 20 delicious hero sandwich recipes to suit every taste and occasion.
From classic combinations like salami and provolone to innovative twists like grilled chicken pesto and buffalo chicken, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, spicy, or even sweet (yes, really!), we’ve got a hero sandwich recipe that’s perfect for you.
So grab some bread, start stacking those toppings, and get ready to elevate your lunch game with our ultimate list of hero sandwich recipes!
Classic Italian Hero Sandwich with Salami and Provolone
A classic Italian sandwich that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, featuring salami and provolone cheese on a crusty sub roll.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian hero bread rolls (or similar)
– 8 oz salami, sliced
– 2 cups shredded provolone cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the salami into thin strips.
3. Place the bread rolls on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading marinara sauce on each roll, followed by a layer of salami and a sprinkle of provolone cheese.
5. Top with additional provolone cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including toasting the bread)
Philly Cheesesteak Hero with Caramelized Onions
Savor the classic flavors of Philadelphia’s iconic cheesesteaks with this mouthwatering recipe, elevated by the sweetness of caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated provolone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by cooking them in butter over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading cheese on hoagie rolls, adding sliced steak and caramelized onions.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Hero with Chipotle Mayo
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful combination of juicy turkey, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and spicy chipotle mayo. A perfect blend of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of hero bread
– 2 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chipotle mayonnaise (see note)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay the hero bread slices on a flat surface.
3. Arrange the sliced turkey, mashed avocado, and crumbled bacon on one slice of bread.
4. Spread chipotle mayonnaise on the other slice of bread.
5. Assemble the sandwich by placing the mayo-covered bread on top of the filling.
6. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Note: To make chipotle mayonnaise, mix together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, and 1 tablespoon lime juice.
Roast Beef and Horseradish Hero on Ciabatta
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful combination of tender roast beef, tangy horseradish sauce, and crispy ciabatta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roast beef (thinly sliced)
– 1/4 cup horseradish sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 4 slices of ciabatta bread
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips.
3. Spread a layer of horseradish sauce on each slice of ciabatta.
4. Top with sliced roast beef, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
5. Add lettuce and tomato slices if desired.
6. Place sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pesto Hero with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This refreshing sandwich combines the flavors of grilled chicken, creamy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes on a crusty hero roll. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 slices of sun-dried tomatoes
– 1 large hero roll
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the hero roll by grilling it for 30 seconds on each side or baking in oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
4. Spread pesto on the toasted hero roll.
5. Slice grilled chicken and place on top of pesto.
6. Add sun-dried tomatoes and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Veggie-Packed Hero with Hummus and Feta
This hearty wrap is packed with roasted vegetables, creamy hummus, and tangy feta cheese, making it the perfect fuel for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole wheat pita bread
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup roasted red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup roasted zucchini, sliced
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss bell pepper and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Spread hummus evenly over the pita bread.
3. Top hummus with roasted vegetables, chickpeas, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Meatball Hero with Marinara Sauce
Spicy Meatball Hero with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Elevate your pasta game with this bold and flavorful Spicy Meatball Hero, featuring tender meatballs smothered in a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-10 oz spaghetti
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and cooked meatballs. Simmer over medium heat for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve meatball mixture over cooked spaghetti, topped with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Hero with Coleslaw
This classic comfort food combines the richness of slow-cooked pork with the tanginess of coleslaw, all wrapped up in a soft bun. Perfect for a casual dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 hamburger bun
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours or until tender.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and place it on the hamburger bun.
6. Top with coleslaw, pickle slices (if using), and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Tuna Melt Hero with Swiss Cheese and Pickles
A classic comfort food sandwich that combines the richness of tuna salad with the creaminess of Swiss cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy bun and topped with crunchy pickles.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet.
5. Top with the tuna mixture, Swiss cheese, and pickles.
6. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Hero with Blue Cheese Dressing
This classic sandwich combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy blue cheese dressing, all wrapped up in a crusty hero roll. Perfect for game day or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 ounces blue cheese crumbles
– 1 head of lettuce, chopped
– 1 tomato, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes).
3. Remove chicken from heat and toss with Frank’s RedHot sauce until coated.
4. Meanwhile, toast hoagie rolls by placing them in the oven for 2-3 minutes or grilling them for a few seconds.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading blue cheese dressing on each roll, then topping with buffalo chicken, lettuce, and tomato.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Cuban-Style Hero with Ham, Pork, and Pickles
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this iconic sandwich, featuring ham, pork, pickles, and melted Swiss cheese on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices Cuban-style bread (or similar)
– 2 oz thinly sliced ham
– 2 oz thinly sliced roasted pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup finely chopped dill pickles
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 2 slices Swiss cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, on the press or grill.
4. Top with a slice of ham, followed by a slice of pork, and a few pickle pieces.
5. Add a slice of Swiss cheese on top.
6. Place another slice of bread, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Caprese Hero with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
A classic Italian-inspired sandwich that combines sweet, creamy mozzarella with fresh basil leaves on a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of baguette
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the baguette into 4 equal pieces.
3. Grill the bread slices until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Top each bread slice with a layer of mozzarella cheese, followed by a few sprigs of chopped basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with olive oil, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time + assembly)
Reuben Hero with Corned Beef and Sauerkraut
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic sandwich. This Reuben Hero is packed with tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on rye bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading Thousand Island dressing on each slice of rye bread, then topping with a few slices of corned beef, some sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese.
3. Place the sandwiches on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with lettuce leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Greek Gyro Hero with Tzatziki Sauce
A flavorful and satisfying twist on traditional gyros, this recipe features juicy chicken, crispy pita bread, and a refreshing dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 pita breads
– 1 cup tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– Toppings: chopped cucumber, tomato, red onion, feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breast.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by slicing the grilled chicken into thin strips and placing it on a warmed pita bread.
7. Top with tzatziki sauce, cucumber, tomato, red onion, and feta cheese.
Tzatziki Sauce Recipe:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BLT Hero with Crispy Bacon and Garlic Aioli
Transform a timeless favorite into an unforgettable sandwich by adding the richness of crispy bacon and the pungency of garlic aioli.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (toasted)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil.
2. Cook the bacon slices until crispy, flipping halfway through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, garlic, salt, and pepper to create garlic aioli.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of garlic aioli on each toasted bread slice, followed by a tomato slice, 2-3 pieces of crispy bacon, and a lettuce leaf.
5. Top with another toasted bread slice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (plus prep time)
French Dip Hero with Au Jus for Dipping
Elevate your sandwich game with this classic French Dip Hero recipe, served with a rich and savory au jus for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or rump roast
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Au Jus (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.
3. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips.
4. Place the beef slices on the hoagie rolls.
5. Brush the beef with the butter mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the beef is cooked through.
Au Jus:
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Combine broth, wine (if using), and butter in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally. Serve with the French Dip Hero for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Hero with Cream Cheese and Bacon
Elevate your snack game with this spicy and savory recipe that combines the flavors of cream cheese, crispy bacon, and juicy jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jalapeños
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cream cheese and crumbled bacon until smooth.
4. Stuff each jalapeño half with the cream cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Place stuffed jalapeños on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (if using) over the top of the peppers.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cream cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Hero with Melted Mozzarella
A classic Italian-American dish gets a heroic twist! This recipe brings together juicy chicken, crispy breaded hero roll, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hero rolls
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the chicken by pounding it thin, then dipping in the beaten egg and coating with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Place hero rolls on a baking sheet and toast for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a cooked chicken breast on each roll, topping with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Breakfast Hero with Scrambled Eggs and Sausage
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast dish featuring scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and toasted English muffins. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 cooked sausages (such as pork or chicken)
– 2 English muffins, toasted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble until the eggs are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast the English muffins until lightly browned.
4. Place a sausage on top of each English muffin half. Spoon scrambled eggs alongside the sausage.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Portobello Mushroom Hero with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your sandwich game with this earthy, savory, and sweet combination.
Ingredients:
– 4 Portobello mushrooms, stems removed and caps sliced 1/2 inch thick
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hero rolls (or your favorite sandwich bread)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add mushroom slices and toss to coat.
3. Place mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes or until reduced and syrupy.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing baked mushrooms on hero rolls. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these 20 delicious hero sandwiches! From classic combinations like Italian salami and provolone to creative twists like buffalo chicken and blue cheese dressing, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for a satisfying lunch or a hearty dinner, these recipes are sure to please. With options ranging from traditional heroes with meats and cheeses to more adventurous choices featuring grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and even breakfast-inspired fillings, there’s no shortage of inspiration here.
