Are you tired of the same old boring lunch options? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 delicious and unique deli sandwich recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic combinations like pastrami on rye to more adventurous options like vegan deli sandwiches with smoked tofu, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a show-stopping dinner option, these recipes have got you covered. With flavors ranging from spicy Italian subs to Mediterranean veggie sandwiches, there’s no excuse not to get creative in the kitchen. So go ahead, grab your favorite bread, meats, cheeses, and condiments, and start building the perfect sandwich!
Classic Reuben Sandwich with Homemade Russian Dressing
This iconic sandwich is a staple of Jewish deli cuisine, featuring tender corned beef, crispy rye bread, and melted Swiss cheese, all held together by a tangy and creamy homemade Russian dressing. This recipe is a classic take on the Reuben, using simple ingredients to create a flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons butter, divided
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup homemade Russian dressing (see below)
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices for garnish
Homemade Russian Dressing:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each rye bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading Russian dressing on the unbuttered side of two slices, then topping with corned beef, Swiss cheese, and lettuce leaves.
4. Place the other bread slices, buttered side up, on top of the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ultimate Turkey Club Sandwich with Avocado and Bacon
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouthwatering combination of juicy turkey, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and fresh lettuce on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices whole wheat bread
– 4 oz sliced turkey breast
– 6 slices cooked bacon
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, tomato, cucumber)
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay the bread slices on a flat surface. Spread mayonnaise on one slice and mashed avocado on the other.
3. Top each bread slice with sliced turkey, 3-4 pieces of cooked bacon, mixed greens, and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for about 5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the ingredients are heated through.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spicy Italian Sub with Pepperoncini and Provolone
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a spicy kick, featuring pepperoncini peppers and melted provolone cheese on a crispy sub roll. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 Italian sub roll
– 8 oz sliced salami
– 4 oz sliced ham
– 2 slices of provolone cheese
– 4-6 pepperoncini peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Mayonnaise or spread (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay the sub roll on a flat surface and add slices of salami and ham, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Top with provolone cheese and sliced pepperoncini peppers.
4. Drizzle mayonnaise or spread (if using) over the top of the sandwich.
5. Place the sub in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Sandwich with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful and crispy creation, featuring juicy grilled chicken, creamy Caesar dressing, and crunchy Parmesan crisps.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Italian-style)
– 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast bread slices by grilling them lightly or in a toaster.
5. Spread Caesar dressing on toasted bread.
6. Slice grilled chicken into strips and place on top of dressing.
7. Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over chicken.
8. For the crisps, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly and bake for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
9. Assemble sandwiches by placing chicken on bread, followed by crisps.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastrami on Rye with Spicy Mustard and Pickles
This classic sandwich is a masterclass in flavors and textures, featuring thick-cut pastrami, crispy rye bread, tangy pickles, and a spicy kick from the mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pastrami, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons spiced mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– 1/4 cup pickle slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the pastrami into thin strips.
3. Spread one side of each rye bread slice with spiced mustard.
4. Add two slices of pastrami on top of the mustard.
5. Top with pickle slices and season with salt and pepper.
6. Assemble the sandwiches, placing the pastrami-side down.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the pastrami is crispy.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Mediterranean Veggie Deli Sandwich with Hummus
This flavorful sandwich combines the creaminess of hummus with the freshness of Mediterranean vegetables, all wrapped up in a crispy pita bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pita bread
– 2 tbsp hummus
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned
– 1/4 cup roasted red bell pepper strips
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spread the hummus evenly on the pita bread.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices, olives, artichoke hearts, and red bell pepper strips on top of the hummus.
3. Sprinkle feta cheese, if using.
4. Fold the pita bread in half to enclose the filling.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
French Dip Sandwich with Au Jus for Dipping
Savor the rich flavors of a classic French dip sandwich paired with a savory au jus for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef top round or rump roast
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: horseradish sauce for added spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the beef in a hot skillet on both sides, then transfer to a slow cooker or Dutch oven.
4. Add butter, garlic, and beef broth to the slow cooker or Dutch oven. Cover and cook for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Strain the au jus into a saucepan, discarding solids. Whisk in flour to thicken.
6. Assemble sandwiches by slicing the beef thinly and placing on hoagie rolls. Serve with warm au jus for dipping.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (slow cooker or Dutch oven) + 15 minutes (thickening au jus)
BBQ Pulled Pork Deli Sandwich with Coleslaw
Get ready for a mouthwatering combination of tender pulled pork, tangy coleslaw, and crispy deli bread. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices and red onion (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 in a large Dutch oven or braising pan, cover with foil, and bake for 6-8 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in the BBQ sauce.
6. Split the hamburger buns in half and toast.
7. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of coleslaw on each bun, followed by the pulled pork, pickle slices, and red onion (if using).
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Caprese Panini with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
Elevate your lunch game with this classic Italian-inspired sandwich that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. With fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil all wrapped up in a crispy baguette, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 4 equal pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of mozzarella on each bread slice, followed by a tomato round, a sprinkle of basil, and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Deli Sandwich with Blue Cheese Dressing
This sandwich combines the spicy kick of buffalo chicken with the tangy creaminess of blue cheese dressing, all piled high on a crusty baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken (such as rotisserie chicken)
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 deli-style sandwiches buns
– 8 ounces blue cheese crumbles
– 1 head of lettuce, shredded
– 1 tomato, sliced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the chicken and Frank’s RedHot sauce until well combined.
2. Butter the outside of each sandwich bun.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of blue cheese dressing on the bottom bun, followed by a few spoonfuls of the buffalo chicken mixture, some shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, and thinly sliced red onion.
4. Top with the top bun.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Melt Deli Sandwich with Cheddar and Tomato
Elevate your lunch game with this classic tuna melt sandwich, packed with juicy tuna, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh tomato on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 medium tomato, sliced
– 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, salt, and pepper.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
5. Spread the tuna mixture on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Add sliced tomato on top of the tuna.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tomato.
8. Top with the second bread slice, butter-side up.
9. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
10. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich with Caramelized Onions
A twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, this recipe adds sweet and savory caramelized onions to elevate the flavor profile. This sandwich is a perfect combination of tender steak, melted cheese, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ribeye or top round steak, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 slices provolone or Cheez Whiz
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: ketchup, mustard, or hot peppers for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the steak strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness. Let cool.
3. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-low heat. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing sliced steak onto hoagie rolls, followed by melted cheese and caramelized onions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Egg Salad Deli Sandwich with Fresh Dill
A classic combination of creamy egg salad and fresh dill on toasted bread makes for a satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of deli-style rye or whole wheat bread
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped eggs, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
3. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
4. Spread about 1 tablespoon of the egg salad on each slice of toasted bread.
5. Top with lettuce leaves if desired.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by placing two slices together.
Cooking Time: None required!
Roast Beef and Horseradish Cream Sandwich
Roast Beef and Horseradish Cream Sandwich Recipe
Elevate your sandwich game with this classic combination of tender roast beef and spicy horseradish cream on toasted bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roast beef, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– 4 slices white bread (or preferred sandwich bread)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Slice the roast beef into thin strips.
3. Spread one side of each bread slice with butter.
4. Place a few slices of roast beef on each bread slice, leaving room at the top for cream and condiments.
5. In a small bowl, mix together horseradish and sour cream until smooth.
6. Spoon the horseradish cream over the roast beef.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Top with remaining bread slices.
9. Optional: garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (or use leftover roast beef)
Greek Gyro Deli Sandwich with Tzatziki Sauce
Experience the flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious recipe. A classic gyro sandwich filled with juicy lamb or beef, crispy veggies, and creamy tzatziki sauce on a warm pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef
– 4-6 pita breads
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped tomato
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tzatziki sauce (see below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Form lamb or beef into thin patties, season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating in oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble sandwiches with grilled meat, chopped veggies, and tzatziki sauce.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Deli Sandwich with Smoked Tofu and Veggies
A satisfying vegan deli sandwich that combines the smoky flavor of tofu with crunchy veggies, all nestled between a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 block smoked tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup vegan mayo
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced in half
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. Brush the tofu with olive oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices.
4. Assemble the sandwich by spreading vegan mayo on each slice of bread, followed by a layer of crumbled tofu, sliced bell pepper, cucumber, and parsley.
5. Top with Dijon mustard and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuban Sandwich with Ham, Swiss, and Pickles
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this iconic sandwich, featuring juicy ham, melted Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and crispy bread. This beloved recipe is a staple in Cuban cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Cuban bread (or substitute with a crusty white bread)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 4 ounces thinly sliced ham
– 2 slices Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced dill pickles
– 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on the press or grill.
4. Top each with a slice of ham, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a few pickle slices.
5. Spread a small amount of yellow mustard on top of the pickles.
6. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Chicken Pesto Panini with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful panini featuring tender chicken, tangy pesto, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes. This satisfying sandwich is perfect for a quick bite or packed in a lunchbox.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and sliced
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on each bread slice.
3. Top with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Drizzle the top with olive oil.
5. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
BLT Deli Sandwich with Garlic Aioli
Elevate the humble BLT by adding a rich and creamy garlic aioli to take it to the next level. This sandwich is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of deli ham
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 4 lettuce leaves
– 8-10 slices of crispy cooked bacon
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or similar
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, garlic, and Dijon mustard.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the aioli on two slices of bread, followed by a slice of ham, a tomato slice, some lettuce, and finally a few strips of bacon.
4. Top with the remaining bread slice.
5. Cook the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Monte Cristo Sandwich with Raspberry Jam
Elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and savory twist on the classic Monte Cristo. The combination of crispy ham, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy raspberry jam is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of cooked ham
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup of raspberry jam
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a slice of ham, a slice of cheese, and a spoonful of raspberry jam.
5. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per sandwich
Summary
Get ready to elevate your lunch game with these 20 flavorful deli sandwich recipes! From classic combos like Reuben and Philly Cheesesteak, to international twists like Mediterranean Veggie and Greek Gyro, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Sandwiches are packed with meats, cheeses, veggies, and condiments, including bacon-wrapped turkey clubs, spicy Italian subs, and creamy egg salads. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a lighter bite, these recipes will satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative, and build your own ultimate deli sandwich!
