The humble deli sandwich – a staple of lunchtime menus everywhere. But why settle for just any old combination of meats and cheeses when you can create a culinary masterpiece? From classic combinations to innovative twists, we’ve got 20 flavorful deli sandwich recipes that are sure to satisfy every craving.
Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, our collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making homemade Russian dressing to elevate your Reuben game, or swap out traditional mayo for spicy mustard on a pastrami-on-rye sandwich. With options ranging from classic club sandwiches to international-inspired wraps, you’re sure to find the perfect combination to fuel your day.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these 20 delicious deli sandwich recipes, exploring the ingredients, techniques, and presentation tips that will take them from ordinary to extraordinary. So go ahead, get creative, and start building your ultimate deli sandwich repertoire!
Classic Reuben Sandwich with Homemade Russian Dressing
This iconic sandwich combines the savory flavors of corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese on rye bread, elevated by a tangy homemade Russian dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 1/2 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup sauerkraut, drained
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
– Homemade Russian Dressing (recipe below)
Homemade Russian Dressing:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading Russian dressing on the unbuttered side of two slices, then topping with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
4. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Club with Crispy Bacon
This classic club sandwich gets a boost from crispy bacon and fresh avocado, making it the perfect combination of textures and flavors. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying lunch or dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 4 oz turkey breast, sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 6 slices of crispy bacon
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 2 tomato slices
– Mayonnaise or spread (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a pan until crispy, then set aside.
2. Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise on one slice of bread, then layering with turkey, avocado, lettuce, and tomato.
3. Top with another slice of bread and add 2-3 slices of crispy bacon on top.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Italian Sub with Salami, Ham, and Provolone
This classic Italian sub sandwich is packed with flavorful salami, savory ham, and melted provolone cheese. A perfect combination of textures and tastes that will satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients:
– 1 crusty sub roll
– 6 slices of salami
– 4 slices of ham
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 slices of provolone cheese
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the salami and ham into thin strips.
3. Brush both sides of the sub roll with olive oil and toast for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the sandwich by spreading garlic on the toasted bread, then adding the salami, ham, provolone cheese, and lettuce and tomato (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap with Parmesan Crisps
Elevate your wrap game with this flavorful and satisfying Grilled Chicken Caesar Wrap, topped with crispy Parmesan Crisps. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup romaine lettuce
– 1/4 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp lemon zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breast.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the wrap by spreading Caesar dressing on one half of the tortilla. Add romaine lettuce on top of the dressing.
5. Slice the grilled chicken into strips and place on top of the lettuce.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
7. Fold the other half of the tortilla to create a wrap.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pastrami on Rye with Spicy Mustard and Pickles
Elevate your deli game with this timeless combination of thinly sliced pastrami, crispy rye bread, spicy mustard, and tangy pickles.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons of spicy mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– 2 cups of thinly sliced pastrami
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced dill pickles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the rye bread into 1-inch thick slabs.
3. Spread a layer of spicy mustard on each slice of rye bread.
4. Layer 2-3 slices of pastrami on top of the mustard.
5. Add a few pickle slices on top of the pastrami.
6. Assemble the sandwich and cook in the panini press or grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the filling is warm.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak with Caramelized Onions and Peppers
A twist on the iconic Philly cheesesteak, this recipe adds sweet and savory caramelized onions and peppers to elevate the classic sandwich. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 slices of cheese (such as cheddar, provolone, or American)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the onions over low heat, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 30 minutes).
3. Add bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, grill the steak to desired doneness (about 3-5 minutes per side for medium-rare).
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing cooked steak on hoagie rolls, topping with caramelized onions and peppers, and finishing with cheese.
6. Cook for an additional minute under broiler or in oven until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Tuna Salad Sandwich with Celery and Dill
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this tuna salad sandwich is a quick and easy lunch or snack option.
Ingredients:
• 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
• 2 stalks of celery (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, celery, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped dill.
2. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place one slice of bread on a flat surface.
5. Spoon the tuna salad mixture onto the bread.
6. Top with the second slice of bread.
7. Cut in half, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes
Caprese Panini with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil Pesto
Transform the classic Italian caprese salad into a delicious sandwich with this simple recipe. Fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, and juicy tomatoes come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably baguette or ciabatta)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup basil pesto
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread a layer of basil pesto on each bread slice.
3. Top with a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese.
4. Add a few slices of tomato on top of the mozzarella.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Roast Beef and Cheddar with Horseradish Mayo
This recipe brings together the tender flavors of roast beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a tangy kick from horseradish mayo. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for your favorite greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roast beef (thinly sliced)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 slices white bread
– 2 slices cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup horseradish mayonnaise
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each slice of white bread.
3. Place one slice of bread, buttered side down, in the press or on the grill.
4. Top with sliced roast beef, cheese, and a dollop of horseradish mayonnaise.
5. Place the second slice of bread, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until bread is toasted and cheese is melted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Egg Salad Sandwich with Chives and Smoked Paprika
This classic egg salad gets a flavorful boost from the addition of chives and smoked paprika, making it a perfect twist on a breakfast or lunch favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chopped eggs, mayonnaise, chives, and smoked paprika.
2. Mix until well combined, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Butter two slices of bread on the outside.
4. Spoon egg salad onto one slice of bread.
5. Top with remaining bread slice.
6. Cut in half or quarter, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Blue Cheese Slaw
Get ready for a flavorful combination of spicy chicken, crunchy slaw, and melted blue cheese on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 4 hamburger buns
– 8 oz blue cheese crumbles
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and ranch dressing. Toss until coated.
3. Divide the mixture onto four hamburger buns.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix shredded cabbage with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. Top each sandwich with blue cheese crumbles and a spoonful of slaw.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Grilled Veggie Sandwich with Hummus and Feta
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and healthy sandwich! Fresh vegetables, creamy hummus, and tangy feta come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 red onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the vegetables for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
4. Spread hummus on one slice of bread.
5. Top with grilled vegetables, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
6. Place the second slice of bread on top to assemble the sandwich.
7. Serve immediately and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich with Tangy Coleslaw
Get ready to savor a classic Southern comfort food with tender pulled pork, tangy coleslaw, and soft buns. This mouthwatering sandwich is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 8 hamburger buns
– Tangy Coleslaw (recipe below)
– Optional: pickles, onions, and jalapeños
Tangy Coleslaw Recipe:
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Place the pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker.
4. Cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with BBQ sauce.
6. Split hamburger buns and toast.
7. Assemble sandwiches by spooning pulled pork onto the buns, followed by a dollop of Tangy Coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Chicken Pesto Sandwich with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful combination of chicken, pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or baguette work well)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, olive oil, garlic, 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. Assemble sandwiches by spreading pesto on bread, topping with grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of salt.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
BLT with Heirloom Tomatoes and Garlic Aioli
Elevate the classic sandwich by combining the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes with the richness of garlic aioli. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (toasted)
– 6-8 slices of bacon, cooked crispy
– 2 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat toaster or oven to toast the bread.
2. Cook bacon until crispy; set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together garlic and mayonnaise to make the aioli.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading aioli on each slice of toasted bread, followed by a few slices of tomato, 2-3 pieces of bacon, and some fresh lettuce (if using).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Monte Cristo Sandwich with Raspberry Jam
Elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and savory twist on the classic Monte Cristo. This indulgent treat combines the richness of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese with the tanginess of raspberry jam.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or Challah)
– 2 oz ham
– 2 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1/4 cup grated Swiss cheese
– 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1-2 tbsp raspberry jam
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese.
5. Spread 1-2 tbsp of raspberry jam on top of the cheese.
6. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
9. Dust with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Chicken Salad Croissant with Grapes and Almonds
Elevate your lunch game with this sweet and savory combination of juicy chicken, crunchy almonds, and luscious grapes wrapped in a flaky croissant.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup seedless red grapes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package croissant dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together chicken, grapes, almonds, mustard, mayonnaise, and parsley until well combined.
3. Roll out the croissant dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ham and Swiss Cheese Melt with Dijon Mustard
Elevate your lunch or dinner game with this simple yet satisfying sandwich recipe. A harmonious blend of salty ham, creamy Swiss cheese, and tangy Dijon mustard will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup of thinly sliced cooked ham
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with ham, Swiss cheese, and a dollop of Dijon mustard.
5. Place another bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Mediterranean Falafel Wrap with Tahini Sauce
A flavorful and nutritious wrap filled with crispy falafel, crunchy veggies, and creamy tahini sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, pickled turnips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix chickpeas, flour, parsley, scallions, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Shape into patties and bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wrap with falafel, lettuce, tomato, cucumber, red onion, and pickled turnips (if using).
6. Drizzle with Tahini Sauce (recipe below) and serve.
Tahini Sauce:
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Hoagie with Provolone
A flavorful twist on the classic Italian hoagie, this spicy sausage and pepper combination is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 crusty hoagie rolls
– 8 slices Provolone cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add peppers and garlic; cook until peppers are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Split hoagie rolls in half lengthwise.
5. Divide cooked sausage mixture among rolls, then top with Provolone cheese.
6. Place on baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your lunch game with these 20 flavorful deli sandwich recipes! From classic combinations like Reuben and Philly cheesesteak, to international twists like Mediterranean falafel wrap and Italian sub, there’s something for every craving. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or fresh and herby, these sandwiches are sure to satisfy. With a range of fillings, cheeses, and condiments to choose from, you’ll never get bored with your lunch again. So go ahead, get creative, and build your perfect sandwich!
