Turkey Sandwich Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4 people

What You’ll Need

For the sandwich base:

• 8 slices fresh bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or your favorite)
• 1 pound sliced turkey breast (deli-sliced preferred)
• 8 slices Swiss or provolone cheese
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened (optional)

For the fresh elements:

• 1 large tomato, sliced thick
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 leaves crisp lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced (optional)
• 4 dill pickle spears
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For extra flavor:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Pinch of salt and pepper

Choosing the Perfect Turkey

Select high-quality deli turkey that’s been sliced to medium thickness – not so thin that it falls apart, but not so thick that it overwhelms the other ingredients. Fresh turkey from the deli counter always tastes better than pre-packaged options and has better texture.

Preparing the Bread Foundation

Choose fresh, quality bread with good structure that won’t get soggy under the weight of the ingredients. If you prefer, lightly butter one side of each bread slice for extra richness and to create a moisture barrier.

Creating the Perfect Spread

In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. This combination gives you the creaminess of mayo with the tangy bite of mustard, creating a spread that enhances rather than masks the turkey flavor.

Preparing the Vegetables

Slice the tomato into thick slices, about 1/4 inch thick, and lay them on paper towels. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let them sit for a few minutes to draw out excess moisture, which prevents soggy sandwiches.

Adding Flavor to the Tomatoes

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Drizzle this mixture lightly over the tomato slices for extra flavor that complements the turkey beautifully.

Slicing the Aromatics

Slice the red onion as thinly as possible – paper-thin slices provide flavor without overwhelming crunch. If you find raw onion too strong, soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes, then pat dry before using.

Building the Base Layer

Spread the mayonnaise-mustard mixture on one side of each bread slice. This creates a flavorful foundation and helps prevent the bread from getting soggy from the other ingredients.

Layering the Turkey

Arrange the turkey slices on four of the prepared bread slices, folding or overlapping them slightly to create height and ensure every bite has plenty of protein. Don’t just lay them flat – gentle folds create better texture and visual appeal.

Adding the Cheese

Place the cheese slices over the turkey, making sure to cover most of the meat. Swiss cheese adds nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with turkey, while provolone offers a slightly sharper taste that some prefer.

Building the Vegetable Layers

Add the seasoned tomato slices, followed by the thin red onion slices. The tomatoes provide juiciness and acidity that brightens the whole sandwich, while the onions add a sharp bite that cuts through the rich turkey and cheese.

The Lettuce Layer

Top with crisp lettuce leaves, which add essential crunch and freshness. Choose leaves that are large enough to cover the filling but not so big that they dominate the sandwich structure.

Optional Avocado Addition

If using avocado, add thin slices just before serving to prevent browning. The creamy avocado adds richness and healthy fats that make the sandwich even more satisfying and nutritious.

The Final Assembly

Top each sandwich with the remaining bread slices, pressing gently to help everything stay together. The sandwich should be substantial but not so tall that it’s impossible to bite into comfortably.

Perfect Cutting Technique

Using a sharp knife, cut each sandwich diagonally to create two triangular halves. This classic cut makes the sandwich easier to handle and shows off all the beautiful layers of ingredients.

Serving Style

Arrange the sandwich halves on plates with the cut side facing up to showcase the colorful layers. Add a dill pickle spear alongside each sandwich for that classic deli experience and palate-cleansing crunch.

Classic Accompaniments

Serve with kettle-cooked potato chips, coleslaw, or a simple side salad for a complete meal. The salty crunch of chips provides perfect contrast to the tender sandwich ingredients.

Make-Ahead Tips

While best assembled fresh, you can prep the vegetables and spread mixture ahead of time. Store the seasoned tomatoes separately and assemble just before serving to maintain optimal texture.

Storage and Transport

If packing for lunch, wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or foil to keep everything in place. Include the pickle on the side to prevent the sandwich from getting soggy during transport.

Customization Options

Try different cheeses like aged cheddar or pepper jack for variety. Add bacon for extra indulgence, or substitute different vegetables like cucumber or sprouts for different textures and flavors.

Leftover Turkey Solutions

This recipe is perfect for using up leftover roasted turkey from holidays. Simply slice the leftover turkey thinly and use it the same way you would deli turkey for equally delicious results.

This Turkey Sandwich proves that the best meals often come from perfect execution of simple classics. With quality ingredients and careful attention to layering and seasoning, you can create a sandwich that rivals any deli while enjoying the satisfaction of making it exactly to your taste at home.