Easy Turkey Club Sandwich

Ah, the turkey club sandwich—a classic that never fails to delight. I remember when my mom would whip one up for me after school, layering turkey, bacon, and just the right amount of mayo between thick slices of bread. Each bite was a perfect balance of flavors, and it felt like a warm hug on a plate. Today, I’m excited to share my take on this timeless favorite, a recipe that’s become a staple in my home. It's simple, satisfying, and always a hit whether it's a casual lunch or a laid-back dinner.

Why you'll love this recipe

This Easy Turkey Club Sandwich is something you’ll return to again and again. Not only does it bring together the hearty crunch of bacon and the creaminess of avocado, but the sun-dried tomato mayonnaise? Oh, it’s like the cherry on top that elevates everything to gourmet levels—which is a fancy way of saying it's truly spectacular. Imagine biting into perfectly toasted sourdough, reveling in layers of tender turkey, crispy bacon, and fresh lettuce. You’ve got all the makings of a delicious, well-rounded meal in your hands!

This recipe is versatile, too. It fits into busy weekdays or can be dressed up for weekends and gatherings. Plus, it’s effortlessly customizable—want to swap the turkey for grilled chicken, or perhaps add some pepper jack cheese for a kick? Go for it! The beauty lies in how this recipe evolves with your taste buds.

Gather these ingredients

Let’s make magic with these simple, yet vibrant ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise: This will be the luscious base for our sun-dried tomato mayo. You can always use a light version if you’re watching your calories.
• 2 ounces sun-dried tomatoes: Make sure they’re well-drained! They add a delightful burst of flavor. If you can’t find dried, the jarred ones work beautifully too.
• 2 cloves garlic: Smash ‘em up for a garlicky punch. No need to hold back! You know I love to live on the wild side with garlic.
• 4 slices sourdough bread: That slight tang from sourdough pairs perfectly with all the savory ingredients. If you’re feeling adventurous, a hearty multigrain bread can add a nice texture.
• 6 slices turkey deli meat: Go for the good stuff—smoked or herbed turkey can really make a difference! Not a turkey fan? Roast beef or chicken would be equally delightful.
• 6 slices bacon: Crisped to perfection, of course! If you’re looking for something lighter, turkey bacon is an option, though it won’t have the same crunch.
• 1 avocado: For that creamy goodness! You can also swap it out for sliced cucumbers if you're in the mood for a refreshingly light alternative.
• 4 leaves romaine lettuce: You’ll want the crunch! Iceberg works too, but romaine’s a bit sturdier, holding up beautifully against the saucy elements.

The cooking process explained

Now, let’s dive into the fun part. Making this sandwich is just as satisfying as eating it!

1. Mix that Sun-Dried Tomato Mayonnaise: In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Give it a good stir until it’s all mingled together. Taste and adjust the garlic to your liking—it’s your world!

2. Toast the Bread: Lightly toast your sourdough until it’s golden. This is crucial, my friend—it adds crunch and prevents sogginess.

3. Layer it Up: Spread a generous amount of that sun-dried tomato mayo on two slices of the toasted bread. Start layering: first, the turkey, then the bacon, followed by the avocado slices and a sprinkle of salt. Don’t forget the crisp lettuce! Top each mound with another slice of bread smeared with more mayo.

4. Assemble and Slice: Grab your trusty chef’s knife and slice the sandwiches in half. Voilà, your fancy turkey club is ready!

Best way to enjoy it

Serve these beauties with a side of homemade sweet potato fries, or maybe a fresh green salad. Feeling extra indulgent? You can never go wrong with a side of crispy chips. Pair it with a bright lemonade to cut through the richness, or perhaps a chilled glass of iced tea for a more comforting vibe.

How to store and freeze

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare, I know!), you can wrap those sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep them in the fridge for up to two days. Just be cautious with the lettuce and tomato; they can turn watery as they sit. If you plan on storing them longer, try freezing the components separately—remember, bread will get a bit mushy after defrosting, but everything else stays nice and tasty!

Pro chef tips

1. *Mix & Match: Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you love. Not into turkey? Go for a roast beef club instead. Want a vegetarian spin? Load it up with grilled veggies and perhaps some feta cheese!

2. *Don’t Skip the Toasting: I can't stress enough how toasting the bread elevates the whole experience. It’s the pastry chef in me talking!

3. *Extra Flavor: If you’re feeling bold, consider sprinkling a little smoked paprika on the turkey for added depth.

Creative Twists

This recipe is a canvas for your culinary creativity! Try using pesto instead of the sun-dried tomato mayo for a burst of herby goodness. Swap the avocado with slices of fresh mozzarella for a rich twist, or even experiment with different types of greens—arugula, anyone? Want more texture? Slap on some pickles or banana peppers for that vinegary zing.

Ingredients list

• ½ cup mayonnaise (divided)
• 2 ounces sun-dried tomatoes (drained)
• 2 cloves garlic (or more to taste)
• 4 slices sourdough bread (or your favorite bread or use a wrap/tortilla)
• 6 slices turkey deli meat (divided)
• 6 slices bacon (cooked)
• 1 avocado (divided)
• 4 leaves romaine lettuce (divided)

Directions to follow

1. Mix the mayonnaise, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic in a bowl.
2. Toast the sourdough bread until golden.
3. Spread the sun-dried tomato mayo on two toasted slices.
4. Layer turkey, bacon, avocado, and lettuce on top, adding salt to taste.
5. Top with another slice of bread, mayo side down.
6. Slice in half and serve!

Common questions

1. Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! Roast beef, chicken, or even ham work wonderfully here.
2. How do I prevent sogginess? Toasting the bread and serving immediately helps maintain that luscious crunch.
3. Can I make it ahead of time? You can prepare the mayo and chop your ingredients in advance for quick assembly later.
4. Is it customizable for dietary restrictions? Yes! Swap turkey for tofu, and use vegan mayo if you're looking for a plant-based option.
5. What's the prep time? It should take around 15 minutes from start to finish—easy peasy!

This turkey club sandwich is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and an invitation to be creative. Give it a go! Try out different ingredients, scrapbook your own favorites, and share your triumphs (or misadventures!) with me in the comments. Here’s to making memorable meals and keeping our kitchens filled with warmth and laughter! Happy cooking!