Bird Dog Sandwich Recipe

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, Dijon mustard and sweet pickle relish. Stir until smooth and evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning — you can add a pinch of salt or a little more relish if you like it sweeter.

Set aside the dill pickle slices on a plate so they are ready to assemble.

Split the hoagie roll lengthwise, leaving a hinge if you prefer, and scoop out a small amount of soft center if the roll is very thick — this prevents the sandwich from becoming too bulky.

Lightly brush inside cut surfaces of the roll with olive oil. Spread the softened butter thinly on the outside top of the roll to help achieve a light toasting color when heating.

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the roll cut-side down on the skillet for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly toasted and golden; press gently with a spatula. Remove and set aside.

Generously spread half of the mayonnaise-mustard-relish mixture on the bottom half of the toasted roll and the remaining half on the inside of the top half.

Layer the sliced smoked ham evenly over the bottom half of the roll so it covers the length of the bread.

Place the roast turkey slices on top of the ham, arranging them so they slightly overlap for even coverage.

Add chopped crispy bacon evenly over the turkey layer.

Top the meats with the cheddar cheese slices and Swiss cheese. If you prefer the cheese melted, place the open sandwich (without top yet) under a broiler for 30–60 seconds or cover the skillet and warm for 1–2 minutes until cheese softens — watch closely to avoid burning.

Arrange the tomato slices over the cheese, then add the lettuce leaves. Season tomato lightly with the kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Place the dill pickle slices over the lettuce (or on the top half of the roll if you prefer them separate).

Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll. Press down gently to compact the layers and, if desired, cut the sandwich in half diagonally for easier handling.

If you prefer a warm finished sandwich, return the whole assembled sandwich to the skillet over low heat for 1–2 minutes per side, pressing gently, until heated through and the outside is crisped to your liking.

Slice and serve immediately. Offer extra pickle slices and any leftover spread on the side.