Turkey Club Recipe

Prepare bacon

Cook 3 strips of bacon until crisp. You can pan-fry over medium heat (about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally) or bake at 400°F (200°C) on a rimmed sheet for 12–18 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool; when cool, break in half if desired to fit the hoagie.

Prep vegetables and turkey

Wash and dry lettuce leaves (about 1 cup). Slice tomato into three even slices. Season tomato slices lightly with 1/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper. If using avocado, slice now.

Toast and butter hoagie

Slice the hoagie roll lengthwise, keeping one side attached if you prefer a hinge. Spread 1 tablespoon unsalted butter evenly on the outside cut faces of the top and bottom. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the roll cut-side down and lightly toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Flip and toast the outside of the roll briefly (30–45 seconds) so the butter gets warm and slightly crisp.

Assemble sandwich

Flip the roll cut-side up. Spread 2 tablespoons mayonnaise on the inside of one half (and 1 teaspoon mustard if using on the other half). Layer the ingredients in this order for stability: bottom half — 3 oz (about half) of sliced turkey arranged evenly, 1 slice American cheese, tomato slices, bacon (3 strips broken as needed), lettuce leaves, remaining 3 oz turkey, 1 slice Swiss cheese. If using pickles or avocado, add them on top of the lettuce or tomatoes. Close the sandwich and press gently to compact.

Warm to melt cheeses (optional)

If you prefer the cheeses slightly melted, return the assembled sandwich to the skillet, cover the pan with a lid, and heat on low for 1–2 minutes until cheese softens (do not over-press or the bread will become soggy). Alternatively, place sandwich briefly under a broiler for 30–60 seconds, watching closely.

Finish and serve

Transfer the sandwich to a cutting board and slice in half on the diagonal. Serve immediately while warm. Offer pickle slices and extra mayo or mustard on the side if desired.

Add dill pickle slices inside the sandwich with the tomato for a tangy crunch, or serve alongside. Add avocado slices between turkey layers for creaminess. Spread mustard thinly on one side of the roll if using (about 1 tsp).