Club Sandwich Recipe

Assemble Club Sandwiches

1. 1

   Prepare bacon

   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium. If using oven: arrange bacon in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake 12–18 minutes until crisp; drain on paper towels. If using skillet: cook in batches until crisp, 8–12 minutes, turning as needed. When cooled, drain excess fat and keep warm.

2. 2

   Toast bread (optional)

   Lightly butter one side of each bread slice if desired. Toast bread on a skillet or in a toaster oven until golden and just crisp, about 2–3 minutes per side on skillet or 3–5 minutes in toaster oven. Place toasted slices on a clean board, buttered side down if using butter.

3. 3

   Prepare tomato and seasonings

   Slice tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (reserve remaining salt and pepper for tomatoes). Taste and adjust seasoning. Lightly season tomato slices with the remaining salt and pepper.

4. 4

   Lay out components

   Arrange the toasted bread in four groups of three slices each (bottom, middle, top). On each bottom slice spread about 1 tablespoon of seasoned mayo.

5. 5

   First layer assembly

   On the mayo-spread bottom slice, place 2 ounces (about 2 slices) smoked turkey evenly. Add one slice of cheddar cheese and 2 lettuce leaves. Spread a thin layer (about 1/2 tablespoon) of mayo on the top side of the middle slice of bread and place it mayo-side down on the first layer to create a double-decker sandwich base.

6. 6

   Second layer assembly

   Spread about 1 tablespoon mayo on the exposed top of the middle slice. Add 2 ounces (about 2 slices) of ham, 2 slices of tomato (or enough to cover), and 3 bacon strips (cut in half if they overhang). Add remaining lettuce if desired. Top with the final slice of toasted bread, mayo side down.

7. 7

   Finish and secure

   Press the sandwich gently to compact layers. Insert two toothpicks vertically through each sandwich to hold layers. Using a sharp chef's knife, trim off crusts if desired and cut each sandwich diagonally into quarters (cut twice to make 4 triangular quarters). Wipe the knife between cuts for clean edges.

8. 8

   Pack for boxed lunches

   Place 3 sandwich quarters (or all 4 if desired) in a box lined with parchment. Add any sides (chips, pickle, fruit). Keep refrigerated until served. If preparing ahead, wrap sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap to maintain structure and prevent drying; assemble no more than 6–8 hours ahead for best texture.