Turkey Grinder Sandwich

This Turkey Grinder Sandwich is layered with sliced turkey, lettuce, tomato, cheddar cheese, and dressed in a zesty vinaigrette for a bite that’s layered with flavor. In about 15 minutes, you can have this classic deli-style sandwich ready to enjoy for lunch or dinner.

This Turkey Grinder Sandwich is a deli-style dream that takes just minutes to make. Forget running to the deli or local lunch spot for a sandwich bursting with flavor. It’s easy to make one right at home and so much more affordable too. I stack sliced turkey, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and banana peppers high on a crusty hoagie roll, and even add cheddar too. But the real secret to this sandwich? The homemade creamy Italian dressing. This is one you will want to make a big batch of and keep in the fridge for salads, spreads, and dipping all week long.

Toasted until melty and golden, it’s the kind of sandwich that hits every craving: salty, tangy, crunchy, and cheesy. The cheddar melts beautifully into the turkey, adding richness and a little surprise in every bite. It’s quick to throw together, but tastes like something you’d wait in line for at a neighborhood sandwich shop. Try some of my other favorite sandwiches like my Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich and my Turkey Melt with Provolone.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

• Deli-style sandwich in minutes at home. No need to run to get lunch, it’s easy to make this in your own kitchen and even pack for lunch to take to work!
• Customize to your liking. That’s the beauty of any sandwich, layer it with what you love.
• A salad dressing that can be used on so much more than just this sandwich. Keep it in the fridge to use as a dressing or spread, the options are endless.

Ingredients

Creamy Italian Dressing:

• Dijon mustard: Adds nice tang and helps to emulsify the dressing.
• Garlic: A flavor we all love.
• Pickled banana rings: Adds acidity and also a bit of spice.
• Parmesan cheese: Gives nice cheesiness in every bite.
• Red wine vinegar: Key to any Italian dressing for rich tang.
• Oregano: An herb that adds warm flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: Gives a kick of heat.

Grinder Sandwich:

• Iceberg lettuce: Tossed in the dressing for a crisp slaw.
• Sliced olives: Adds a punch of briny flavor.
• Avocado: Gives rich flavor and creamy texture.
• Turkey: The protein of choice, you could easily use chicken or roast beef too.
• Red onion: Adds nice fresh crunch and tang.
• Cheddar: The unexpected ingredient that melts beautifully to bind the sandwich together.
• Heirloom tomato: Make sure it’s ripe for juicy and sweet flavor.
• Sesame hoagie roll: The soft bun with a hint of nutty crunch, thanks to the sesame seeds.

How to Make a Turkey Grinder Sandwich

1. In a large bowl, combine all dressing ingredients. Add the iceberg, tomato, cherry peppers, and olives. Toss to combine and season to taste.

2. Slice roll and spread with mayo. Top with sliced turkey and cheese. Toast with the cheddar until melted.

3. Add avocado, red onion, and creamy lettuce mixture. Place the top bun Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Dress the iceberg slaw right before layering the sandwich. This is key for maximum, fresh crunch in each bite.
• Make the dressing ahead of time. Perfect to make lunch prep that much easier on a busy weekday.
• Customize the ingredients. Use your favorite proteins and cheeses. I combined the ingredients in so many different ways. For example you could use banana peppers instead of cherry peppers.

Storage

It’s best to eat this sandwich right away for the best flavor and textures. You can store each ingredient individually to make a fresh sandwich the next day.

FAQs

More Delicious Sandwich Recipes

• Grilled Cheese and Pickle Sandwich
• Sun-dried Tomato Grilled Cheese
• Mushroom Onion Melt
• Mini Italian Sandwiches