19 Sandwich Ideas That Go Beyond the Basics

Boring turkey sandwiches? Not anymore! These sandwich recipes are the ultimate mealtime hero – lunch, dinner, and everything in between. We have classic combinations and creative ideas that just might become your new favorite.

Mediterranean Meatball Pita Sandwiches

When you’re looking for an easy, nutritious, and delicious meal, this Mediterranean chicken pita sandwich is it! We’re using a smart kitchen shortcut (frozen chicken meatballs) to cut down on prep and adding in layers of fresh produce and bright flavor with a homemade tzatziki sauce and a simple Greek chopped salad. 

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Meatball Pita Sandwiches.

Mushroom Sandwich

Earthy mushrooms are sautéed to perfection and paired with melted cheese and fresh bread for a rich and satisfying vegetarian sandwich.

Get the Recipe: Mushroom Sandwich.

Best Chicken Salad

The best part of this rotisserie chicken salad recipe? The TEXTURE! Instead of big chunks of chicken and celery, everything is processed together into a pate-like texture that is absolutely perfect. It’s perfect scooped up in pita bread or stuffed in between two slices of good bread for a classic sandwich.

Get the Recipe: Best Chicken Salad.

Spicy Fish Sandwich with Jalapeño Coleslaw

Crispy, seasoned fish fillet meets a creamy, spicy jalapeño coleslaw for a bold, flavorful sandwich with a satisfying crunch.

Get the Recipe: Spicy Fish Sandwich with Jalapeño Coleslaw.

Tomato Mozzarella Panini

This tomato mozzarella panini recipe is an easy meal that comes together in less than 30 minutes, can easily be prepped ahead, and is loaded with classic Caprese flavors. Made with just 5 simple ingredients, this tomato mozzarella panini Starbucks copycat is a minimal meal with maximum flavor.

Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Panini.

Tuna Melt Sandwich

A tuna melt sandwich is a fusion of flavor and texture, perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner. This amazing sandwich combines the creamy, tangy taste of tuna salad with the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of melted cheese, served in between toasty, crispy bread. It’s a true comfort food classic that’s not only delicious, but also quick and easy to prepare. 

Get the Recipe: Tuna Melt Sandwich.

Turkey Pesto Panini

Love the Starbucks turkey pesto panini and wondering if you can make it even BETTER? Yes, you most definitely can. This turkey panini has major layers of flavor: melty provolone cheese, flavorful pesto, deli turkey, and roasted red peppers for a little punch.

Get the Recipe: Turkey Pesto Panini.

Smoked Brisket Sandwich with Homemade Pickled Red Onions

If hearty sandwiches are your thing, you won’t want to miss this smoked brisket sandwich with homemade pickled red onions. Succulent smoked brisket piled high on your favorite bread, topped with tangy pickled red onions that cut through the richness beautifully.

Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Sandwich with Homemade Pickled Red Onions.

Smoked Salmon Sandwich

Next time you need a slightly fancy, majorly delicious meal (served open-faced for a better bread-to-topping ratio) this smoked salmon sandwich with cucumber ribbons is IT! It may be easy, but it’ll definitely bring some fresh flavor to your lunch routine.

Get the Recipe: Smoked Salmon Sandwich.

Spicy Italian Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Move over boring chicken sandwiches, this grilled chicken sandwich recipe is layered with a variety of flavors and textures – a spicy Calabrian chili mayo, creamy fresh mozzarella cheese, smoky grilled juicy chicken, and bright and peppery arugula. We put them all together for an Italian-inspired sandwich that’s also easy to make.

Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Sandwich.

Rachel Sandwich

If you’re a fan of the classic Reuben but are in the mood for something a bit different, the Rachel Sandwich is a must-try. This delightful twist swaps out the traditional corned beef for juicy turkey and replaces sauerkraut with tangy coleslaw. Layered with Swiss cheese and Russian dressing between slices of rye bread, it’s grilled to golden perfection.

Get the Recipe: Rachel Sandwich.

Hummus Toast

Quick, easy, nutritious, and always delicious, hummus sandwiches served open-faced is an excellent lunch option. It’s less of a recipe and more a mega list of ideas and inspiration. Choose your favorite whole-grain bread for an extra protein and fiber boost.

Get the Recipe: Hummus Toast.

Chicken Parmesan Subs

Crispy, golden chicken cutlets are smothered in marinara sauce and melty cheese, then served in a toasted sub roll for the ultimate Italian-inspired sandwich.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan Subs.

Chicken Salad Sandwich with Chili Crisp

This recipe is a must-try if you love a little heat! The classic creamy chicken salad gets a bold upgrade with chili crisp, adding a spicy, crunchy twist. It’s the perfect mix of rich, tangy, and spicy—all packed into one incredible sandwich.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Salad Sandwich with Chili Crisp.

Sautéed Asparagus Tartine

This asparagus tartine is slightly fancy without the fuss, and ready in just 25 minutes. It’s best when you can get some locally-grown asparagus.

Get the Recipe: Sautéed Asparagus Tartine.

Chicken Philly Sandwiches

Craving the flavors of a Philly cheesesteak but looking for a lighter option? Chicken Philly sandwiches have got you covered. Tender slices of seasoned chicken are sautéed with bell peppers and onions, then smothered with melted provolone cheese. All of this goodness is piled into a soft hoagie roll, making it a delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors without the heaviness of beef.

Get the Recipe: Chicken Philly Sandwiches.

Muffaletta Sandwich

Originating from New Orleans, this sandwich is a flavorful beast. It starts with a round loaf of Italian bread, which is generously filled with layers of cured meats like salami and ham, provolone cheese, and a zesty olive salad that seeps into the bread. It’s hearty, tangy, and utterly satisfying sandwich that’s perfect for sharing, though you might not want to.

Get the Recipe: Muffaletta Sandwich.

Pimento Cheese Sandwich

If you’re all about creamy, cheesy goodness, you have to try this Southern classic! Tangy, slightly spicy pimento cheese is spread thick on your favorite bread, making for the ultimate comfort food sandwich. Simple, rich, and totally satisfying!

Get the Recipe: Pimento Cheese Sandwich.

Patty Melt Recipe

Juicy, seasoned beef patty, melty cheese, and caramelized onions are sandwiched between perfectly toasted bread for a diner-style classic that never disappoints.

Get the Recipe: Patty Melt Recipe.