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Home » Recipe Collections

27 sandwiches make store-bought feel like a downgrade

Published: Jan 8, 2026 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Some foods don’t just satisfy a craving — they raise your standards. The kind of meal that makes everything else feel ordinary by comparison. These bold, flavor-packed favorites are the ones that turn a simple lunch into something unforgettable, leaving you wondering why you ever settled for anything less.

Kimchi Grilled Cheese

An image of a sliced kimchi grilled cheese sandwich resting on the other slice.
Kimchi Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

In this kimchi grilled cheese, the tangy kimchi pairs with creamy mozzarella and cheddar, all sandwiched between golden-browned sourdough slices. It’s a bold and satisfying choice, ready in just 20 minutes, for those looking to add something exciting to their sandwich routine.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Grilled Cheese

Pimento Cheese Sandwich

An image of pimento cheese sandwiches.
Pimento Cheese Sandwich. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

A creamy, smoky pimento cheese sandwich that’s ready in just 5 minutes. This quick recipe is a go-to for busy days when you need a flavorful and easy-to-make lunch that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Get the Recipe: Pimento Cheese Sandwich

Eggplant Grilled Cheese

Four eggplants grilled cheese with Yemenite green hot sauce on a wooden board.
Eggplant Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

This Middle Eastern grilled cheese is filled with Jarlsberg cheese, grilled eggplant, cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of Yemenite green hot sauce and tahini. It’s a flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese that brings a new layer of taste to your sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Grilled Cheese

Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Air fryer chicken pesto sandwich on a white plate.
Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Thriving In Parenting.

Skip the soggy store-bought sandwiches and make your own crispy air fryer pesto chicken sandwich. This option is quick and easy, offering a satisfying lunch without the disappointment of pre-made options.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Israeli Sabich Sandwich

Two Israeli Sabich Sandwiches on a plate.
Israeli Sabich Sandwich. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

The sabich sandwich is an Israeli creation combining fried eggplant, potatoes, hard-boiled egg, pickles, tahini sauce, and spices. This veggie-packed sandwich is full of vibrant flavors, making it a great choice for a unique meal.
Get the Recipe: Israeli Sabich Sandwich

Curried Egg Salad Sandwich

A plate of Curried Egg Salad Sandwich.
Curried Egg Salad Sandwich . Photo credit: Easy Indian Cooking.

A curried egg sandwich blends creamy mayo, curry powder, and hard-boiled eggs for a flavorful take on the classic egg salad sandwich. It’s a great choice for those looking for a spiced-up version of this classic meal.
Get the Recipe: Curried Egg Salad Sandwich

Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich

Air fryer chicken sandwich on a plate with fries.
Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Get the Chick-fil-A experience right at home with this air fryer chicken sandwich recipe. Super crispy and easy to make, it’s a satisfying sandwich that rivals the original, making it perfect for a quick, homemade treat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Sandwich

Bombay Sandwiches

Bombay Sandwiches layered with potato, tomato, cucumbers, and an herb chutney sauce.
Bombay Sandwiches. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

The Bombay sandwich features a mix of cooked and raw vegetables layered on buttered white bread and slathered with chutney. This vegetarian sandwich is full of fresh flavors and a great choice for a light, healthy meal.
Get the Recipe: Bombay Sandwiches

Muffaletta Sandwich

An image of Muffaletta Sandwich on a wooden board.
Muffaletta Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

The muffaletta sandwich is packed with olive spread, deli meats, and cheese, offering a classic New Orleans flavor that’s easy to make at home. This hearty sandwich is a must-try for anyone who loves bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Muffaletta Sandwich

Turkey Avocado Sandwich

A turkey avocado sandwich sits in the background.
Turkey Avocado Sandwich. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

A turkey sandwich with crispy toasted bread, bacon, gooey cheese, rich avocado, and tangy chipotle sauce. It’s a well-rounded, flavorful sandwich that makes for a satisfying lunch.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Avocado Sandwich

Hot Turkey Sandwich

Front view image of canadian hot turkey sandwich in a white plate garnished with green peas.
Hot Turkey Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A Canadian hot turkey sandwich is smothered with rich gravy and topped with green peas, offering a hearty and flavorful meal. It’s the perfect sandwich for a cozy lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hot Turkey Sandwich

BLTC Sandwich

BLTC Sandwiches on a wooden plate.
BLTC Sandwich. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This BLTC sandwich uses heirloom tomatoes and fresh basil, adding a seasonal twist to the classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to enjoy a fresh, flavorful sandwich with a hint of summer.
Get the Recipe: BLTC Sandwich

Chicken Philly Sandwiches

Four Chicken Philly Sandwiches on a plate.
Chicken Philly Sandwiches. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Chicken Philly sandwiches are a flavorful twist on the classic Philly cheesesteak, using tender chicken as the main ingredient. This creative take on a classic favorite makes for a delicious, satisfying sandwich.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Philly Sandwiches

Turkey Avocado Club Sandwich

Two slices of turkey avocado club sandwich on a plate.
Turkey Avocado Club Sandwich. Photo credit: Renee Nicole's Kitchen.

Turkey, bacon, gouda, avocado, and spicy sweet sriracha sauce layered on toasty seared sourdough bread create a sandwich that’s both flavorful and filling. This turkey avocado club sandwich is a fantastic choice for a quick, well-balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Avocado Club Sandwich

Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich

Southwest ranch chicken salad sandwich on pumpernickel.
Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This ranch chicken salad cheddar melt on pumpernickel bread is infused with southwestern flavors and loaded with melted cheese. It’s a hearty and mouthwatering sandwich that’s sure to satisfy any hunger.
Get the Recipe: Southwest Ranch Chicken Salad Sandwich

Easy Air Fryer Katsu Chicken Sandwich

Easy Air Fryer Katsu Chicken Sandwich on a white plate with bbq sauce.
Easy Air Fryer Katsu Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: Chicken Air Fryer Recipes.

This Air Fryer Katsu Chicken Sandwich is a delicious, crispy alternative to traditional sandwiches. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful twist on a classic Japanese dish, perfect for a quick meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Air Fryer Katsu Chicken Sandwich

Roast Beef Smoked Gouda Grilled Cheese

Smoked gouda roast beef grilled cheese cut in half and stacked.
Roast Beef Smoked Gouda Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A roast beef and smoked gouda grilled cheese is a classic choice that pairs perfectly with a hot bowl of soup. This sandwich offers a savory, satisfying meal, making it an easy go-to for a cozy lunch.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Smoked Gouda Grilled Cheese

Chopped Italian Sandwich

Chopped Italian Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A chopped Italian sandwich brings together savory cured meats, provolone, and pepperoncini, all served in Italian sub rolls. It’s a flavorful, satisfying sandwich that’s easy to prepare and perfect for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Italian Sandwich

Tri Tip Sandwich

A tri tip sandwich on a plate.
Tri Tip Sandwich. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This tri tip sandwich is quick and easy to make, offering a flavorful way to enjoy a satisfying meal. Perfect for anyone looking for a no-fuss, delicious sandwich option.
Get the Recipe: Tri Tip Sandwich

Thanksgiving Leftovers Sandwich

An image of Thanksgiving Leftovers Sandwich.
Thanksgiving Leftovers Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a turkey sandwich packed with all the delicious holiday flavors. This warm, hearty sandwich is perfect for repurposing your leftovers into a satisfying lunch.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Leftovers Sandwich

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Three pieces of italian chicken pesto sandwich on a dish.
Pork Tenderloin Sandwich. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

A crispy, golden-brown pork tenderloin served on a soft bun makes the Fried Pork Tenderloin Sandwich a hearty choice. It’s a flavorful, filling meal that’s sure to satisfy your sandwich cravings.
Get the Recipe: Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Italian Sandwich Sliders

Italian Sandwich Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Italian sliders combine deli meats, melted cheese, and buttery-soft rolls, baked until golden. These quick-to-assemble sliders are packed with flavor and perfect for sharing or a quick meal.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sandwich Sliders

The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich

The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A fried chicken sandwich features a perfectly seasoned, crispy coating and mouthwatering toppings. It’s a flavorful, satisfying sandwich that’s sure to hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: The Best Fried Chicken Sandwich

Roasted Sweet Potato Apple Ham Sandwich

Roasted Sweet Potato Apple Ham Sandwich. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A roasted sweet potato apple ham sandwich is pressed with melted cheddar cheese and a honey mustard spread for a mix of savory and sweet. This sandwich offers a unique combination of flavors that makes for a truly enjoyable meal.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato Apple Ham Sandwich

Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich

Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A homemade rotisserie chicken salad sandwich is creamy and comforting, served on soft bread for an easy yet fulfilling meal. This simple sandwich is perfect for a relaxed lunch or a quick bite.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Salad Sandwich

Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Air Fryer Tuna Melt. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

This air fryer tuna melt brings together the classic tuna sandwich and grilled cheese, all in one. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for those who want a quick and comforting sandwich with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Tuna Melt

Italian Chicken Pesto Sandwich

Italian Chicken Pesto Sandwich. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

An Italian chicken pesto sandwich combines juicy grilled chicken with creamy pesto sauce and fresh mozzarella. This bistro-inspired sandwich is perfect for a flavorful, easy lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Pesto Sandwich

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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