20 Decadent Gourmet Sandwich Recipes for Foodies

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Are you ready to take your lunch game to the next level? Look no further than these 20 decadent gourmet sandwich recipes that are sure to impress even the most discerning palates. From classic combinations like truffle butter grilled cheese with caramelized onions to more adventurous options like lobster roll with lemon aioli and fresh herbs, we’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re a foodie looking for new inspiration or just a sandwich lover seeking to elevate your lunch routine, these recipes are sure to satisfy. With ingredients ranging from prosciutto and fig jam to chipotle mayo and blue cheese slaw, you’ll find the perfect combination to suit your taste buds. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in these delicious gourmet sandwiches that will leave you feeling like royalty.

Truffle Butter Grilled Cheese with Caramelized Onions

Elevate your grilled cheese game with the rich flavors of truffle butter and sweet, caramelized onions. This decadent sandwich is perfect for a special treat or a gourmet lunch.

Ingredients:

– 2 slices of artisanal bread
– 1 tablespoon truffle butter, softened
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions (see note)
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice with the truffle butter.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with caramelized onions, melted cheddar cheese, and another bread slice (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.

Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes

Note: To caramelize onions, heat 1/4 cup of oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1 large onion, thinly sliced, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until dark golden brown and caramelized.

Lobster Roll with Lemon Aioli and Fresh Herbs

Experience the quintessential coastal delight with this succulent lobster roll recipe. A generous helping of tender lobster meat, brightened by a zesty lemon aioli and fragrant fresh herbs, all nestled within a toasted, buttery bun.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb lobster meat
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 4 soft, split-top buns
– Lemon Aioli:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
+ 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Fresh Herbs:
+ Chopped parsley and chives (to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter the inside of each bun half with softened butter.
3. Divide the lobster meat among the buns, placing it on one half of each.
4. Top the lobster with Lemon Aioli and chopped fresh herbs.
5. Assemble the rolls by placing the other bun half on top.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (grilling time)

Beef Tenderloin Sandwich with Horseradish Cream

Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food – a juicy beef tenderloin sandwich slathered with creamy horseradish goodness. This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

– 1 (1-2 pound) beef tenderloin
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Horseradish cream (see below)
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, pickles, and any other toppings you desire!

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the tenderloin with salt, pepper, garlic, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Roast the tenderloin for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Let the beef rest before slicing it thinly against the grain.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading horseradish cream on each bun, followed by a few slices of tenderloin and your choice of toppings.

Horseradish Cream:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Brie and Fig Jam Panini with Prosciutto

Elevate your panini game with this sweet and savory combination: Brie and Fig Jam Panini with Prosciutto.

Ingredients:

– 1 wheel of Brie cheese, softened
– 2 tbsp fig jam
– 4 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 4 slices of baguette
– Fresh arugula leaves (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread 1 tbsp of fig jam on each slice of baguette.
3. Top the fig jam with 1-2 slices of prosciutto, depending on desired saltiness.
4. Place 1/4 cup of softened Brie cheese on top of the prosciutto.
5. Add a few fresh arugula leaves, if desired.
6. Assemble the panini by placing two slices of baguette together with the filling in between.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes

Pulled Pork Banh Mi with Pickled Vegetables

This Asian-inspired sandwich combines tender pulled pork, crispy baguette, and tangy pickled vegetables for a flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic banh mi.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 4 baguette halves
– Pickled vegetables (see below)
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish

Pickled Vegetables:

– 2 cups thinly sliced carrots
– 2 cups thinly sliced daikon radish
– 1/2 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Roast the pork for 6-8 hours or until tender.
5. Slice the pork into thin strips.
6. Toast the baguette halves.
7. Assemble the sandwiches with pulled pork, pickled vegetables, cilantro leaves, and serve.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (pork shoulder), 30 minutes (pickled vegetables)

Crab Cake Sandwich with Remoulade Sauce

Savor the flavors of the Gulf Coast with this indulgent crab cake sandwich, topped with a tangy remoulade sauce and served on a soft bun.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Remoulade sauce (recipe below)
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickle slices (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, gently combine crab meat, panko breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, Old Bay seasoning, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Be careful not to break up the lumps of crab.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a round cake.
4. Place crab cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading remoulade sauce on the bottom bun, followed by a crab cake, lettuce, tomato, pickle slices (if using), and top bun.

Remoulade Sauce:

– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Chicken Pesto Ciabatta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and easy-to-make chicken pesto ciabatta sandwich. Fresh basil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes come together to create a delightful combination that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tablespoons pesto
– 2 slices of ciabatta bread
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breast in the mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, toast ciabatta slices.
7. Assemble sandwich by placing chicken on top of toasted bread, followed by sun-dried tomatoes.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Portobello Mushroom Sandwich with Goat Cheese

This mouthwatering sandwich combines the earthy flavor of Portobello mushrooms with the tanginess of goat cheese, all on toasted baguette. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 large Portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices baguette
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture onto both sides of the mushrooms.
4. Grill the mushrooms for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, toast the baguette slices.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading goat cheese on each toasted slice, then topping with a grilled mushroom.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Reuben Sandwich with Homemade Russian Dressing

Satisfy your cravings with this iconic sandwich featuring tender corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all held together by a crispy rye bread and topped with a creamy homemade Russian dressing.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of rye bread
– 8 oz corned beef, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained
– 2 cups of shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of ketchup
– 1 teaspoon of prepared mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each rye bread slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading sauerkraut on two slices, followed by corned beef, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing (see below for recipe).
4. Top with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve immediately.

Homemade Russian Dressing:

Mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, prepared mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Avocado and Shrimp Club with Chipotle Mayo

Elevate your club sandwich game with this bold and creamy twist, featuring succulent shrimp, fresh avocado, and a spicy chipotle mayo.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
  • 1 pound cooked shrimp, chilled
  • 2 ripe avocados, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a bowl, mix together mayonnaise and chipotle peppers.
  2. To assemble the sandwich, spread chipotle mayo on two slices of bread.
  3. Add a layer of shrimp, avocado slices, lettuce (if using), tomato (if using), and red onion (if using) on top of the mayo.
  4. Top with remaining bread slices.
  5. Cook in a toaster or under the broiler for about 2-3 minutes, until toasted to desired crispiness.

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Monte Cristo Sandwich with Raspberry Jam

Experience the sweet and savory fusion of a classic Monte Cristo sandwich elevated by the tartness of raspberry jam. This unique twist on a French-inspired favorite is perfect for brunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients:
• 2 slices of white bread ( Challah or Brioche work well)
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup of raspberry jam
• 1/2 cup of ham, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup of turkey breast, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup of Swiss cheese, shredded
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, buttered-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese.
5. Spread raspberry jam on top of the meat and cheese.
6. Place the second bread slice, buttered-side up, on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Flip and cook the other side for an additional minute.
9. Dust with confectioner’s sugar (if desired).
10. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes per sandwich

Caprese Panini with Balsamic Glaze

This Caprese panini is a simple yet elegant twist on the classic Italian sandwich, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all held together by crispy bread and finished with a drizzle of rich balsamic glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of Ciabatta or Focaccia bread
– 8 oz Fresh Mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 large Tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup Fresh Basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Balsamic Glaze (see note)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by layering mozzarella, tomato, and basil on each bread slice.
3. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
4. Drizzle with Balsamic Glaze before serving.

Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes

Note: To make your own balsamic glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar over low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until thickened and reduced to a syrupy consistency. Let cool before using.

Philly Cheesesteak with Caramelized Peppers

Savor the classic flavors of Philadelphia’s iconic sandwich with a twist – sweet and savory caramelized peppers add depth to this mouthwatering cheesesteak.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness. Let rest before slicing thinly.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions and peppers over low-medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced steak on hoagie rolls, topping with caramelized peppers, provolone cheese, and any desired seasonings.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Fried Chicken Sandwich with Spicy Honey Butter

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this crispy fried chicken sandwich smothered in a sweet and spicy honey butter! The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy breading, and velvety honey butter is a match made in heaven.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Honey Butter (recipe below)
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other toppings you desire

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
3. Fry chicken in hot oil until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Assemble sandwiches with fried chicken, Spicy Honey Butter, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other toppings you like.

Spicy Honey Butter:

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)

Mix all ingredients until smooth. Spread on top of fried chicken sandwich before serving.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes

Eggplant Parmesan Hero with Marinara Sauce

Transform classic eggplant parmesan into a mouth-watering sandwich by layering it between crispy bread and rich marinara sauce. This recipe is a twist on the Italian-American favorite, perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 4 hero rolls
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into beaten eggs and then coat with breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated eggplant slices in hot olive oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble sandwiches by spreading marinara sauce on the bottom half of a hero roll, followed by a few fried eggplant slices, and finishing with the top half of the roll.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Cuban Sandwich with Mojo-Marinated Pork

Experience the fusion of flavors with this mouthwatering Cuban sandwich featuring mojo-marinated pork, crispy ham, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Mojo marinade (see below)
– 2 cups bread, preferably Cuban or French baguette
– 4 slices of ham
– 4 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1 cup dill pickle slices
– Mayonnaise or butter for spreading

Mojo Marinade:

– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Marinate the pork shoulder in Mojo marinade for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or bake the marinated pork until cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise or butter on each bread slice, then layering ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mojo-marinated pork.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including marinating time)

Turkey Cranberry Sandwich with Brie and Arugula

Elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and savory combination of flavors. Moist turkey, tangy cranberries, creamy brie, and peppery arugula come together in perfect harmony.

Ingredients:

– 4 oz sliced turkey breast
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 slices Brie cheese
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 2 whole wheat bread slices (toasted)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Thaw frozen cranberries if using.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cranberries and Dijon mustard.
3. Toast the bread slices until lightly browned.
4. Spread one slice with the cranberry mixture, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with sliced turkey breast, Brie cheese, and arugula leaves.
6. Place the second toasted bread slice on top to complete the sandwich.
7. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)

Grilled Salmon BLT with Dill Aioli

Elevate the classic BLT sandwich by adding grilled salmon and a tangy dill aioli. This flavorful twist is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 4 slices of bacon
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 2 lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns or ciabatta rolls

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook bacon slices in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing grilled salmon, crispy bacon, tomato, lettuce, and dill aioli on each bun.
5. Mix mayonnaise with chopped fresh dill for the aioli.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

French Dip Sandwich with Au Jus

Elevate your lunch game with this iconic sandwich recipe featuring tender roast beef and a rich, flavorful au jus for dipping.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) prime rib roast or top round
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hoagie rolls
– Optional: cheese, mustard, or pickles for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Sear the roast in olive oil until browned on all sides. Remove from heat.
4. In a large Dutch oven, combine beef broth, red wine, and butter. Bring to a simmer.
5. Place the roast in the au jus and cook for 2-3 hours or until tender.
6. Slice the roast thinly against the grain.
7. Assemble sandwiches by placing sliced beef on hoagie rolls and serving with warm au jus for dipping.

Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours (including oven time)

Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with Blue Cheese Slaw

Get ready to level up your sandwich game with this mouth-watering Buffalo chicken sandwich, topped with a tangy blue cheese slaw that will leave you craving more. This spicy and satisfying combination is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce
– Tomato
– Pickle slices
– Blue cheese slaw (see below)
– Crumbly blue cheese crumbles

Blue Cheese Slaw:

– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Frank’s RedHot sauce and butter.
3. Dip chicken breasts in the buffalo mixture, then bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Assemble sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, pickle slices, and blue cheese slaw.
5. Cook time: 25 minutes.

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Summary

Indulge your taste buds with these 20 decadent gourmet sandwich recipes, perfect for foodies! From classic combinations to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try truffle butter grilled cheese with caramelized onions, lobster roll with lemon aioli and fresh herbs, or beef tenderloin sandwich with horseradish cream. Other mouth-watering options include pulled pork banh mi with pickled vegetables, crab cake sandwich with remoulade sauce, and many more. These indulgent sandwiches are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

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