Club Sandwich Recipe: Easy Steps For A Delicious Clubhouse Sandwich

A club sandwich (or clubhouse sandwich) is a classic to end all classics. Great for quick lunches, light dinners or even substantial snacks - versatile and more than satisfying. It is no surprise that the club sandwich -  with its layers of turkey or chicken, bacon, lettuce and tomato slathered in mayonnaise, all stacked between slices of toasted bread - is a favourite worldwide. So, this is a step-by-step club sandwich recipe on how to make the perfect club sandwich, with some tips and tricks as well as different versions of it.

The history of the club sandwich

The history of the club sandwich is something you will not want to miss. It's believed to have originated in the United States of America way back in the late 19th century. The general theory is that it was served first at a private social club in Saratoga Springs, New York. The club sandwich recipe is usually composed of two slices of toasted bread, some kind of meat like turkey or chicken, bacon with mayonnaise for a flavour spread topped with tomato slices.
Its popularity soared after being featured at the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis​ (What's Cooking America). Once considered the epitome of elite dining, this easy club sandwich recipe eventually made its way into mainstream menus and became a staple in diners and delis all across America. The club sandwich still remains a versatile and enjoyable option, cherished for its blend of textures and flavours.

Club sandwich ingredients

Before we dive into the clubhouse sandwich recipe, let’s gather all the club sandwich ingredients needed:

1. 3 slices of white or whole wheat bread per sandwich
2. Sliced cooked turkey or chicken breast
3. 2-3 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
4. Fresh lettuce leaves
5. Sliced tomatoes
6. Mayonnaise, as per taste
7. Butter is optional, for toasting the bread
8. Salt and pepper to taste
9. Pickles are optional, for serving

Club sandwich recipe

1. Now, to start with this easy club sandwich recipe, cook the bacon until crispy. This can be done in a skillet on the stove or baked in the oven. After you have cooked, put the bacon on a paper towel and let it drain the excess grease.
2. Next, Slice the tomatoes and lightly season with salt and pepper.
3. Wash and dry the lettuce leaves with kitchen towels.
4. Now, to prepare the bread for the club sandwich recipe, toast the slices until they are golden brown. 
5. If you want to add more flavour to the club sandwich, butter the bread lightly on either side before it.
6. Coat one side of the first prepared slice of toasted bread with a thin layer of mayonnaise.
7. Place a few slices of turkey or chicken breast on top of the mayonnaise.
8. Add a slice of tomato and a piece of lettuce on top of the meat.
9. Spread mayonnaise on both sides of the second toasted bread slice. Place it on top of the first layer of the club sandwich.
10. Place the crispy bacon strips on top of this slice followed by another tomato slice and lettuce leaf.
11. Spread mayonnaise on one side of the third slice of toasted bread and place it, mayo-side down over the second layer of club sandwich to form your third layer.
12. Hold the club sandwich in place on each side with a toothpick. It will make sure that all the layers stay intact when you cut them.
13. Slice the club sandwich in quarters diagonally with a sharp knife. This not only makes it easier to eat, but also really adds that club sandwich look.
14. Arrange the sandwich quarters on a plate. You can serve them with pickles, potato chips, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve learnt how to make a perfect club sandwich from this one of the best club sandwich recipes, here are some variations to try:

• While turkey and chicken are traditional choices, you can also use ham, roast beef, or even a vegetarian option like grilled vegetables or tofu to make club sandwich veg.
• Add a slice of your favourite cheese (such as cheddar, Swiss, or provolone) to each layer for an extra creamy texture.
• For a modern twist and a veg club sandwich recipe, you can add slices of avocado to your sandwich. It adds a creamy texture and a healthy dose of fats.
• Mix some herbs, garlic, or a bit of mustard into your mayonnaise for an added burst of flavour.
• Use whole wheat bread, and stir-fried vegetables like cabbage, onions, bell peppers and carrots to get a veg club sandwich recipe version of the classic club sandwich.