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Diner-Style Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich

A wooden cutting board with a turkey bacon club sandwich cut into quarters. A blue and white checked napkin sits nearby.

With roasted turkey, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy mayonnaise, the classic Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich is a diner menu staple.

Do you have a favorite diner that feels like a second home? Growing up on Long Island, American diners were as ubiquitous as coffee mugs, each with its own unique charm. 

I have so many memories of gathering with friends and family at our local diner—celebrating holidays, marking school milestones, or simply grabbing a bite after a late-night movie or concert. Diners have a special place in my heart (and stomach!), and for me, the Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich was always a go-to order.

WATCH a VIDEO of me making this recipe!

Why is it called a “Club” sandwich?

Ever wondered why a club sandwich it’s called a “club?” The name is believed to have originated from private clubs, such as the Saratoga Club House in Saratoga Springs, New York, where the sandwich first gained popularity in the early 1900s. The classic club is a layered sandwich, featuring three slices of toasted white bread stacked with roasted turkey, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy mayonnaise, often cut into quarters and held together with toothpicks.

Recently, when a craving for this iconic sandwich struck, I decided to recreate some diner magic right in my own kitchen. My homemade version perfectly captures all the nostalgic deliciousness, so whether you’re reminiscing about your favorite diner days or just in the mood for a fantastic sandwich, this Diner-Style Turkey Bacon Club will hit the spot.

Sandwich ingredients lay on a table. There is turkey breast, bacon, tomato, bread, mayo and lettuce.

Ingredients for a Perfect Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich

Creating a Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich doesn’t require a long list of fancy ingredients, but the quality of each one is crucial for achieving a delicious, diner-style sandwich. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

  • Roasted Turkey Breast: For an authentic diner-style experience, fresh roasted turkey breast is a must! Unlike pre-sliced deli turkey, which often lacks the robust flavor and juiciness, freshly roasted turkey adds a rich, savory element to your sandwich. If roasting a turkey breast feels like too much of a hassle, check out the deli counter at your local grocery store. Many delis offer freshly roasted turkey breast, and they can slice it to order and to your specified thickness.

  • Sandwich Bread: The classic club sandwich traditionally uses white sandwich bread, which provides a soft and sturdy base. However, if you prefer a different type of bread, such as whole wheat or rye, feel free to substitute. Being able to substitute your bread is a classic diner-style move.

  • Bacon: For the best flavor and texture, use crispy pork bacon. The bacon not only adds a satisfying crunch but also a rich, salty flavor that compliments the other ingredients.

  • Lettuce: While a classic diner-style club often features iceberg lettuce, I recommend using romaine lettuce for its superior flavor and crispness. Romaine adds a fresh, slightly sweet taste and a vibrant green color that enhances the visual appeal of the sandwich. 

  • Tomato: To achieve the best taste, select ripe tomatoes. Avoid using mealy or flavorless tomatoes, as they can detract from the overall enjoyment of the sandwich. If it’s not tomato season, opt for the ripest tomatoes you can find.

  • Mayonnaise: A generous spread of mayonnaise is essential, as it helps to bind the ingredients together and adds a creamy, tangy flavor. Adjust the amount based on your preference for this condiment, but don’t skimp on this key component.

  • Salt & Pepper: A light sprinkle of salt and a few cracks of black pepper are all you need to bring out the best in your sandwich.

Special Supplies

  • Club Style Toothpicks: Since this sandwich is a double decker, it’s recommended to use club style toothpicks (link) to hold it together. Club style toothpicks are longer than traditional toothpicks.

  • Serrated Knife: In addition to helping to slice the tomato, I would recommend using a serrated knife to slice your sandwich into quarters. Using a serrated knife will help you get through the sandwich layers more easily without squishing its contents too much.
A close up of one quarter of a turkey club sandwich.

Recipe FAQs

How far in advance can I make a Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich?

You can prepare this sandwich a few hours ahead of time, but for the freshest taste and to avoid a soggy middle, it’s best to assemble it just before serving.

Can I add cheese to my club sandwich?

Absolutely! While cheese isn’t traditional in a classic club sandwich, adding slices of your favorite cheese—such as American, cheddar, or Swiss—can enhance the flavor and make it even more delicious.

Can I substitute chicken for turkey?

Yes, you can use chicken instead of turkey. Just make sure to slice it thinly to about ¼ inch thickness to mimic the texture of the turkey breast in this recipe.

Can I substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon?

Certainly! Turkey bacon is a great alternative to regular bacon and will work well in this sandwich, providing a slightly different flavor and texture.

Can I use a different kind of bread for the sandwich?

Yes, you can substitute white sandwich bread with other sliced breads like whole wheat or rye. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the layers of the sandwich.

A plate with two quarters of a turkey club sandwich and potato chips. More sandwich and a glass with water sits in the background.

What to serve with a Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich?

I love serving my sandwich truly diner-style with either a big plate of french fries or potato chips and a large garlic dill pickle spear. But you could also serve it alongside a salad like my Old Fashioned Creamy Cucumber Salad.

Print
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A cutting board with four pieces of a turkey bacon club sandwich sitting on top.

Diner-Style Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich

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With roasted turkey, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and creamy mayonnaise, the classic Turkey Bacon Club Sandwich is a diner menu staple.

  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 1 double decker sandwich 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 slices white bread
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, and more to taste
  • 2 large romaine leaves
  • 6 oz of sliced tomato (¼ inch thickness)
  • Salt
  • Ground Black Pepper
  • 3 strips bacon, cooked and crispy (see notes about preparation suggestions)
  • 4 ounces thinly sliced roasted turkey breast (see notes for suggestions)
  • Long toothpicks, for serving

Instructions

  1. PREP BREAD: Lightly toast the bread. Once toasted, spread mayonnaise on one side of each of the bread slices.

  2. ADD LETTUCE, TOMATO:  Cut the lettuce leaves in half, so they will fit neatly on the bread. Place a lettuce leaf on two of the slices and then top each with enough tomato slices to cover the lettuce. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

  3. ADD BACON, TURKEY: Halve the three slices of bacon and then place three bacon halves and half of the turkey onto the sandwich. 

  4. TOP & REPEAT: Top with a second slice of bread, mayonnaise side down. Gently spread mayonnaise on the top slice of bread you just placed. Repeat layering the ingredients in the same order as noted above on this slice of bread. Cover the sandwiches with the final slice of bread, mayonnaise side down. 

  5. TOOTHPICKS, SLICE & SERVE: Gently press down on the sandwich. Using four toothpicks, secure the sandwich layers in four equally spaced spots, pressing all the way through the bottom slice of bread. Use a serrated knife to cut each sandwich diagonally into four, triangular pieces. Each piece will be secured in the center with a toothpick. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • I prefer to cook my bacon in the oven. Place the bacon strips on a backing sheet and cook at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 18-20 minutes until crisp.
  • I suggest using freshly roasted turkey breast over deli sliced turkey.
  • Author: Christine
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Sandwich
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 double decker sandwich
  • Calories: 946
  • Sugar: 11.6 g
  • Sodium: 1302.5 mg
  • Fat: 59.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 54.1 g
  • Protein: 48.2 g
  • Cholesterol: 132 mg


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