Turkey Club Triple Decker Sandwich

The kitchen counter was covered in Sunday newspaper sections when my dad decided we needed club sandwiches for lunch. He pulled out three slices of bread per person like he was revealing a magic trick, explaining that the triple decker was non-negotiable. I watched him carefully assemble each layer with the precision of someone building something important. Now every time I make these towering creations, I can practically smell bacon frying and hear the crunch of that first impossible bite through three layers of toast.

Last summer my neighbor came over to help me paint the back porch, and I made these club sandwiches as an afternoon break. She took one look at the towering creation and said she had never attempted a triple decker at home. Watching her face light up when she realized she could actually fit the whole thing in her mouth made my entire week. Sometimes the most satisfying moments in the kitchen are watching someone discover a classic they have been missing out on.

Ingredients

• 200 g cooked turkey breast: Slice it thinly against the grain for tender bites that layer beautifully
• 4 slices bacon: Thick cut bacon holds up better in sandwiches and provides that essential salty crunch
• 6 slices bread: White bread toasts up perfectly but whole wheat adds a nice nutty flavor dimension
• 3 tbsp mayonnaise: Room temperature mayonnaise spreads more evenly without tearing the toast
• 4 leaves romaine lettuce: Iceberg gives classic crunch but romaine adds more flavor and structure
• 1 large tomato: Slice it slightly thicker than you think you should to prevent the sandwich from falling apart
• Salt and black pepper: Light seasoning between layers brings all the flavors together

Instructions

Get your toast ready:

Toast all six bread slices until they are golden brown and crisp to the touch

Crisp the bacon:

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches your preferred crispiness then drain on paper towels

Build the foundation:

Lay out three slices of toast and spread each with half a tablespoon of mayonnaise going all the way to the edges

Layer the first level:

On the first slice arrange half the lettuce followed by half the turkey slices and a light sprinkle of salt and pepper

Add the middle deck:

Place a second slice of toast mayonnaise side down then spread another half tablespoon of mayo on top

Complete the stack:

Layer the tomato slices bacon remaining lettuce and turkey finishing with the final slice of toast

Secure and slice:

Gently press down on the sandwich insert cocktail sticks in the corners then cut diagonally into quarters

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My daughter declared these the best sandwiches she had ever eaten and requested them for her birthday lunch. Something about the playful height and the messy hands required to eat them makes the whole experience feel special.

Making It Your Own

The beauty of a club sandwich lies in its adaptability to whatever you have in the refrigerator. I have used leftover roast chicken grilled vegetables even thinly sliced steak when turkey was not available. The essential formula remains the same: bread something creamy something crispy something fresh and something savory.

Assembly Secrets

The most common mistake is overloading each layer which makes the sandwich impossible to eat. Think of each ingredient as a thin complement rather than a main event. Spreading condiments to the very edges prevents dry bites that can ruin the experience.

Perfect Pairings

A classic club sandwich deserves accompaniments that match its casual indulgent nature.

• Serve with dill pickles on the side for acid that cuts through the rich layers
• Crispy potato chips add another texture element and feel nostalgic
• A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade balances the savory richness perfectly

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There is something deeply satisfying about eating food that requires both hands and your full attention. Enjoy every messy delicious bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes this a triple-decker?

Three slices of toasted bread create two distinct layers, each filled with turkey, bacon, lettuce, and tomato for substantial height and satisfying texture in every bite.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Best assembled just before serving to maintain toast crunch. However, cook bacon and slice ingredients in advance, then stack when ready to eat.

→ What bread works best?

White or whole wheat sandwich bread toasts beautifully and holds up well to multiple layers. Avoid overly soft slices that may become soggy.

→ How do I prevent it from falling apart?

Secure each corner with cocktail sticks after stacking. Cut diagonally into quarters just before serving to maintain structure while making pieces manageable.

→ Can I use deli turkey?

Yes, though leftover roasted turkey breast offers superior texture and flavor. If using deli slices, choose thick-cut quality turkey for the best results.

→ What sides complement this?

Crisp pickles, potato chips, or a simple side salad pair perfectly. The classic diner combination adds crunch and contrasts the rich, creamy layers.