“I’m going to make myself a sandwich.” We can hear Grandpa saying that now. And our sandwiches in the South are creative and sometimes unexpected. We have simple creations; seasonal superstars; and over-the-top layered specialties. No matter your sandwich of choice, they all conjure up memories of joining Grandpa around the kitchen table enjoying his favorites.
Never Lose A Recipe Again
With MyRecipes, your personal recipe box, you can save and organize all of your Southern Living favorites and thousands more in one place.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Just because there are no meatloaf leftovers to be found, it doesn’t mean this favorite sandwich isn’t a lunch option. Making meatloaf patties cuts down on the cooking time, so you can have a delicious sandwich with all the toppings in about 30 minutes.
Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling; Prop Stylist: Prissy Lee Montiel
Tender, slow-cooked pork piled high on a bun with slaw and pickles—this is exactly the kind of hearty, satisfying sandwich Grandpa would request again and again.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Simply the best. There’s really no better way to put it. This sandwich, which has a very short ingredient list, is best eaten over the kitchen sink.
Jennifer Causey; Food Stylist: Rishon Hanners; Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
There’s always room for a classic. While frying chicken might not be as easy as making a grilled cheese, follow our Test Kitchen tips and you will have a lunch that he remembers.
Stacy K. Allen; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
Why has the pork chop lost its popularity? We want to bring it back – and this sandwich shows its flavorful force. Add creamy coleslaw and apple butter sauce and you know why it’s on the favorite list.
Greg Dupree, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
For the guest who loves their fried fish, this is the sandwich order for you. The combination of crispy fish, chow chow–spiked mayonnaise, Spicy Slaw, and buttery toasted brioche buns is a lunch idea that could be served at dinner too.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
There is always room for a classic grilled cheese. Especially if it’s served with a hot bowl of tomato soup.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
If Ham and Cheese on a Hawaiian roll are their go-to lunch request, then consider having a little fun and turning them into sliders. The combo of mayo and mustard gives them the perfect flavorful kick.
Bologna is making a comeback. Really! This fried sandwich gets a modern upgrade with a Creole/mayo spread, Texas toast, lettuce, tomato, and potato chips (of course!).
Jennifer Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen
We always talk about barbecue chicken, but turkey needs a little attention. It has potential to stick around beyond Thanksgiving. The coleslaw and barbecue sauce make this is a recipe to make on repeat all year long.
Antonis Achilleos; Prop Stylist: Caleb Clarke; Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall
Everything tastes better as a mini, right? Turn the beloved French Dip – roast beef, caramelized onions, creamy provolone cheese – into sliders for a great make-and-take lunch idea.
Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox
Roast beef is the most underrated sandwich around. This recipe is so good thanks to the condiments that help bring it alive–horseradish, mayonnaise, mustard. and more.
