A Texas-style turkey club sandwich elevates the classic club with bold flavors and hearty portions. This iconic sandwich features layers of roasted turkey, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and zesty aioli between slices of toasted bread. To make an authentic Texas-style turkey club, start by seasoning a turkey breast with kosher salt and black pepper, then sear it in a skillet before finishing in the oven until it reaches 165°F (74°C).
The assembly of this sandwich is crucial to its success. Begin with three slices of toasted bread, generously spread with a flavorful aioli or mayonnaise. Layer thick slices of the roasted turkey, crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crisp lettuce between the bread. For a true Texas touch, consider adding sliced avocado or a spicy jalapeño aioli.
This sandwich is perfect for a satisfying lunch or a casual dinner. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, while its substantial size ensures it will satisfy even the heartiest appetites. Serve it with a side of crispy potato chips or a tangy coleslaw for a complete meal that captures the essence of Texas cuisine.
Essential Ingredients for a Texas Style Turkey Club
A Texas Style Turkey Club requires specific ingredients to achieve its signature flavor and texture. Quality components and careful selection are key to crafting this hearty sandwich.
Choosing the Right Bread
Texas toast forms the foundation of this sandwich. This bread is sliced thicker than regular sandwich bread, typically 3/4 to 1 inch thick. It should have a firm texture to hold up to the generous fillings.
Look for white bread with a slightly sweet flavor. Some bakeries offer pre-sliced Texas toast, but a quality unsliced white sandwich loaf can be cut to the proper thickness at home.
For best results, lightly toast the bread before assembling the sandwich. This adds crunch and helps prevent sogginess from the fillings.
Selecting Quality Turkey
Oven-roasted turkey breast is the star of this sandwich. Choose high-quality, thinly sliced deli turkey or roast your own for optimal flavor.
Avoid processed turkey products. Look for meat with a natural texture and minimal additives. If using deli turkey, request freshly sliced meat rather than pre-packaged options.
For a truly authentic Texas touch, consider smoked turkey. This adds a rich, savory flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Aim for 3-4 ounces of turkey per sandwich, adjusting based on personal preference and bread size.
Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
Crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes are essential for a Texas Style Turkey Club. Iceberg or romaine lettuce provides crunch, while beefsteak or Roma tomatoes offer juicy flavor.
Wash and dry lettuce thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Slice tomatoes to a moderate thickness, about 1/4 inch.
For added freshness, consider incorporating herbs like basil or cilantro. Thinly sliced red onion or avocado can also enhance the sandwich’s flavor profile.
Always use the freshest produce available to ensure optimal taste and texture in your sandwich.
Bacon and Cheese Selection
Crispy bacon is a must for an authentic Texas Style Turkey Club. Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor. Cook it until crisp but not burnt.
For cheese, cheddar is a popular choice. Sharp cheddar adds a tangy contrast to the other ingredients. Pepper jack offers a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.
Slice cheese thinly to melt easily if toasting the sandwich. Alternatively, use room temperature cheese for easier layering.
Consider offering a choice of cheese options to cater to different taste preferences.
Preparation Basics
Proper preparation is key to creating a delicious Texas-style turkey club sandwich. Cooking the bacon until crisp, toasting the bread to golden perfection, and slicing vegetables precisely ensure optimal flavor and texture.
Cooking the Bacon
Cook bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Turn the slices occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
For extra crispiness, place bacon on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 15-20 minutes.
Allow bacon to cool slightly before handling. Break or cut into pieces that fit comfortably on the sandwich bread.
Toasting the Bread
Select thick-sliced Texas toast or hearty white bread. Preheat a toaster or toaster oven to medium-high setting.
Toast bread slices until golden brown on both sides. For added richness, spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice before toasting.
Allow toasted bread to cool slightly on a wire rack. This prevents soggy sandwiches by allowing steam to escape.
Slicing the Vegetables
Wash tomatoes and lettuce thoroughly. Pat dry with paper towels.
Slice tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Remove seeds if desired for a less watery sandwich.
Separate lettuce leaves, discarding any wilted or brown portions. Tear large leaves into smaller pieces that fit the bread slices.
If using onions, slice thinly and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness. Drain and pat dry before using.
Layering Your Sandwich
Proper layering is crucial for creating the perfect Texas-style turkey club sandwich. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the ideal balance of flavors and textures.
Spreading the Condiments
Start with three slices of toasted bread. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on one side of each slice. For extra flavor, mix the mayonnaise with a touch of Dijon mustard or hot sauce.
Ensure even coverage to prevent dry spots. The mayonnaise acts as a moisture barrier, preventing the bread from becoming soggy.
For a Texas twist, consider adding a layer of spicy chipotle mayo or tangy barbecue sauce to one slice.
Arranging the Turkey
Place thick slices of roasted turkey breast on the bottom piece of bread. Use about 3-4 ounces per sandwich.
Fold larger slices to fit within the bread’s edges. This creates volume and ensures turkey in every bite.
For extra flavor, sprinkle the turkey with salt, pepper, and a dash of smoked paprika before adding it to the sandwich.
Adding the Cheese and Bacon
Layer 1-2 slices of cheese on top of the turkey. Cheddar or pepper jack work well for a Texas-style sandwich.
Add 3-4 strips of crispy bacon, slightly overlapping them. Break the bacon if needed to cover the entire surface.
For a smoky touch, use applewood or hickory-smoked bacon. Ensure it’s cooked until crisp to add a satisfying crunch.
Placing the Vegetables
Add a layer of crisp lettuce on top of the bacon. Iceberg or romaine provide a refreshing crunch.
Place 2-3 thick slices of ripe tomato on the lettuce. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
For added zest, include thin slices of red onion or pickled jalapeños. These provide a tangy kick characteristic of Texas cuisine.
Top with avocado slices for creaminess. Finish with the remaining bread slices, securing the sandwich with toothpicks.
Serving and Presentation
The final steps of preparing a Texas-style turkey club sandwich involve proper cutting and attractive plating. These techniques enhance the eating experience and visual appeal.
Cutting the Sandwich
Cut the assembled sandwich diagonally from corner to corner, creating two triangular halves. This classic cut makes the sandwich easier to handle and showcases its layers. For larger sandwiches, consider a second diagonal cut to create four smaller triangles.
Use a sharp, serrated knife for clean cuts without squishing the layers. Apply gentle pressure and use a sawing motion to slice through the bread and fillings. Wipe the knife between cuts to maintain neatness.
For a more casual presentation, cut the sandwich straight across into rectangles. This style works well for picnics or packed lunches.
Plating
Arrange the cut sandwich pieces on a large, clean plate. Position them with the cut sides facing outward to display the layers. For a Texas-sized appetite, use a platter to accommodate multiple sandwiches.
Add a small pile of crisp potato chips or French fries beside the sandwich for a traditional accompaniment. Place a pickle spear on the side for a tangy contrast.
Garnish the plate with a sprinkle of paprika or a dusting of barbecue seasoning for a Texas twist. Add a small ramekin of extra mayo or a signature sauce for dipping.
For a more upscale presentation, use a rectangular slate or wooden board. Arrange the sandwich pieces in a line or fan pattern. Add small bowls of gourmet mustard or flavored aioli.
Accompaniments and Sides
A Texas-style turkey club sandwich pairs well with various side dishes that complement its bold flavors. Classic options include crispy potato chips or french fries, providing a satisfying crunch alongside the sandwich.
For a healthier alternative, consider serving a green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the sandwich.
Coleslaw is another popular choice, offering a creamy and tangy contrast to the savory turkey and bacon. A simple recipe with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a mayonnaise-based dressing works well.
Pickles are a traditional accompaniment, adding a zesty bite to each mouthful. Dill pickles or pickled jalapeños bring a Texan touch to the plate.
For a heartier side, roasted garlic parmesan potatoes provide a flavorful and filling option. Their crispy exterior and soft interior complement the textures in the sandwich.
To round out the meal, consider serving a cup of tomato soup or a light vegetable soup. This combination creates a satisfying lunch or dinner experience.
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of your Texas-style turkey club sandwich. If not consumed immediately, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Store the wrapped sandwich in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and absorption of other food odors.
When ready to eat, remove the sandwich from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and the textures to soften slightly.
To reheat, remove any cold ingredients like lettuce and tomato. Toast the sandwich in a panini press or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
For longer storage, consider freezing individual components separately. Cooked turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months, while bread can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Tips for leftover ingredients:
- Use extra turkey in salads or soups
- Crisp up leftover bacon in the oven for a quick snack
- Repurpose extra Texas toast for garlic bread or croutons