Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich Recipe

  • July 1, 2025

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich is a delicious, simple, and flavorful choice for anyone looking to elevate their lunchtime experience. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit different tastes while remaining wholesome and satisfying.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich is a wholesome, delicious sandwich packed with layers of tender turkey breast, fresh vegetables, and a selection of flavor-packed condiments. Known for its balance of freshness and heartiness, this sandwich is not only a perfect option for using up leftover turkey but also a simple and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. It typically features a combination of freshly baked bread, lean turkey slices, a tangy spread, crisp lettuce, and vibrant tomato slices, all brought together in a delicious, easy-to-prepare sandwich.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver turkey sandwich

To make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 slices of fresh whole grain or sourdough bread: Choose your preferred bread for a hearty base, ideally one that is crusty and holds the fillings well.
  • Thinly sliced turkey breast: Either leftover roasted turkey or freshly deli-sliced turkey works great. It’s best to opt for lean cuts for a healthier sandwich.
  • Lettuce: Crisp lettuce, such as Romaine or butterhead, adds freshness and crunch.
  • Tomato slices: A few ripe tomato slices will bring juiciness and a bit of sweetness to the sandwich.
  • Cheese: A slice of mild cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a tangy goat cheese enhances the flavor profile.
  • Condiments: A spread like mayo, mustard, or a tangy dressing (e.g., cranberry sauce if you prefer a bit of sweetness) brings all the components together.
  • Avocado (optional): Sliced avocado adds creaminess and richness, a perfect addition if you like a richer texture.

Equipment Needed

To make the sandwich, you’ll need minimal equipment, which makes this recipe super convenient:

  • Knife: To slice the turkey, bread, and vegetables.
  • Cutting board: To chop the vegetables and prepare the sandwich ingredients.
  • Butter knife or spreader: For spreading condiments like mayo, mustard, or any dressing.
  • Plate: To assemble and serve the sandwich.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich?

Here’s how you can make Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich in a few simple steps:

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Start by slicing your bread, turkey, tomatoes, and any other veggies or condiments you plan to use. If you’re using cheese or avocado, slice those as well.
  2. Toast the bread (optional): You can toast your bread lightly for extra crunch or keep it soft and fresh if you prefer.
  3. Spread the condiments: Spread your desired condiments (mayo, mustard, or dressing) evenly on one or both slices of bread.
  4. Layer the ingredients: Place a layer of turkey slices on one slice of bread, followed by a slice of cheese, a few leaves of lettuce, and a few tomato slices. If you’re using avocado, layer that in as well.
  5. Assemble the sandwich: Top with the second slice of bread, condiments side facing the fillings. Gently press the sandwich together.
  6. Serve: Slice the sandwich diagonally for a stylish presentation, and serve it with a side of chips, salad, or any other accompaniment you enjoy.

Expert Tips

jamie oliver turkey sandwich

  1. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients: The quality of your turkey and bread will make a big difference in the overall flavor of the sandwich.
  2. Try different spreads: Experiment with different spreads, such as pesto, cranberry sauce, or a balsamic glaze, to elevate the taste of the sandwich.
  3. Add extra veggies: For extra nutrition and crunch, add cucumber, red onion, or even a few slices of roasted red pepper.
  4. Toasting the bread: If you prefer a crunchy texture, toast the bread lightly before assembling the sandwich. This will help the bread hold up better against the moisture from the turkey and veggies.
  5. Wrap it up: If you’re making the sandwich for a picnic or lunch on the go, wrap it in parchment paper to keep everything together and maintain freshness.

Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich is a quick, healthy, and delicious choice for any meal. It combines the lean goodness of turkey with fresh vegetables, flavorful condiments, and hearty bread. Perfect for a midweek lunch or as a post-holiday treat using up leftover turkey, this sandwich is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something amazing.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich

Jamie Oliver’s turkey sandwich is a perfect canvas for creativity, offering endless variations based on personal taste and available ingredients. You can easily transform this simple sandwich into something that suits any craving or dietary need. Below are some delicious and easy recipe variations to try:

1. Classic Cranberry And Cream Cheese

For a traditional yet elevated twist, spread some cream cheese onto your bread along with a generous dollop of cranberry sauce. The cream cheese adds a rich, creamy texture that balances perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the cranberry. This variation works especially well during the holiday season, reminiscent of the flavors of a festive turkey dinner.

2. Avocado And Sriracha

For those who like a bit of heat, avocado and sriracha sauce make for an exciting addition. Spread mashed avocado on your bread and drizzle a little sriracha for a spicy kick. The creamy avocado provides a cool contrast to the fiery sauce, adding depth to the sandwich while keeping the turkey as the star.

3. Turkey And Apple Slaw

To add a crunchy, refreshing element to your turkey sandwich, try incorporating an apple slaw. Grate some apples and mix them with shredded cabbage, a little mayonnaise, a splash of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. The sweet and tart apples combined with the creamy slaw will complement the savory turkey in an irresistible way.

4. Pesto And Mozzarella Turkey Sandwich

For a more Mediterranean flavor profile, spread a layer of basil pesto on your bread and add fresh mozzarella slices along with the turkey. This variation is aromatic and herby, with the pesto bringing a fresh, punchy flavor, while the mozzarella provides a creamy and mild contrast to the turkey.

5. Hot Turkey Sandwich With Gravy

If you’re in the mood for something more comforting, you can heat your turkey and top it with gravy. Serve it on a sturdy, toasted sandwich bread and enjoy the warmth of the meat and sauce.

You could even melt some cheese on top for extra richness. This version takes the sandwich into more of a "hot meal" territory, perfect for a chilly day.

6. Turkey, Spinach, And Feta Wrap

If you prefer a lighter, low-carb version, try wrapping your turkey in a spinach tortilla with fresh spinach leaves and crumbled feta cheese. Add some lemon juice and olive oil for a fresh, zingy dressing. This variation is fresh, healthy, and bursting with vibrant flavors.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover turkey from your sandwich can easily be transformed into another meal, but storing it properly is essential to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Here are some best practices:

1. Cool Turkey Quickly

After preparing your turkey, allow it to cool to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than two hours to avoid bacteria growth. If you have a large batch of turkey, slice it into smaller portions to cool it down faster.

2. Use Airtight Containers

Store your leftover turkey in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air from drying out the meat and to avoid absorbing other food odors in the fridge.

3. Refrigerate Within Two Hours

Place the turkey in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to keep it safe to eat. Store the leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to label the container with the date so you can track how long it’s been stored.

4. Freeze For Long-Term Storage

If you don’t plan to eat the leftover turkey within a few days, freezing is your best option. Turkey can be frozen for up to 3 months. Slice the turkey into portions before freezing, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.

5. Reheat Properly

To reheat leftover turkey, do so gently to avoid drying it out. The best way is to use a microwave or stovetop with a little bit of added moisture (like broth or water) to keep the meat moist. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F) until warmed through.

What Goes Well With A Turkey Sandwich?

A turkey sandwich is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, drinks, and snacks. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Chips Or Fries

Classic potato chips or golden fries are always a great companion to any sandwich. Their crunchiness complements the softness of the sandwich, creating a satisfying contrast in textures.

2. Fresh Salad

A light, crisp salad can balance out the richness of the turkey sandwich. You could go for a simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette, or opt for something heartier like a Caesar or coleslaw.

3. Soup

A warm, comforting soup pairs beautifully with a turkey sandwich. Tomato soup is a popular option, offering a tangy and slightly sweet profile that contrasts nicely with the savory turkey. A bowl of chicken noodle or vegetable soup can also be a satisfying accompaniment.

4. Pickles

The sharp, tangy flavor of pickles adds an extra kick to your sandwich experience. Whether you prefer dill, bread-and-butter, or spicy pickles, they’ll enhance the flavors of the turkey sandwich and provide a nice crunchy texture.

5. Fruit

Fresh fruit is a refreshing complement to a turkey sandwich. Sweet options like apple slices, grapes, or pears bring a natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory turkey. You could also try a mixed fruit salad for an added burst of flavor.

6. Cheese

If you’re not already adding cheese to your sandwich, why not pair it with a side of cheese for extra flavor?

Sharp cheddar, brie, or goat cheese are great choices that elevate the sandwich’s flavor profile.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s turkey sandwich is a delightful meal that can easily be adapted to suit your tastes and preferences. With endless variations, you can switch up the fillings, sauces, and toppings to create your ideal sandwich. From the classic cranberry and cream cheese to the spicy avocado sriracha version, there’s a turkey sandwich for every occasion.

Remember to store your leftovers properly to enjoy them later and pair your sandwich with complementary sides and beverages to elevate the meal. Whether you prefer it cold or hot, with a side of fries or a fresh salad, the turkey sandwich is a simple yet satisfying choice for any meal.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich?

Jamie Oliver’s turkey sandwich typically includes leftover cooked turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, quality bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta), fresh herbs like sage or parsley, mayonnaise, and optional extras like pickles or cheese.

How Does Jamie Oliver Suggest Preparing The Bread For The Sandwich?

Jamie recommends lightly toasting or warming the bread to enhance its texture and flavor. He sometimes rubs it with a cut clove of garlic for extra depth.

What Type Of Turkey Works Best In This Sandwich?

Leftover roasted turkey, especially from a Christmas or holiday meal, works perfectly. Jamie emphasizes using both white and dark meat for a more flavorful and moist result.

Can I Use Store-bought Cranberry Sauce In Jamie’s Turkey Sandwich?

Yes, store-bought cranberry sauce is perfectly acceptable, though Jamie often encourages making your own for better flavor and texture. A chunky, tart sauce complements the savory turkey well.

Does Jamie Oliver Include Gravy In His Turkey Sandwich?

Occasionally, Jamie adds a small drizzle of warm leftover gravy or serves it on the side for dipping, especially if the sandwich is part of a Boxing Day meal.

Are There Any Vegetarian Alternatives Suggested By Jamie Oliver?

While this particular recipe focuses on turkey, Jamie often suggests vegetarian alternatives in his cookbooks and videos-like roasted squash or mushrooms paired with stuffing and cranberry sauce.

What Are Jamie’s Tips For Keeping The Sandwich From Getting Soggy?

To prevent sogginess, Jamie recommends layering dry ingredients first (like lettuce or turkey), using thick-cut bread, and adding sauces like mayo or cranberry sparingly or in the center of the sandwich.

Can Jamie Oliver’s Turkey Sandwich Be Made Ahead Of Time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead. If assembling early, store it wrapped in parchment paper in the fridge and avoid wet ingredients touching the bread until just before eating.

What Sides Pair Well With This Turkey Sandwich According To Jamie Oliver?

Jamie often suggests pairing it with crunchy slaw, leftover roast potatoes, a light salad, or even a mug of hot soup like butternut squash or leek and potato.

Is This Sandwich Recipe Featured In Any Of Jamie Oliver’s Books Or Shows?

Yes, variations of Jamie’s turkey sandwich appear in his holiday-themed shows and cookbooks, especially ‘Jamie’s Christmas’ and ‘Jamie Oliver”s Comfort Food”. He also features it on his website and YouTube channel.