Some may say sandwiches are simple — just bread, a filling, and maybe a dash of sauce. But in reality, the types of sandwiches you can enjoy today are anything but basic.

From towering, multi-layered creations stacked with meats and cheeses to delicate, veggie-packed bites, sandwiches are as varied as they are delicious.

They’re a favourite among food lovers for their versatility, convenience, and endless customisation.

In this article, we’ll dive into a delicious variety of sandwiches.

You’ll find fresh ideas, classic sandwich recipes, and maybe even a few fun facts along the way.

Speaking of which, did you know that the longest sandwich ever made stretched over 730 metres? That’s about the length of 7 football pitches lined up!

Here’s another one — you can order a wide range of sandwiches through the Bolt Food app!

Or, if you’re feeling creative, you can find fresh ingredients on Bolt Market to make your own homemade version.

Types of sandwiches

History of the sandwich

sandwich history

The story of the sandwich begins in the 18th century at a rather unusual setting — a gambling table!

The sandwich owes its name to John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, an English nobleman known for his love of food and cards.

Legend has it that Montagu didn’t want to interrupt his game, so he asked for his meal — a slice of meat between two pieces of bread — to be brought to him right at the table.

This way, he could eat with one hand and play cards with the other. Word spread, and soon, everyone was ordering “the same as Sandwich.”

And thanks to that little moment of invention, we’re here today, writing about the amazing world of sandwiches!

Popular types of sandwiches

Some types stand out as all-time favourites. These classics are loved for a reason — they’re simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Let’s explore!

Grilled cheese

Grilled cheese

There’s something magical about a grilled cheese sandwich — golden, buttery bread with gooey, melted cheese in the middle.

It’s simple, comforting, and perfect for a quick meal or a cosy snack.

What makes it so good? The secret is in the balance: the crunch of the toasted bread against the creamy melt of the cheese.

Traditionally, it’s made with cheddar or American cheese, but you don’t have to stop there. The beauty of grilled cheese is its versatility.

Recipe:

Choose your bread: classic white bread works well, but sourdough or a thick-cut rustic loaf will give extra crunch and flavour.
Pick your cheese: cheddar is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella, Gruyère, or a mix.
Butter (or mayo) the bread: spread a thin layer of butter on the outside of each slice for a golden, crispy crust.
Assemble and cook: place the cheese between the slices, buttered sides out, and grill in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden and melted.

National Grilled Cheese Day is on 12 April, but no need to wait! Search for grilled cheese sandwiches on Bolt Food, or grab fresh ingredients from Bolt Market to make your own.

Club sandwich

Club sandwich

People love the club sandwich because it’s reliable — you always know what you’re getting, and there’s comfort in that.

It’s so popular that you’re likely to find it in almost every spot that serves sandwiches.

What makes it so good? It’s all about the layers. The mix of textures — crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, juicy tomato, and tender turkey — gives each bite a satisfying crunch and burst of flavour.

Recipe:

3 slices of bread: toasted, of course!
Assemble the layers: start with a slice of bread, spread with mayo, and add turkey, lettuce, and tomato. Place a second slice of bread on top, add bacon, and repeat.
Finish and slice: top with the final slice of bread, secure with toothpicks, and slice into quarters.

Chicken sandwich

Chicken sandwich

Breaded and crispy or grilled and juicy, the chicken sandwich is another favourite found almost anywhere.

It’s typically made with seasoned chicken breast, served on a bun or bread, and topped with fresh ingredients like lettuce, tomato, and a spread of mayo or sauce.

What makes it so good? Chicken pairs perfectly with fresh toppings, creating a balance of flavours and textures that’s hard to beat. Plus, you can make it spicy, tangy, or classic, depending on your mood.

Recipe:

Prepare the chicken: season a chicken breast with salt, pepper, and any spices you like. Grill or pan-fry until fully cooked, or go for a breaded version by coating it in flour and frying until golden.
Assemble: place the cooked chicken on a bun or bread of your choice. Add lettuce, tomato, and a spread of mayo or your favourite sauce.
Finish it off: top with the other half of the bun, cut in half, and enjoy!

BLT (bacon, lettuce, and tomato)

BLT sandwich

If you had to describe a great sandwich in just 3 letters, it would be BLT. This classic combo of bacon, lettuce, and tomato is simple, satisfying, and easy to make.

Crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomato on toasted bread with a bit of mayo — it’s everything you want in a sandwich.

What makes it so good? It’s the simplicity. With just 3 main ingredients — bacon, lettuce, and tomato — the BLT still delivers a great flavour.

BLT sandwich definition

Recipe:

Prepare the ingredients: cook the bacon until crispy, wash and dry the lettuce, and slice the tomato.
Toast and spread: toast two slices of bread, then spread a thin layer of mayo on each slice.
Assemble: layer the bacon, lettuce, and tomato on 1 slice of bread, then top with the other.

Ham sandwich

Ham and Cheese

The ham sandwich is the one you’ll find in most lunchboxes because it’s so simple and always satisfying.

Just a few ingredients — ham, bread, and maybe a slice of cheese or a spread of mustard — and you’ve got yourself a classic.

What makes it so good? It’s endlessly adaptable. Keep it simple with just ham and buttered bread, or add cheese, pickles, lettuce, or even a bit of mayo for extra flavour.

Recipe:

Choose your bread: soft white, crusty baguette, or whole grain — any bread works well with ham.
Layer the ham: place a few slices of ham on one slice of bread. Add cheese if you like, or go classic with just ham.
Add your extras (optional): spread some mustard or mayo, and add lettuce, tomato, or pickles for extra crunch.
Finish and serve: top with the other slice of bread, slice in half, and enjoy this simple classic!

Peanut butter & jelly

Peanut butter & jelly

Let’s take a break from all the savoury stuff. Sometimes, you just need a bit of sweetness.

The peanut butter and jelly sandwich — or PB&J — is very popular, especially in the United States.

It’s so iconic that you’ll often see it in movie scenes or even hear it mentioned in songs.

What makes it so good? It’s the perfect mix of salty and sweet. The creamy (or crunchy) peanut butter pairs with fruity jelly for a simple but satisfying sandwich.

Recipe:

Spread the peanut butter: cover one slice of bread with a generous layer of peanut butter. Go for creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer.
Add the jelly: spread a layer of jelly or jam on the other slice. Grape and strawberry are classic choices, but feel free to mix it up.

It’s as easy as it gets — and you can find all the ingredients you need on Bolt Market to make your PB&J at home.

Reuben sandwich

Reuben sandwich

An irresistible mix of meaty, salty, and tangy flavours — all packed between slices of rye bread. That’s the Reuben sandwich.

What makes it so good? It’s the perfect mix of flavours and textures: salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and creamy dressing — grilled until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted.

Recipe:

Start with rye bread: it’s traditional and gives the sandwich its signature flavour.
Layer the fillings: add a generous layer of corned beef, then top with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and a drizzle of Russian or Thousand Island dressing.
Grill it: place the other slice of bread on top, butter the outsides, and grill the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

Fun fact: The origin of the Reuben is still debated. Some say it was created in a New York deli, while others claim it was invented by a grocer in Omaha, Nebraska.

Breakfast sandwiches

If you’re looking for a reason to love early mornings, breakfast sandwiches might just be it. They’re the perfect pair for your coffee or tea and add a delicious boost to your morning routine.

Bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich

Bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich

They’re the classic breakfast trio — bacon, eggs, and cheese. So it only makes sense to unite them all under slices of bread, right?

What makes it so good? It’s got everything you want in a morning bite: crispy, melty, and savoury all in one. Bacon brings the crunch, the egg adds heartiness, and the cheese melts into every corner.

Recipe:

Cook the bacon and egg: fry the bacon until crispy, then cook the egg to your liking — scrambled or fried both work well.
Choose your bread: a soft roll, bagel, or English muffin all make a great base for this sandwich.
Assemble: layer the bacon, egg, and cheese on 1 half of the bread, then top with the other half.

Fun fact: in New York, the bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich is more than just breakfast — it’s a cultural icon, often ordered simply as a “BEC.”

Avocado toast sandwich

Avocado toast sandwich

Let’s start the morning fresh — how about creamy avocado spread over toasted bread, topped with some extras?

The avocado toast sandwich is a lighter, fresher way to kick-start the day, and it’s packed with flavour and healthy fats.

What makes it so good? It’s creamy and fresh! Avocado adds richness without being heavy, and you can top it with anything from eggs to a sprinkle of chilli flakes for extra flavour.

Recipe:

Prepare the avocado: mash a ripe avocado with a pinch of salt, pepper, and lemon juice for brightness.
Layer it up: spread the mashed avocado on your toasted bread, and add toppings like a fried or poached egg, cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of chilli flakes.
Slice and serve: cut the toast in half, and enjoy this fresh start to your day!

Smoked salmon bagel

Smoked salmon bagel

We can’t end this section without mentioning the smoked salmon bagel (lox bagel).

Cream cheese, smoked salmon, and a few fresh toppings combine on a toasted bagel for a breakfast that feels a little fancy but is easy to make.

What makes it so good? It’s the perfect blend of creamy, salty, and fresh. The cream cheese adds richness, the smoked salmon brings a salty, smoky flavour, and toppings like capers and red onion give it a zesty kick.

How to make it:

Choose your bagel: plain, sesame — everything works great with smoked salmon.
Add the cream cheese: spread a thick layer of cream cheese on each half of the toasted bagel.
Layer the toppings: add slices of smoked salmon, followed by thin slices of red onion, capers, and a few sprigs of fresh dill if you like.

Health benefits: smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for heart health and brain function and even reduce anxiety. Plus, cream cheese provides calcium for bone health.

Cold sandwiches

The smoked salmon bagel shows us that not every sandwich needs to be toasted or grilled. Sometimes, a cold sandwich is exactly what you need — fresh, crisp, and ready to eat right out of the fridge.

They’re perfect for a quick lunch that’s fresh and easy.

Turkey sandwich

Turkey sandwich

Light, tasty, and packed with protein — the turkey sandwich is a great choice for an easy, satisfying meal.

With slices of lean turkey, fresh veggies, and your favourite condiments, it’s a go-to for lunch that keeps things simple but flavourful.

What makes it so good? Turkey is mild and pairs well with almost anything. Add crunchy lettuce, juicy tomato, and a spread like mustard or mayo, and you’ve got a sandwich that’s light but filling.

How to make it:

Pick your bread and spread: whole grain, sourdough, or white bread works well. Add a layer of mayo, mustard, or your favourite spread.
Layer on the turkey and extras: add slices of turkey, followed by lettuce, tomato, and any other toppings you like.
Close and enjoy: put the other slice of bread on top, slice in half if you like, and dig in!

Health benefits: turkey is a lean protein that’s low in fat and high in vitamins like B6.

Tuna salad sandwich

Tuna salad sandwich

The tuna salad sandwich may have started as a way to use leftovers, but today, it’s a lunch favourite loved by many.

What makes it so good? Creamy tuna mixed with crisp veggies hits the perfect balance of texture and flavour. Plus, tuna’s lean protein and omega-3s make it as nutritious as it is tasty.

Recipe:

Mix the tuna salad: combine canned tuna with mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add diced celery, red onion, or pickles for extra crunch.
Build your sandwich: spread the tuna salad on whole wheat, rye, or a crusty roll. Top with lettuce, cucumber, or tomato slices for added freshness.

Veggie sandwich

Sometimes, meat’s not invited to this party. The veggie sandwich is all about fresh veggies piled high between slices of bread.

It’s a light, satisfying meal that’s full of flavour and packed with nutrients.

What makes it so good? With crisp veggies, creamy spreads, and hearty whole-grain bread, the veggie sandwich is as filling as any meaty option.

Packed with nutrients and full of flavour, it proves you don’t need meat to have a seriously satisfying bite.

Recipe:

Pick your veggies: layer your favourites — lettuce leaves for fibre, cucumber for hydration, bell peppers for vitamin C, avocado for healthy fats, and sprouts for added protein.
Choose your spread: add a layer of hummus for protein, pesto for flavour and healthy fats, or cream cheese for a touch of creaminess.
Assemble: place the veggies on your chosen bread (whole grain or sourdough work well), stack as high as you like, and top with the other slice.

Hot sandwiches

For every yin, there’s a yang. While cold sandwiches keep it fresh and light, hot sandwiches bring warmth and comfort.

With melted cheese, toasty bread, and hearty fillings, these sandwiches are perfect when you need something a little extra cosy and satisfying.

Cuban sandwich

Cuban sandwich

A classic you can’t resist!

The Cuban sandwich, or “Cubano,” is packed with flavour: roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between slices of crusty Cuban bread.

What makes it so good? The roasted pork is the real star here. Slow-cooked and seasoned, it adds a rich, juicy layer that sets this sandwich apart.

Recipe:

Prepare the ingredients: use sliced roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and mustard.
Assemble: layer the pork, ham, cheese, and pickles on one half of the bread. Spread mustard on the other half, then press them together.
Grill and press: butter the outside of the bread and press the sandwich on a grill or skillet over medium heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Fun fact: the Cuban sandwich has sparked a friendly rivalry between Tampa and Miami, with both cities claiming to have the original recipe.

Philly cheesesteak

Philly cheesesteak

The Philly cheesesteak is proof that, sometimes, simple ingredients can make a big impact.

Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and sautéed onions, all loaded into a long roll — it’s a warm, messy, and satisfying sandwich that’s hard to beat.

What makes it so good? It’s the way the juicy beef and melted cheese soak into the roll. The bread softens just enough to hold all the flavours together without falling apart, creating that perfect balance of tender and chewy.

Recipe:

Cook the beef: thinly slice steak (like ribeye) and cook it in a hot skillet with a little oil until it’s browned and tender.
Sauté the onions: in the same skillet, cook sliced onions until soft and caramelised.
Melt the cheese: lay slices of provolone or American cheese over the hot beef in the pan and let it melt.
Assemble: load the beef, onions, and melted cheese into a long roll or hoagie bun.

Fun fact: The Philly cheesesteak was invented in the 1930s when a hot dog vendor in Philadelphia decided to cook some beef on his grill.

Italian panini

Italian panini

Italy is not just known for pizza and pasta — it also invented the delicious panini!

Pressed between a hot grill, this sandwich is loaded with layers of Italian meats, melted cheese, and fresh toppings.

What makes it so good? The magic happens when the panini is pressed and grilled. The bread becomes perfectly crispy on the outside, while the heat melts the cheese and infuses all the flavours together.

Recipe:

Pick your fillings: choose Italian meats like prosciutto or salami, add a slice of mozzarella or provolone, and a few fresh basil leaves.
Assemble: layer your fillings between slices of crusty bread like ciabatta or focaccia.
Press and grill: place the sandwich in a panini press or grill it in a skillet with weight on top until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.

Popular sandwich fillings

Some sandwiches are known for their specific fillings, but that doesn’t mean you can’t mix things up!

Add a little twist, switch things up, or create something completely new with these popular fillings.

These fillings are perfect for creating your own sandwich recipes.

Meats

For many, the filling starts with the meat. The right meat can set the tone for the whole sandwich. Here are some favourites to consider:

Turkey: light, mild, and pairs well with almost any topping.
Ham: classic and versatile, ham is always a solid choice, especially with cheese.
Roast beef: juicy and full of flavour, perfect with horseradish or mustard.
Salami: brings a bold, slightly spicy kick — great for Italian-inspired sandwiches.
Chicken: grilled, roasted, or breaded, chicken is adaptable to any flavour profile.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian fillings remind us that a great sandwich doesn’t need meat to be delicious. Here are some favourites that work great on their own or combined:

Avocado: it’s creamy and rich, with healthy fats and a smooth texture. It’s perfect with tomato, lettuce, or even a sprinkle of chilli flakes.
Grilled veggies: bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add a smoky flavour.
Hummus: creamy, nutty, and packed with protein, it’s a great base for layering fresh veggies or even adding a little feta.
Cucumber and sprouts: crisp and refreshing, these make any sandwich feel lighter and fresher.
Pickles and olives: for a bit of tang and saltiness, these are perfect accents that add a burst of flavour.

Cheeses

Cheeses

No wonder people smile when they say cheese — it adds richness, flavour, and texture to any dish, and sandwiches are no exception.

Cheddar: bold and sharp, it brings strong flavour and melts beautifully in grilled sandwiches.
Mozzarella: mild and stretchy, perfect for a gooey texture in hot sandwiches or fresh with tomatoes and basil.
Swiss: nutty and mild, pairs well with meats like ham and roast beef.
Provolone: smooth and slightly tangy, great in Italian-style sandwiches or with roasted veggies.
Goat cheese: creamy and tangy, adding a unique flavour that pairs well with sweet toppings like honey or fig jam.
Soft cheese: mild and creamy, pairs well with veggies and spreads.
Blue cheese: bold and crumbly, ideal for a strong, savoury kick.

Condiments & spreads

Condiments

A sandwich without condiments? Unthinkable! Condiments and spreads add moisture, flavour, and that final touch that brings everything together. Here are some go-to options for boosting taste and texture:

Olive oil: adds a rich, Mediterranean touch and is great for brushing on bread before grilling.
Mayonnaise: creamy and mild, it adds richness and helps keep the sandwich moist.
Mustard: sharp and tangy, perfect for cutting through rich meats like roast beef or ham.
Hummus: nutty and packed with protein, it’s a great plant-based option that pairs well with fresh veggies.
Greek yoghurt: a tangy alternative to mayo, perfect for lighter sandwiches.
Pesto: fresh and garlicky, adds a burst of herby flavour and works well with mozzarella and tomatoes.
Hot sauce: adds heat and a kick of acidity, great for spicing up milder fillings.
Honey or fig jam: sweet and unique, these spreads pair beautifully with tangy cheeses or salty meats.

Best breads for sandwiches

Different kinds of bread with nutrition whole grains on wooden background. Food and bakery in kitchen concept. Delicious breakfast gouemet and meal.

Time to put all those delicious fillings between the perfect slices! The right bread can take a sandwich from good to great, adding texture, flavour, and structure.

Sourdough: tangy, chewy, and sturdy — perfect for grilled sandwiches or ones with heavier fillings.
Ciabatta: light and airy with a crispy crust, great for paninis and Italian-style sandwiches.
Whole grain: nutty and packed with fibre, it’s a hearty option that pairs well with fresh veggies and lean proteins.
Rye: dense with a slightly sour flavour, ideal for deli-style sandwiches like pastrami or corned beef.
Baguette: crunchy on the outside and soft inside, perfect for fillings that can handle a bit of crust, like steak or pulled pork.
Brioche: soft, slightly sweet, and buttery — perfect for breakfast sandwiches or anything with a rich filling.
Bagels: chewy and dense, great for smoked salmon or any fillings that need a strong base.
Focaccia: soft, flavourful, and slightly oily — excellent for Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches with fresh herbs, mozzarella, or roasted veggies.

Time to enjoy your sandwich!

Now you’re a sandwich expert — you know the types, the best fillings, and the ideal bread. While reading about sandwiches is great, nothing beats having one in your hand and taking that first delicious bite.

Feeling hungry now? Get these tasty sandwiches delivered right to your door with Bolt Food!

And if you’re feeling inspired to make your own creation, Bolt Market has all the fresh ingredients you need to craft the perfect sandwich at home.

Frequently asked questions

What are the 7 major types of sandwiches?

The 7 major types of sandwiches are open-faced, closed, finger sandwiches, wraps, pinwheel sandwiches, grilled sandwiches, and subs or hoagies.

What is the most popular sandwich?

The most popular sandwich is grilled cheese, with a 79% likeability rating. Turkey and grilled chicken come next at 75%, followed by BLT and ham at 69%.

What are classic deli sandwiches?

A deli sandwich is typically made with quality meats, cheeses, and fresh bread. Classics include the Reuben, pastrami on rye, club sandwich, Italian sub, and the turkey and swiss.

What is the oldest sandwich?

The oldest known sandwich is the Rou Jia Mo from China, dating back to the Zhou dynasty (1045–256 BC). It’s made with stewed meat stuffed into a flatbread called ‘mo’.

Types of sandwiches: 16 variations you need to try

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