12 Sandwiches So Hearty, They Taste Like a Full-On Dinner
When a simple sandwich just won’t cut it, these hearty creations step up to the plate. Packed with bold flavors, generous fillings, and serious dinner-worthy appeal, these recipes go way beyond your average lunch. Whether you’re craving melty meats, stacked veggies, or saucy combos, these sandwiches are satisfying enough to replace a full meal. Get ready to sink your teeth into 12 handheld dinners you’ll want on repeat.
Italian Grinder Sandwich (TikTok Salad Sandwich)

This Italian Grinder Sandwich was a TikTok sensation thanks to the tossed salad topping made with chopped lettuce and pepperoncini in a tangy dressing. Piled high with your favorite Italian lunch meats and melted cheese on a crust roll, this is one heck of a sandwich. It’s no surprise that it caught the attention of millions and gets rave reviews!
Traditional Reuben Sandwich
The Traditional Reuben Sandwich – A pile of corned beef, slices of Swiss cheese, Frank’s Kraut and Thousand Island dressing grilled between two slices of your favorite rye bread until the cheese is perfect and melty. What more could anyone really ask for in a sandwich? It’s the whole package.
Roasted Vegetable Grilled Cheese Sandwich
This Roasted Vegetable Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the ultimate sandwich made with two kinds of cheese, oven-roasted veggies & golden buttery sourdough bread.
Crockpot Shredded Chicken Sandwiches
The filling for these mouthwatering BBQ Shredded Chicken Sandwiches simmers all day long in the slow cooker, rewarding you with tender, juicy meat perfect for dinner! Top your chicken with melted cheese, caramelized onions, and cilantro for a top-tier sandwich you won’t forget anytime soon!
Easy French Dip Sandwich
Don’t you just love good french dip recipes? I have to say this Easy French Dip Sandwich is one of the best roast beef sandwiches I have made to date. Perfect for making on the spot, this delicious sandwich only takes 10 minutes to make!
Vegan Pastrami
My vegan pastrami is a super tasty “meat” that’s easy to prepare and even more delicious to eat! Made from “beef” seitan dough, it’s seasoned, baked, and simmered in a rich broth to create the ultimate vegan lunch meat recipe. It’s ideal for anyone looking to make a plant-based version of the classic pastrami sandwich! Just pile it between slices of your favorite bread for a hearty sandwich that’s perfect for a filling lunch or a light dinner.
Crispy Chicken Sandwich
If you crave a Chick-Fil-A original chicken sandwich but feel inspired to make your own, stick around to learn how to fry the perfect Crispy Chicken Sandwich in a dutch oven!
Slow Cooker Italian Beef Sandwich Recipe
This slow cooker Italian beef sandwich recipe yields melt-in-your-mouth tender, juicy, and flavorful meat just like what you’d get in Chicago! It’s the perfect meal for game night, tailgating, potlucks, or parties.
Banh Mi Sandwich with Instant Pot Short Ribs and Quick Pickled Slaw
This Banh Mi Sandwich with Instant Pot Short Ribs and Quick Pickled Slaw is the perfect combination of tender meat and zesty fresh, flavorful slaw.
Baked Spaghetti Sandwiches
Spaghetti Sandwich is a carb-lovers dream come true! These sandwiches are so easy to make and are a great way to use leftover spaghetti! Feel free to add meatballs if you’d like, but no matter what add plenty of cheese! I assemble these sandwiches ahead of time and bake them when we’re ready to eat!
Leftover Prime Rib Sandwich
This leftover prime rib sandwich layers tender pieces of shaved prime rib, baby arugula, red onion slices, and a rich horseradish cream sauce! These big, beefy sandwiches are a family favorite leftover meal after the holidays! It’s a flavor-packed combination that everyone is sure to love!
Steak Sandwiches with Cowboy Butter
Steak sandwiches with cowboy butter take one of my favorite foods, steak on the grill, and makes it into a finger food. Thick cut bread slathered with zesty garlic aioli, arugula, sun dried tomatoes and melty provolone cheese make this an extraordinary steak sandwich.