The Best Condiments for Your Turkey Sandwich

Nothing beats a simple, deli turkey sandwich. Try this easy 5-minute sandwich or one of our five different variations!

The possibilities are endless when it comes to turkey sandwiches. A platter of turkey sandwiches are the ultimate comfort food. They can be simple with just turkey and cheese, or they can be dressed up with all sorts of delicious flavor combinations.

A turkey sandwich can be a simple yet satisfying meal But adding the right condiments takes it to the next level! Condiments add flavor, moisture, creaminess, and texture to transform your basic turkey sandwich into something special.

So what are the best condiments to elevate your turkey sandwich? There are plenty of options to suit different tastes and preferences. Here are some of our top picks:

Mayo

Mayonnaise is a classic condiment for turkey sandwiches. It adds richness, tanginess, and creaminess. Regular mayo works well, but flavored mayos can also add extra kick. Try garlic mayo, chipotle mayo, or lemon-dill mayo on your turkey sandwich.

Mayo is likely already in your fridge waiting to upgrade your turkey sandwich! It’s a quick and easy option that most people enjoy. Just spread a thin layer on the bread before building the rest of your sandwich.

Mustard

Mustard is another go-to turkey sandwich condiment. Yellow mustard Dijon mustard, honey mustard – take your pick! The tangy zip of mustard perfectly complements the mild flavor of turkey.

Mustard adds moisture without making the bread soggy. It has less fat than mayo, making it a lighter option. Mustard’s acidic qualities also help cut through the richness of the turkey and cheese.

Spread mustard on both slices of bread or just one side – either way, it makes a great addition to any turkey sandwich.

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce isn’t just for Thanksgiving! Adding a dollop of cranberry sauce to your turkey sandwich brings a delicious sweet and tart flavor.

The cranberry sauce also adds moisture and a fun fruity twist. You can use jellied cranberry sauce or whole berry cranberry sauce. And feel free to mix it with mayo or mustard to create a cranberry spread.

Pesto

Pesto may not be the first condiment that comes to mind for a turkey sandwich, but it’s definitely worth trying. The herby green pesto nicely complements the turkey.

Pesto packs a flavor punch from garlic, basil, olive oil, pine nuts and Parmesan cheese. Spread it on one or both slices of bread for a more interesting sandwich.

Hummus

Hummus makes a healthy, protein-packed alternative to mayo or mustard. It has a creamy texture and versatility similar to those condiments.

The nutty flavor of hummus pairs wonderfully with turkey. You can even combine hummus with mustard or cranberry sauce to create a custom spread. Hummus adds creaminess without all the fat and calories of mayo.

Guacamole

For an extra creamy and flavorful condiment, look no further than guacamole! The cool, fresh avocado flavor is fantastic with turkey.

Making your own guacamole allows you to control the texture, spiciness and flavor. Add as little or as much onion, garlic, jalapeño, cilantro and lime juice as you like. Store bought guacamole works too – just avoid overly watery varieties.

Relish

Relish is an underrated turkey sandwich condiment. The sweet pickle flavor adds welcome tanginess and crunch. Relish contains pickles, onions, bell peppers and spices blended into a spreadable consistency.

Try a sweeter bread and butter pickle relish, or an old fashioned dill relish. Relish pairs nicely with mustard and mayo too. Add a spoonful to your favorite condiment combo.

BBQ Sauce

BBQ sauce imparts sweet, tangy and smoky flavors to a turkey sandwich. It also adds moisture and balances the turkey’s mild flavor.

You can use a bold, tomato-based Kansas City style barbecue sauce, or a more subtle Carolina style vinegar-based sauce – it depends on your preference. BBQ turkey sandwiches are so tasty!

Chili Sauce

For a change of pace, use chili sauce on your sandwich. Chili sauce is a ketchup-based condiment with a blend of spicy seasonings. It brings sweetness along with a mild kick.

Drizzle chili sauce directly onto the turkey before topping it with cheese and veggies. Or mix it with mayo or mustard first. The possibilities are endless for customizing spice level and flavor.

Olive Tapenade

Tapenade is an olive spread that can add some Mediterranean flair to your sandwich. Tapenade is made from olives, capers, anchovies, olive oil, garlic and herbs.

The briny olive flavor pairs excellently with turkey. Try a basil or sun-dried tomato tapenade for extra dimension. Just a small amount gives big olive taste.

Horseradish Sauce

Horseradish has a uniquely pungent, spicy flavor. When blended into a creamy sauce, it makes a lively condiment for turkey sandwiches.

The spicy horseradish heat cuts through the richness of the turkey. Combine prepared horseradish with mayo, sour cream or Greek yogurt to tone down the intensity. Add a splash of lemon juice too.

Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing is commonly used on salads, but it also makes a tasty sandwich spread. The cooling, herbaceous flavor complements turkey.

Ranch contains mayo, sour cream, onion, garlic, parsley, dill and oregano. The combo of tangy, creamy and zesty flavors enhances turkey sandwiches, especially when paired with cheese and veggies.

Blue Cheese Dressing

For an extra punch of flavor, try zesty blue cheese dressing on your sandwich. Blue cheese crumbles add salty, funky flavor that goes well with turkey.

The creamy base contains mayo, sour cream, yogurt or buttermilk. Garlic, onion, herbs and vinegar are also commonly added. The bold blue cheese flavor stands up to the turkey.

Coleslaw

Coleslaw might seem unconventional, but it can make an awesome turkey sandwich topping. The crunchy cabbage and carrot mix adds refreshing flavor and texture.

Look for coleslaw made without too much mayo, or try a vinegar-based recipe. Pair it with Swiss cheese and Russian dressing for a tasty Reuben-inspired sandwich. The options are endless!

Sauerkraut

Sauerkraut is fermented cabbage that brings a pleasant sour flavor. Its crunchy texture and tangy bite complement turkey’s mild flavor.

Sauerkraut contains probiotics and vitamin C too. Try it on a turkey Reuben with Russian dressing and Swiss. Or just add some directly to your sandwich for a flavor kick.

Bell Pepper Strips

For extra crunch and freshness, don’t overlook raw bell pepper strips! Peppers come in a rainbow of colors – try red, yellow, orange or green.

The crisp peppers have a subtly sweet flavor that pairs well with turkey. They also add great texture alongside sauces and soft fillings.

Sliced Cucumber

Cucumber is another solid choice for fresh flavor and crunch. Cucumber has a very mild taste that refreshes turkey sandwiches.

English cucumbers are ideal since they have fewer seeds. Simply rinse, peel if desired, and slice thinly before layering onto your sandwich.

Tomato

Fresh tomato is a turkey sandwich staple for good reason. When sliced, tomatoes add juiciness, texture and flavorful acidity.

Choose ripe tomatoes for the best sweetness and tang. Beefsteak, heirloom and cherry tomatoes work well. Add tomato slices or diced bits – both options taste great!

Spinach

Don’t underestimate spinach as a tasty turkey sandwich addition! Spinach has a mild, earthy flavor that complements turkey.

Make sure to pat the spinach dry before adding it to your sandwich. The sturdy leaf holds up well and doesn’t get soggy. Baby spinach works nicely for its tender texture.

Spring Mix Greens

Take your sandwich up a notch with a layer of spring mix greens. This blend of baby greens adds delicate flavor and texture.

Spring mix typically contains spinach, arugula, lettuce and other greens. The variety of textures and mild flavors enhance turkey sandwiches. Just pat dry before using.

Sliced Apple

For a touch of sweetness, add thin apple slices to your sandwich. Apples provide a juicy crunch and pleasant tartness.

Good apple choices include Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji, or Braeburn. The apple flavors complement cheese and various condiments too.

Dried Cranberries

Dried cranberries infuse a tart, fruity flavor. Their chewy texture adds nice contrast alongside the turkey and bread.

Look for dried cranberries with no added sugar. Their natural tartness balances well with turkey’s savory flavor. Add them by the handful for a festive twist.

Candied Pecans

For extra crunch and flavor, candied pecans are a fun addition. Toss pecan halves with a honey syrup, sugar or maple syrup before roasting until crispy.

The sweet, toasted pecans pair wonderfully with turkey. They add texture and nutty richness. Add them sparingly – a little goes a long way

what is a good condiment for a turkey sandwich

Tip: Get Your Turkey From The Deli

Getting turkey from the deli doesn’t cost much more than getting it pre-packaged, and it tastes SO MUCH BETTER. You can choose the thickness of your slices (we like it sliced extra thin) and you can choose the EXACT amount you want. You can also usually choose from a wide variety of flavors. Most deli-counters will let you try before you buy so try them all and pick your favorite! There is no downside here!

Turkey Sandwich Topping and Condiment Ideas:

  • Bacon
  • Avocado
  • Tomato
  • Lettuce
  • Pickles
  • Banana peppers
  • Sliced red onion
  • Sliced cucumber
  • Oil & red wine vinegar
  • Pesto
  • Brown or dijon mustard
  • Cranberry sauce
  • Brie cheese
  • Plain Greek Yogurt in place of mayo
  • Fig jam & apples (like this recipe, trust me, SO GOOD)

what is a good condiment for a turkey sandwich

Fast and Easy Turkey Sandwich for Lunch | Recipe by Lounging with Lenny

FAQ

What condiments go well with turkey sandwiches?

Mayo is a simple and apt pairing when the sandwich consists of richly flavored dark meat. Pat Eby takes it up a notch, though, mixing equal parts of Duke’s with a country Dijon. “Grey Poupon is nice but not mandatory—but Duke’s is sacred,” she says.

Does mustard go with turkey sandwiches?

What kind of mustard to use on a turkey sandwich. Use your favorite mustard. I use a chipotle mustard, sometimes horseradish mustard or stone ground. If you wanted to throw on some slices of red onion, you’re really smart and should probably be a scientist.

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