Sandwiches Without Bread

There was a time when I needed sandwiches without bread because I was trying to reduce my carbs and I looove sandwiches. If you're keto, then some of these options will also appeal to you if you like sandwiches and need to limit or eliminate bread from your diet.

You will want to choose the options that substitute veggies instead of flour products. If you're just someone who wants to try something a little different, a waffle or a cracker will certainly do for a change of pace.

Sandwiches Without Bread

So, what types of "bread" do you use when you're making a sandwich with no bread? I did a little search for sandwiches without bread and found a book with the same name - more about that later - and several creative recipes that use various veggies instead of bread to make sandwiches.

There were also several different bread alternatives for making sandwiches without bread. Here is a list, or rather two lists, for your delicious no bread sandwiches.

No Flour "Breads"

• Portabello Mushroom caps
• Tator tots (flattened)
• Hash browns
• Iceburg or Romaine lettuce leaves
• Ham or other lunchmeat slices
• Egg rounds or a plain omelet
• Eggplant slices (fried)
• Plantain slices (fried)
• Cauliflower rice "bread slices"
• Steamed cabbage leaves
• Half a green pepper (open face sandwich)
• Half a cucumber (open face)
• Grilled chicken pattie
• Thin hamburger pattie

I know the last 4 may be questionable when it comes to actual sandwich bread substitutes, however, I have seen a few recipes floating around the internet that use them as the "bread" for their sandwich. So even if you wouldn't go that route, I guess for some, it's an actual option. 

The next list is a selection of bread alternatives. They can be made using gluten free flours, vegetarian, or vegan flours. By varying the recipe, you can make your own flours, or by purchasing already made products that are gluten free or vegan.

Alternate Breads

• Crackers
• Waffles
• Pancakes
• Crepes
• Thin pizza crust
• Biscuits
• Pound cake 
• Donuts

I guess technically you could say that most of these are considered "bread" type products. However, if you're tired of using plain old slices of bread, why not change it up a little. Kids especially would love eating a peanut butter and jelly waffle sandwich. And if you're an adult who's a kid at heart, a waffle sausage sandwich might just hit the spot!

Sandwiches Without Bread Recipes

Okay, now for the good part. How about some recipes using some of these breadless options. Okay well, here are a few sandwiches without bread that I found in my search, some of which I've tried myself.

The Super Sandwich

This sandwich uses potato nuggets as a bread alternative which sounds so yummy. I love fried potatoes and what are Tator tots? Fried potatoes of course. You start out with a 16 oz bag of them, which you evenly distribute about half on a preheated waffle iron. Close it and let it cook until done and looks like a slice of bread. Repeat for the rest of the package to make two slices. 

Once you've made your "bread" slices, you can add whatever you like. The recipe from the site Allrecipes adds slices of ham and turkey, a tomato slice, potato chips...., 4 slices of bacon, a cheese slice, and pickle chips. Now the chips I think are a bit much, however, to each his own. My version would have the turkey, cheese, spinach, and a few pickles and I'm good, so you do you.

The Super Sandwich

The Super Sandwich (link opens a new window) ingredients are here, and you can use the link to find the full recipe along with the instructions.

• 16 oz bag of frozen potato nuggets
• 2 slices deli ham
• 2 slices deli turkey
• 1 tomato slice
• 10 potato chips
• 4 slices bacon, cooked
• 1 slice Swiss cheese
• 4 pickle slices

Use the link above if you'd like to try out this sandwich. It is definitely not a low-fat sandwich if you're looking for that.  The recipe, however, is full of tasty ingredients if you are craving a sandwich that will give your mouth a burst of flavors.

Personally, I'll stick to my version if I ever choose to make the super sandwich. And most likely I'd start with a couple of hash browns instead of the potato nuggets.

Recipe Ideas for Sandwiches Without Bread

Here’s a list of creative sandwich recipe ideas that skip the bread but still deliver on flavor:

1. Lettuce Wrap Sandwich  

• Ingredients: Large lettuce leaves (like romaine or iceberg), turkey slices, avocado, tomato, cheese, and mayonnaise or mustard.  
• Description: Use the lettuce leaves as a wrap to hold all the fillings together.

2. Cucumber Sub Sandwich  

• Ingredients: Cucumber (halved and hollowed out), deli meats, cream cheese, shredded carrots, and sprouts.  
• Description: The cucumber acts as a crunchy, refreshing substitute for bread.

3. Portobello Mushroom Sandwich  

• Ingredients: Grilled portobello mushroom caps, roasted red peppers, mozzarella cheese, spinach, and pesto.  
• Description: The mushroom caps serve as the "bun" for this hearty sandwich.

4. Sweet Potato Sliders  

• Ingredients: Roasted sweet potato slices, pulled pork, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce.  
• Description: Sweet potato rounds replace the bread for a sweet and savory combo.

5. Tomato Stack Sandwich  

• Ingredients: Thick tomato slices, fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, balsamic glaze, and olive oil.  
• Description: Layer the ingredients between tomato slices for a Caprese-inspired sandwich.

6. Zucchini Roll-Ups  

• Ingredients: Thinly sliced zucchini, hummus, roasted vegetables, and feta cheese.  
• Description: Roll the zucchini slices around the fillings for a bite-sized sandwich alternative.

7. Eggplant Sandwich  

• Ingredients: Grilled eggplant slices, goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula.  
• Description: Eggplant slices act as the base for this Mediterranean-inspired sandwich.

8. Apple and Peanut Butter Sandwich  

• Ingredients: Apple slices, peanut butter, granola, and raisins.  
• Description: Use apple slices as the "bread" for a sweet and crunchy treat.

9. Cauliflower Grilled Cheese  

• Ingredients: Cauliflower "bread" (made from riced cauliflower, eggs, and cheese), cheddar cheese, and butter.  
• Description: A low carb take on the classic grilled cheese sandwich.

10. Avocado Boat Sandwich  

•  Ingredients: Halved avocado, tuna salad or chicken salad, and diced vegetables.  
•  Description: The avocado halves serve as a creamy and nutritious base.

Included here are recipes for the first three sandwiches without bread:

Lettuce Wrap Sandwich

Ingredients:  

• 6 large lettuce leaves (romaine or iceberg)  
• 4 slices of turkey  
• ½ avocado, sliced  
• 1 tomato, sliced  
• 2 slices of your favorite cheese  
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise or mustard (or both)

Instructions:  

1. Lay the lettuce leaves flat, overlapping two leaves to create a sturdy base.  

2. Spread mayonnaise or mustard evenly across the lettuce.  

3. Layer the turkey, avocado slices, tomato slices, and cheese on top of the lettuce.  

4. Roll the lettuce tightly around the fillings, folding in the sides as you go to create a secure wrap.  

5. Slice in half and enjoy a fresh, low-carb sandwich!

Cucumber Sub Sandwich  

Ingredients:  

• 1 large cucumber (halved and hollowed out)  
• 6 slices of deli meats (turkey, ham, or roast beef)  
• 2 tbsp cream cheese  
• ¼ cup shredded carrots  
• ¼ cup sprouts

Instructions:  

1. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to scoop out the seeds, creating a hollow center.  

2. Spread cream cheese inside each cucumber half.  

3. Layer the deli meats, shredded carrots, and sprouts inside the hollow cucumber.  

4. Press the two cucumber halves together to form a "sub."  

5. Slice into smaller pieces if desired or serve whole!

Portobello Mushroom Sandwich  

Ingredients:  

• 2 large portobello mushroom caps  
• 1 roasted red pepper, sliced  
• 2 slices mozzarella cheese  
• 1 cup fresh spinach  
• 2 tbsp pesto  

Instructions:  

1. Preheat a grill or skillet to medium heat. Clean and remove the stems from the portobello mushrooms.  

2. Lightly brush the mushroom caps with olive oil and grill them for 3-4 minutes on each side until tender.  

3. Spread 1 tbsp of pesto on the inside of each mushroom cap.  

4. On one mushroom cap, layer the roasted red pepper slices, spinach, and mozzarella cheese.  

5. Top with the second mushroom cap to form a sandwich.  

6. Serve warm, and enjoy this hearty, bread-free sandwich!

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