Open-Face Italian Turkey Sandwiches with Mozzarella
These hearty open-face sandwiches feature layers of oven-roasted turkey, tangy Italian olive salad, and melted mozzarella cheese on golden French bread. The combination of savory turkey, briny olives, and mild banana peppers creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or casual dinner. The French bread base bakes to a crispy exterior while staying tender inside, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures and Mediterranean-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated Pillsbury Original French Bread, 11 oz
- 1 package deli-style sliced oven-roasted turkey breast, 9 ozsliced ham or salami1:1
different protein option
- ½ cup Italian olive salad, well drained from jartapenade or chopped olives with roasted peppers1:1
similar Mediterranean flavor
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil leaves
- 10 mild banana pepper rings, drained
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese, 1 oz each
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven and spray large cookie sheet with cooking spray
- 2
Remove dough from can and place on cookie sheet
- 3
Cut dough lengthwise down center to within half inch from bottom of loaf
- 4
Press dough into rectangle
- 5
Layer half of the turkey over dough
- 6
Top with olive salad, basil leaves, pepper rings, remaining turkey and cheese slices
- 7
Bake until edges are light golden brown
- 8
Cut crosswise into sandwiches
Tips
Drain the olive salad thoroughly to prevent soggy bread during baking.
Press the dough firmly into rectangle shape for even cooking and easier slicing.
Good to Know
Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes.
Assemble up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Serve warm immediately after baking for best texture.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining olive salad to avoid soggy bread
Don't overbake or edges will become too crispy
Substitutions
similar Mediterranean flavor
different protein option
FAQ
Can I use different bread?
Yes, but refrigerated French bread dough provides the best base that bakes evenly and holds toppings well without becoming soggy.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes to restore crispness.
Can I freeze these sandwiches?
Not recommended as the bread texture becomes soggy when thawed and the vegetables lose their crisp texture.