Schlotzsky’s Copycat Recipe: Make Delicious Homemade Sandwiches in Easy Steps

I’ve always been a fan of Schlotzsky’s—the perfect blend of savory meats, fresh toppings, and that signature tangy sauce all wrapped in their deliciously soft bread. But craving one when you can’t make it to the store? I felt the same way.

After some experimenting, I finally cracked the code with this copycat recipe. It captures all the flavors I love and lets me enjoy my favorite sandwiches anytime I want. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to Schlotzsky’s, you’ll find this recipe easy and satisfying.

Ingredients

To recreate Schlotzsky’s beloved sandwich at home, gather the following ingredients for the dough, filling, and sauce.

For the Dough

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups warm water

For the Filling

• 1/2 pound deli-sliced ham
• 1/2 pound deli-sliced salami
• 1/2 pound provolone cheese, sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious copycat Schlotzsky’s sandwich. Follow these steps to recreate the perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Prepare the Dough

I begin by combining the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, I dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. Once the yeast is activated, I add the sugar and salt to the dry mixture. Gradually, I pour in the yeast mixture and vegetable oil, stirring continuously until a dough forms. I then transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for approximately 8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

After kneading, I place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, covering it with a damp cloth to retain moisture. I let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This step is crucial for developing the dough’s texture and ensuring it has the perfect chewiness characteristic of Schlotzsky’s bread.

Cook the Bread

Once the dough has risen, I punch it down to release the air and divide it into equal portions, shaping each into a circle about 4 inches in diameter. I preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil. I cook each dough circle for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The result is a soft, flavorful bread that serves as the perfect base for the sandwich fillings.

Prepare the Filling

While the bread is cooking, I arrange the deli-sliced ham and salami on a cutting board. I layer the provolone cheese evenly over the meats, ensuring each sandwich will have a balanced distribution of flavors. I like to use about 2 slices of ham, 2 slices of salami, and 2 slices of provolone cheese per sandwich, but you can adjust the quantities to your preference.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, I whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and a blend of spices including garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of sugar. This tangy and creamy sauce adds the signature kick to the sandwich. I taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, ensuring it complements the savory fillings perfectly.

Assemble the Sandwich

To assemble the sandwich, I spread a generous layer of the prepared sauce on one side of each bread circle. I then add the layered meats and cheese to one half of the bread, folding the other half over the fillings. I press gently to secure the sandwich and place it back on the skillet for an additional minute on each side to melt the cheese and meld the flavors together. Once the sandwich is heated through and the cheese is gooey, I remove it from the skillet, slice it in half, and serve immediately.

Tools and Equipment

To master Schlotzsky’s copycat recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need in your kitchen arsenal:

• Mixing Bowls

Essential for combining dough ingredients and preparing fillings.

• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ensure precise measurements for both the dough and sauce.

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer

Makes kneading the dough effortless and consistent.

• Skillet or Griddle

A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even cooking and a golden-brown crust.

• Whisk

Perfect for blending the tangy sauce smoothly without lumps.

• Spatula

Ideal for flipping the dough and assembling the sandwich with ease.

• Knife and Cutting Board

Necessary for slicing meats, cheese, and prepping fresh toppings.

• Rolling Pin

Helps in rolling out the dough to the perfect thickness for the sandwich.

• Meat Thermometer

Optional but useful for ensuring cooked meats reach safe temperatures.

• Cooling Rack

Allows the cooked dough to cool evenly, maintaining its texture.

Having these tools on hand will streamline the cooking process, allowing you to focus on layering flavors and achieving that signature Schlotzsky’s taste at home.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing components ahead of time can make assembling your Schlotzsky’s copycat sandwiches a breeze, especially during busy weekdays or gatherings. Here’s how I streamline the process to ensure your sandwiches are always fresh and flavorful.

Dough Preparation

1. Mix and Knead

• In a large bowl, combine 4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast, and 1 teaspoon salt.
• Gradually add 1 1/2 cups warm water and 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.

1. First Rise

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

1. Chill or Freeze

• After the first rise, punch down the dough and divide it into portions.
• For refrigeration, wrap each portion tightly in plastic and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, place portions in freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Filling Preparation

1. Slice Meats and Cheese

• Pre-slice deli ham, salami, and provolone cheese if not already sliced.
• Store in airtight containers or zip-top bags in the refrigerator for up to a week.

1. Prepare Vegetables

• Wash and slice tomatoes, pickles, and onions.
• Store separately in containers to maintain freshness.

Sauce Preparation

1. Make the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons ketchup, 1 tablespoon mustard, 1 teaspoon vinegar, and your preferred spices.

1. Store the Sauce

• Transfer the sauce to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Assembling Ahead

1. Pre-assemble Components

• Lay out your prepped dough, sliced meats, cheese, and vegetables near your cooking area.

1. Ready to Assemble

• When ready to make the sandwich, simply spread the prepared sauce on the dough, layer your meats and cheese, add vegetables, and cook as directed. This ensures a quick and seamless assembly process.

Serving Suggestions

Elevating your homemade Schlotzsky’s sandwich experience is all about pairing it with complementary sides and beverages that enhance its flavors. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this delicious creation:

Classic Sides

• Potato Chips: Add a crunchy texture with your favorite brand or make your own seasoned chips at home.
• Pickles: A tangy pickle spear or a small cup of dill pickles balances the richness of the sandwich.
• Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast.

Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: Toss mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy side.
• Caesar Salad: The creamy Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons complement the sandwich perfectly.
• Pasta Salad: A zesty pasta salad with vegetables and Italian dressing adds a hearty side dish.

Hearty Options

• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions grilled to perfection.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory pairing.
• Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings bring an extra layer of flavor and crunch.

Beverage Pairings

• Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, pairs well with the savory sandwich.
• Lemonade: Classic lemonade adds a sweet and tangy touch to your meal.
• Craft Beer: For an adult twist, a light lager or pilsner complements the flavors without overpowering them.
• Sparkling Water: Keep it light and bubbly with your favorite sparkling water, perhaps flavored with a splash of fruit juice.

Gourmet Additions

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and a modern twist to the traditional sandwich.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or cilantro for an herby freshness that brightens each bite.
• Extra Cheese: Melt a slice of Swiss or cheddar cheese for an indulgent upgrade.

Presentation Tips

• Cut Diagonally: Enhance the visual appeal by cutting your sandwich diagonally.
• Use a Wooden Board: Serve your meal on a rustic wooden board with small bowls for sides and condiments.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprig of parsley or a dusting of paprika can make your plate look as good as it tastes.

Markdown Table of Popular Side Pairings

Experiment with these serving suggestions to find your perfect combination. Whether you prefer classic sides or gourmet additions, these pairings will make your Schlotzsky’s copycat sandwich meal a memorable one.

Conclusion

Bringing Schlotzsky’s into my kitchen has been a delightful journey There’s something special about crafting each sandwich and enjoying those fresh flavors at home I love how easy it is to tweak the ingredients to match my taste I hope you’ll try this copycat recipe and find as much joy in making and eating it as I do Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings and make it your own Happy sandwich-making!