Fried Bologna Sandwiches

This Fried Bologna Sandwich is an elevated take on a nostalgic lunchroom classic. By “scoring” the bologna with an X, you allow the meat to stay flat in the pan rather than curling into a dome, ensuring maximum surface contact for that perfect, smoky char. The warmth of the caramelized bologna slightly melts the cheddar against the cool, juicy tomato for a satisfying contrast in every bite.

Fried Bologna Sandwiches

Ingredients:

How To Make Fried Bologna Sandwiches:

Step 1: Prep the Bread Base: Lay out two slices of bread and spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise onto each. Place a thick slice of tomato on top of the mayo, followed by a slice of cheddar cheese.

Step 2: Prepare the Bologna: Using a knife, cut a small X through the center of each bologna slice. This prevents the meat from “doming” or puffing up in the middle while it fries, allowing it to brown evenly.

Step 3: Fry to Caramelize: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and coat it well with cooking spray. Place the bologna slices in the pan. Fry for 3/4 minutes per side until they are caramelized, slightly charred, and the edges are crisp.

Step 4: Assemble: Remove the hot bologna from the skillet and layer three slices onto each prepared sandwich base (right on top of the cheese). The heat from the meat will help soften the cheese and warm the tomato.

Step 5: Serve: Top with the remaining two slices of bread. You can serve them as-is, or for an extra crunch, lightly toast the assembled sandwich in the skillet for 1 minute per side.