Cooking Channel Fan Favorites: Summer Sammies and Burgers

By: Roberto Ferdman
Turkey Sandwich

Whether lounging at home or lazing outside in the grass, there's little better than being able to hold your lunch between two hands. Turkey or ham, portobello or beef — no matter how you stack it, sandwiches and burgers are hot commodities this time of year. From Kelsey's BLT with a twist to Nadia G.'s mondo Hawaiian burger, Cooking Channel fans haven't been shy in showing their love for summer sammies and burgers. With so many raving reviews still coming in, and tons of great tweaks and substitution ideas from all of you, we're back to shout out some more of our faves.

A classic — but always classy — pairing, Tyler Florence stuffs roast turkey, bacon and avocado in between buttered country toast, along with thin slices of creamy fontina cheese. His Roast Turkey, Avocado and Bacon Sandwich (above) is a summertime must-have, just ask this fan:

"Simply delicious...the turkey melts in your mouth and is really easy to make. I also have made this turkey and placed it in a 'Thanksgiving Sandwich,' made with cranberry sauce, homemade sage stuffing and this turkey recipe on crusty homemade bread...delicious! Beats deli turkey every day of the week!" — gmustoe_7167552 in Westford, MA

Vegetarian Burger

When a big, beefy patty may be a bit too filling, try Grilling Guru Kevin Gillespie's Portobello Burger. It may lack in meat, but not in flavor.

"I'm definitely a carnivore and always hesitate when it comes to veggie or mushroom burgers, but this recipe from Kevin Gillespie changed everything for me. This portobello turned out juicy and meaty, and was completely satisfying. His marinade with tarragon, lemon zest, parsley and chives added nuance and freshness that you don't get in your average beef burger.

I served it to a tough crowd and everyone was won over. Next time, I might try a lower-fat / lower-calorie mayo to see how that works but otherwise, SOLD!" — LJeffTheChef

Fried Green Tomato BLT

One juicy bite after another, you'll be wishing you made not one, but two, of Kelsey Nixon's Fried Green Tomato BLTs. The secret? Her homemade sweet basil mayo.

"Mother of all things essential I bow down to you. The batter for these tomatoes ROCKED! I'm using it on tomatoes and alligator tonight. Thank you for sharing this with me." — GaDixieGirl in Marietta, GA

Did she say alligator?!
Hawaiian Burger

Topped with caramelized pineapple slices, bacon, mozzarella cheese and a fried egg, Nadia G.'s massive Hawaiian Burger screams "Go big or go home!"

"Simply, the BEST burger I've ever had! The organic meat makes such a difference, and all the components make this an incredible burger! I don't think I will ever order a burger out again, and my boyfriend agrees. I now have the patties pre-made & frozen in my freezer. Definitely a special night when I make these. Don't be tempted to make the burgers larger (like i did my first time with the bacon, cheese, pineapple, chipotle mayo, lettuce & tomato). This is definitely a satisfying meal. YUM!" — MF0721 in MA

Roast Turkey Dip Sandwich

Kelsey serves her Turkey Roast Dip with the delicious drippings on the side — this sammie will never go dry. Think crunchy french baguette, fall-apart tender turkey and the mother of all melted cheese, Gruyere.

"I have never made a recipe strictly for a sandwich before...Wow! It was fabulous. Thinned leftover juices with chicken broth, made a super delicious gravy, reheated leftover turkey in it, made some dressing and thought I was having Thanksgiving dinner! It's a must keep recipe." — traceyssis in Pensacola

We’re always looking to hear from you about what Cooking Channel recipes you’re cooking up, so keep on sharing.

More summer grilling and burger recipes:

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