17 Nostalgic Sandwiches Of The 1950s You’ll Want To Try

The 1950s were a golden age of comfort food, and sandwiches were a huge part of the American table—both at lunch counters and around family dinner tables. These retro creations might feel vintage, but they’re still totally crave-worthy today. From mayo-heavy favorites to quirky classics, here are 17 sandwiches from the ’50s that deserve a delicious comeback.

1. Pimento Cheese Sandwich

Imagine the tangy allure of a Southern staple. Pimento cheese sandwiches bring together creamy cheddar with diced pimentos on soft white bread. This nostalgic treat, often served crustless, was a cherished part of the 1950s lunch scene. Its vibrant orange hue and rich flavor make it a standout option.

Perfect for picnics, parties, or simple afternoon snacks, this sandwich brings back memories of sunlit kitchens and friendly gatherings. Its versatility and unique taste have kept it an enduring favorite. Try it grilled for an added twist, or stick to the classic chilled version.

Relive the heyday of comfort food with each bite.

2. Tuna Salad Sandwich

The tuna salad sandwich, a beloved classic, brings pure retro charm to any meal. Combining canned tuna, mayo, relish, and celery, this sandwich offers a satisfying, straightforward taste.

The simplicity of Wonder Bread cradling the creamy mixture makes it a timeless favorite. Its appeal lies in its ease and affordability, making it a popular choice in the 1950s.

Whether packed in a lunchbox or served at a café, the tuna salad sandwich delights with every bite. Customize with a dash of pepper or a sprinkle of onion for an extra layer of flavor.

3. Deviled Ham Sandwich

Zippy, creamy, and utterly delicious, the deviled ham sandwich is a retro delight. Finely chopped ham mixed with mustard, mayo, and spices creates a bold filling.

Traditionally spread on rye or crackers, its flavorful kick made it a lunchtime favorite. This sandwich evokes images of family gatherings and hearty meals.

Try it with pickles for a touch of acidity or lettuce for added crunch. As a testament to its enduring appeal, the deviled ham sandwich continues to be a beloved choice for those craving something unique and nostalgic.

4. Bologna and American Cheese

The bologna and American cheese sandwich is a true lunchbox legend of the 1950s. With thin slices of bologna and bright yellow American cheese, this sandwich provides a simple yet satisfying meal.

Eaten cold or fried, its flavor is unmistakably nostalgic. The combination of textures—soft bread, smooth cheese, and flavorful bologna—creates a harmonious bite.

Perfect for school lunches, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. Add a squirt of mustard for a tangy twist or enjoy it plain for the purest experience of this classic sandwich.

5. Egg Salad Sandwich

Hard-boiled eggs mashed with mayo and a dash of paprika make the egg salad sandwich a timeless delight. Sometimes served open-faced on toast, this sandwich brings a touch of “fancy” to the table.

Its creamy texture and subtle spice create a comforting bite. Often topped with lettuce or a sprinkle of chives, it was a highlight of the 1950s luncheon menu.

Easy to make and delightful to eat, the egg salad sandwich remains a go-to for those seeking a nostalgic meal with a hint of elegance. A quintessential example of mid-century dining.

6. Olive and Cream Cheese

Tangy and unique, the olive and cream cheese sandwich is a standout from the 1950s. Chopped green olives mixed into whipped cream cheese create a flavorful spread that delights the palate.

Served thick on white or pumpernickel bread, this sandwich offers a taste of retro sophistication. Perfect for cocktail parties or afternoon snacks, its distinctive flavor profile sets it apart.

Relish in its bold and creamy texture, and experience a piece of culinary history. This sandwich is a testament to the adventurous spirit of mid-century American cuisine.

7. Sloppy Joe

Messy yet undeniably satisfying, the Sloppy Joe is a staple of 1950s dining. Ground beef simmered in a sweet-tangy tomato sauce, this sandwich spills over soft buns, offering a playful eating experience.

Every bite is a burst of flavor, making it a favorite among children and adults alike. Often served at picnics or family dinners, its casual appeal is unmatched.

Pair with crispy chips or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. The Sloppy Joe’s enduring popularity proves that, sometimes, the messier the food, the better the taste.

8. Cucumber Tea Sandwiches

Sophisticated and refreshing, cucumber tea sandwiches were the darling of 1950s luncheons. Thin-sliced cucumbers layered with butter or cream cheese on crustless bread created a light yet satisfying snack.

Perfect for bridge games or women’s gatherings, these sandwiches brought an air of elegance to any occasion. Their delicate flavor and crisp texture make them an enduring choice.

Serve these at your next garden party, or enjoy them as a peaceful afternoon treat. Nothing captures the grace of mid-century entertaining quite like a plate of these exquisite sandwiches.

9. Peanut Butter and Banana

Sometimes simple is best, and the peanut butter and banana sandwich proves it. Beloved by Elvis Presley, this sweet treat combines creamy peanut butter with ripe banana slices for a delightful taste.

Grilled or enjoyed fresh, it’s a versatile snack that satisfies cravings. Add honey for a touch of sweetness or enjoy it as is for the classic experience.

This sandwich captures the carefree spirit of the 1950s and remains a favorite among nostalgic eaters. Perfect for breakfast or a late-night snack, it’s a delicious reminder of simpler times.

10. Chipped Beef on Toast (S.O.S.)

Known colloquially as S.O.S., chipped beef on toast is a 1950s diner classic. This savory, creamy dish features thinly sliced dried beef in a white sauce, served over toast.

Though not a traditional sandwich, its open-faced presentation makes it a hearty meal option. Often seen as comfort food, it was a staple in military mess halls and family kitchens alike.

The rich, flavorful gravy paired with the crunch of toast offers a satisfying contrast. Chipped beef on toast is a testament to the creativity and practicality of mid-century cuisine.

11. Meatloaf Sandwich

Turning leftovers into culinary gold, the meatloaf sandwich is a 1950s kitchen triumph. Thick slices of cold meatloaf paired with white bread and a slather of ketchup or mustard create a hearty meal.

This sandwich capitalizes on the rich flavors of home-cooked meatloaf, offering a satisfying bite every time. Perfect for picnics or packed lunches, it’s a testament to the era’s resourcefulness.

Relish in the nostalgia of Sunday dinners with each bite. The meatloaf sandwich proves that leftovers can be just as delightful as the original dish. A true classic reinvented.

12. Ham and Pickle Roll-Ups

A playful twist on traditional sandwiches, ham and pickle roll-ups bring creativity to the 1950s table. Pickle spears wrapped in ham and cream cheese, sliced into pinwheels, offer a bite-sized delight.

Often served on cocktail bread or packed in lunches, their convenience and unique flavor make them a standout. The combination of tangy pickles, savory ham, and creamy cheese offers a harmonious blend.

Serve these at parties for a fun appetizer or enjoy them as a snack. Their appeal lies in their simplicity and the satisfying crunch of the pickle within each roll.

13. Chicken Salad Sandwich

Endlessly comforting, the chicken salad sandwich is a timeless favorite. Diced chicken breast mixed with mayo and celery provides a creamy, satisfying filling.

Served on soft bread, it’s the epitome of retro lunchtime dining. Often garnished with parsley or a slice of tomato, it offers a refreshing taste.

Perfect for picnics, school lunches, or casual gatherings, its appeal lies in its simplicity and flavor. The chicken salad sandwich remains a go-to choice for those seeking a taste of nostalgia without sacrificing satisfaction.

A delightful reminder of home-cooked meals and family times.

14. Sardine Sandwich

For those with adventurous palates, the sardine sandwich is a 1950s standout. Canned sardines combined with onions and mustard offer a bold, protein-packed meal option.

Served on whole grain bread, its flavor is distinctive and unforgettable. Though not for everyone, it holds a special place in mid-century cuisine.

Pair with a side of pickles for a touch of acidity, or enjoy it as is for the full experience. The sardine sandwich is a testament to the diverse tastes of the era and remains a niche favorite among culinary explorers.

15. Grilled Cheese with Tomato Soup Dip

The ultimate comfort combo, grilled cheese with tomato soup dip epitomizes 1950s dining. White bread filled with melty cheese, grilled to perfection, creates a warm, satisfying bite.

Paired with a bowl of tomato soup, it offers a delightful dipping experience. This iconic duo is perfect for cold days or cozy evenings by the fire.

Its simplicity and warmth make it a beloved choice for all ages. Relive the nostalgia of childhood lunches and rainy-day meals with this classic pairing. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, comforting flavors.

16. Roast Beef and Horseradish

Elevate your sandwich game with roast beef and horseradish, a 1950s dinner party favorite. Thin-sliced roast beef layered with creamy horseradish sauce and crisp lettuce creates a sophisticated taste.

Served on a Kaiser roll, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. This sandwich embodies the elegance of mid-century dining while delivering a satisfying meal.

Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a special lunch, its bold flavors and refined presentation make it unforgettable. The roast beef and horseradish sandwich stands as a testament to the era’s culinary creativity.

17. Bacon, Lettuce & Tomato (BLT)

Crispy bacon, iceberg lettuce, and juicy tomatoes—no sandwich captures the essence of freshness like the BLT. Layered between mayo-slathered bread, it’s a 1950s icon that’s still a favorite today.

The combination of textures and flavors offers a refreshing and satisfying bite. Ideal for picnics, lunches, or casual dinners, the BLT remains a beloved classic.

Its enduring popularity speaks to its simple, yet perfect, construction. With each bite, relive an era where simple, fresh ingredients came together to create timeless culinary magic.