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Crispy Fried Bologna Sandwich

This classic fried bologna sandwich features thick slices of smoky bologna cooked until crispy and caramelized in a cast-iron skillet. Served on toasted bread with your choice of condiments, pickles, and cheese, it offers a satisfying combination of crunchy, smoky, and cheesy textures in every bite. Perfect for a quick, nostalgic comfort meal with bold flavors.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices bologna thick slices, smoked preferred
  • 4 slices white bread thick sliced
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise or mustard your choice
  • 4 pickles pickles bright, vinegary slices
  • 2 slice cheese American or cheddar, optional
  • 1 tbsp oil or butter for frying

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula
  • Toaster or pan
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil or butter until melted and hot, feeling warm to the touch but not smoking.
  2. Place the slices of bologna flat in the skillet, ensuring they’re not overlapping, and hear a gentle sizzle as they hit the hot fat.
  3. Cook the bologna for 2-3 minutes, watching the edges turn golden and crispy, and the slices start to curl slightly.
  4. Flip each slice carefully with a spatula and cook for another 2-3 minutes until both sides are deeply golden and caramelized, filling the air with a smoky aroma.
  5. While the bologna cooks, toast the bread slices until just golden and slightly crunchy, either in a toaster or in a dry skillet.
  6. Spread mayonnaise or mustard evenly onto each slice of toasted bread, creating a flavorful base for your sandwich.
  7. Layer the crispy bologna slices onto one piece of bread, stacking them neatly for a hearty bite.
  8. Add slices of pickles and cheese on top of the bologna if using, then cover with the second piece of bread to complete the sandwich.
  9. Gently press down on the sandwich to help everything meld together, then cut in half with a knife for easy serving.
  10. Serve the sandwich warm, with crispy edges and melted cheese, and enjoy the satisfying crunch and smoky flavor.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a dash of hot sauce or a slice of tomato. Make sure to cook the bologna on medium heat to prevent burning, and let the meat rest for a minute after frying to maintain its crispiness.