A sub sandwich from a fast-food chain can be a convenient lunch. However, many chains use processed, lower-quality meats to keep costs low. You can easily make a much more delicious and higher-quality sub at home. The secret is to start with a premium, top-tier deli meat from the grocery store. These brands use whole cuts of meat and authentic preparation methods. They deliver a level of flavor that a restaurant sub simply cannot match.

1. Boar’s Head Ovengold Turkey
This is a classic choice for a reason. The Boar’s Head brand is famous for its commitment to using simple ingredients. Their Ovengold Turkey Breast is made from a whole, oven-roasted turkey. It has a real, authentic texture. It is not a spongy, pressed turkey loaf like those found in many sub shops.
2. Dietz & Watson London Broil Roast Beef
Dietz is a premium roast beef made from a real cut of beef. It is then seasoned and roasted to a perfect medium-rare. The meat tastes like actual leftover roast beef because it is not a processed, formed product. Its quality makes it a far superior choice for a homemade sandwich.
3. Applegate Natural Black Forest Ham
For those who are looking for a “clean label” option, Applegate is a top choice. The company specializes in producing organic and natural deli meats. Their ham is raised humanely without antibiotics. It has a simple, clean flavor that is not overly salty or artificial.
4. Columbus Craft Meats Italian Dry Salami
The Columbus brand is a master of the artisanal, Italian-style salumi. Their products are made using traditional, old-world techniques. Their Italian Dry Salami is a classic and a fan favorite. It provides the perfect, high-quality base for a classic, Italian-style sub sandwich that will rival any sandwich shop.
5. Kretschmar Off-the-Bone Hams
Kretschmar is another premium deli brand. It is known for its unique smoking processes. They use real hardwoods to impart a special flavor to their meats. Their “Off-the-Bone” hams, for example, are renowned for their delicious, smoky taste. This is very different from the water-added ham products from a fast-food chain.
6. Thumann’s DeLuxe Ham
Thumann’s is a regional deli brand that is very popular in the Northeast. The company has built its reputation on the claim that its products are lower in salt than many of the other leading brands. It is known for its high quality and great flavor. It is another brand that prides itself on not using fillers.
7. Private Selection (Kroger) Black Forest Ham
Many store brands now have a premium tier. Kroger’s “Private Selection” line is a great example. Their Black Forest Ham is often rated very highly. It competes directly with the big names in quality and taste. This makes it a great value for a high-quality sandwich.
The Home Sub Advantage
The key to a truly great sub sandwich is the quality of the meat. A fast-food restaurant must often use cheaper, more processed products to stay profitable. When you make a sandwich at home with one of these premium deli brands, you are getting a much more authentic and flavorful product. You have complete control over the ingredients. This allows you to build a sub that is not just better, but also better for you.
What is your favorite brand of deli meat for a homemade sub? What are your other “secret” ingredients for making the perfect sandwich? Let us know!
What to Read Next
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