Fried Bologna Sandwich
A beloved Southern comfort food, the Fried Bologna Sandwich features thick-cut bologna fried until the edges curl and crisp, topped with melted American cheese and yellow mustard on soft white bread. This humble sandwich has been a lunchbox and diner staple in Arkansas for generations.
Equipment Needed
Instructions
Score the bologna: Using a sharp knife, make 4 small cuts around the edge of each bologna slice, evenly spaced like a plus sign. This prevents the bologna from puffing up in the center and helps it cook flat with crispy curled edges.
Heat the skillet: Place a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add about half the butter and let it melt and begin to sizzle.
Fry the bologna: Add bologna slices to the hot skillet in a single layer. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until the edges curl up and turn golden brown with some caramelization. Work in batches if needed.
Melt the cheese: During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on top of the bologna in the pan. Cover briefly with a lid to help the cheese melt.
Toast the bread (optional): For extra indulgence, butter the bread slices and toast them lightly in the same skillet until golden brown.
Prepare the bread: Spread yellow mustard generously on one slice of bread. If using mayonnaise, spread it on the other slice.
Assemble the sandwich: Stack 2 slices of the cheese-topped fried bologna on the mustard side of the bread. The crispy edges should curl up enticingly.
Add optional toppings: If desired, add tomato slices, lettuce, pickles, or onion on top of the bologna before closing the sandwich.
Close and cut: Top with the second slice of bread. Cut diagonally for that classic diner presentation.
Serve immediately: Enjoy while hot, paired with potato chips, a pickle spear, and an ice-cold glass of sweet tea for the full Southern experience.
💡 Pro Tips & Variations
- Thick-cut is essential: Thin deli bologna won't give you the same crispy-edged, meaty experience. Ask your deli counter to slice it 1/4 inch thick.
- Use real bologna: Seek out quality bologna from a local meat market if possible. The difference in flavor is remarkable.
- Try different cheeses: While American is traditional, pepper jack or sharp cheddar add interesting variations.
- Add some heat: Spread a thin layer of hot pepper jelly on the bread for a sweet-spicy kick.
- Make it a melt: After assembling, butter the outside of the sandwich and grill it like a grilled cheese for extra decadence.
- Breakfast version: Top fried bologna with a fried egg for a classic Southern breakfast sandwich.