Unleash Your Inner Chef: Creative Recipes Inspired by the Jimmy John’s Total Package Meal Deal

Jimmy John’s, the purveyor of freaky fast sandwiches, has recently launched the “Total Package” meal deal, and it’s got everyone talking. While enjoying their classic subs is always a delight, this deal can also spark some culinary creativity. The Total Package usually includes a sandwich, chips, a pickle, and a cookie. This article explores how you can deconstruct and reimagine the elements of the Jimmy John’s Total Package to create exciting new recipes at home.

## Understanding the Total Package Components

Before diving into the recipes, let’s break down the components of a typical Jimmy John’s Total Package:

* **The Sandwich:** This is the star of the show. Jimmy John’s sandwiches are characterized by fresh ingredients, thin-sliced meats, crisp vegetables, and a simple, often mayo-based, sauce. Common fillings include turkey, ham, roast beef, salami, and provolone cheese.
* **The Chips:** Jimmy John’s offers a variety of chips, usually potato chips, providing a salty and crunchy counterpoint to the sandwich.
* **The Pickle:** A sour and tangy dill pickle is a signature element, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the sandwich and chips.
* **The Cookie:** Usually a soft and chewy chocolate chip cookie provides a sweet finish to the meal.

With these elements in mind, we can start brainstorming recipe ideas.

## Recipe Ideas Inspired by the Total Package

Here are several recipe ideas, ranging from simple variations to more elaborate creations, all inspired by the Jimmy John’s Total Package:

### 1. Deconstructed Jimmy John’s Salad

This recipe takes all the elements of a Jimmy John’s sandwich and transforms them into a refreshing and healthy salad.

**Ingredients:**

* Lettuce (Romaine or mixed greens)
* Thinly sliced turkey, ham, or roast beef (about 4 oz)
* Provolone cheese, cubed or shredded (about 2 oz)
* Tomato, diced
* Cucumber, diced
* Red onion, thinly sliced
* Sprouts (optional)
* Mayonnaise-based dressing (recipe below)
* Crumbled potato chips (optional, for added crunch)
* Dill pickle, chopped (optional)

**Mayonnaise-Based Dressing:**

* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 1 tablespoon white vinegar
* 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon sugar
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, white vinegar, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
2. **Assemble the salad:** In a large bowl, combine lettuce, sliced meat, cheese, tomato, cucumber, and red onion.
3. **Add toppings:** Top with sprouts (if using) and crumbled potato chips (if using).
4. **Dress the salad:** Drizzle the mayonnaise-based dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. **Garnish:** Serve immediately, garnished with chopped dill pickle (if using).

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This salad retains the core flavors of a Jimmy John’s sandwich but presents them in a lighter, healthier format. The mayonnaise-based dressing echoes the classic sandwich spread, while the crumbled chips provide the satisfying crunch of the side dish. The optional pickle adds the signature tangy flavor.

### 2. Jimmy John’s Inspired Quesadillas

Transform the classic sandwich fillings into a warm and cheesy quesadilla.

**Ingredients:**

* Large flour tortillas
* Thinly sliced ham, turkey, or roast beef (about 4 oz)
* Provolone cheese, shredded (about 4 oz)
* Tomato, thinly sliced
* Red onion, thinly sliced
* Mayonnaise or Dijon mustard (for spreading)
* Butter or oil for cooking
* Pickle slices, for serving
* Chips, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the tortillas:** Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or Dijon mustard on one side of each tortilla.
2. **Assemble the quesadillas:** On one half of each tortilla, layer shredded provolone cheese, sliced meat, tomato, and red onion.
3. **Fold the tortillas:** Fold the other half of the tortilla over the filling.
4. **Cook the quesadillas:** Heat a lightly oiled or buttered skillet over medium heat. Place the quesadillas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Serve:** Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve with pickle slices and chips on the side.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This recipe takes the sandwich fillings and melts them inside a tortilla, creating a warm and comforting meal. Serving it with pickles and chips completes the Total Package experience.

### 3. Jimmy John’s Inspired Pizza

Why not put your favorite Jimmy John’s ingredients on a pizza?

**Ingredients:**

* Pre-made pizza dough or homemade pizza dough
* Pizza sauce (optional, you can use a thin layer of mayonnaise instead)
* Mozzarella cheese, shredded
* Thinly sliced ham, turkey, or salami (about 4 oz)
* Provolone cheese, shredded (about 2 oz)
* Tomato, thinly sliced
* Red onion, thinly sliced
* Banana peppers, sliced (optional)
* Dried oregano

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
2. **Prepare the pizza dough:** Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness and shape. Place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. **Add the sauce:** Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce (or mayonnaise) over the dough.
4. **Add the cheese:** Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. **Add the toppings:** Layer ham, turkey, or salami, provolone cheese, tomato, red onion, and banana peppers (if using) over the mozzarella cheese.
6. **Season:** Sprinkle with dried oregano.
7. **Bake the pizza:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. **Serve:** Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Serve with a side salad and maybe even some chips for the full Total Package feel.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This pizza uses the classic sandwich ingredients as toppings, offering a fun and flavorful twist on a traditional pizza. The optional banana peppers add a kick similar to the Jimmy John’s hot peppers.

### 4. Jimmy John’s Inspired Pasta Salad

This cold pasta salad is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or side dish.

**Ingredients:**

* Cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or similar shape)
* Thinly sliced ham, turkey, or salami (about 4 oz), diced
* Provolone cheese, cubed (about 2 oz)
* Cherry tomatoes, halved
* Cucumber, diced
* Red onion, finely chopped
* Black olives, sliced (optional)
* Italian dressing
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Crumbled potato chips, for garnish (optional)
* Dill pickle, chopped, for garnish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Combine ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced meat, provolone cheese, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and black olives (if using).
2. **Dress the salad:** Pour Italian dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Adjust the amount of dressing to your liking.
3. **Season:** Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Serve:** Serve chilled, garnished with crumbled potato chips and chopped dill pickle (if using).

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This pasta salad incorporates the key flavors and ingredients of a Jimmy John’s sandwich into a refreshing and satisfying dish. The Italian dressing provides a tangy and flavorful base, while the crumbled chips and pickle add the signature crunch and tang of the Total Package.

### 5. Jimmy John’s Inspired Grilled Cheese

Elevate your grilled cheese game with Jimmy John’s flair.

**Ingredients:**

* Slices of your favorite bread
* Butter, for spreading
* Provolone cheese slices
* Thinly sliced ham, turkey, or roast beef (about 2 oz)
* Tomato slices
* Mayonnaise or Dijon mustard (optional)
* Pickle spear, for serving
* Chips, for serving

**Instructions:**

1. **Butter the bread:** Spread butter on one side of each slice of bread.
2. **Assemble the sandwich:** Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a skillet. Layer provolone cheese, meat, tomato slices, and another layer of provolone cheese on top of the bread.
3. **Spread with mayo/mustard (optional):** If desired, spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or Dijon mustard on the inside of the other slice of bread.
4. **Top with bread:** Place the second slice of bread on top, butter-side up.
5. **Grill the sandwich:** Cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. **Serve:** Serve immediately with a pickle spear and chips.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This grilled cheese uses the classic sandwich ingredients and incorporates the optional mayonnaise or mustard for an extra layer of flavor. The pickle spear and chips complete the Total Package experience.

### 6. Jimmy John’s Inspired Snack Board

A fun and customizable way to enjoy the flavors of Jimmy John’s.

**Ingredients:**

* Assortment of thinly sliced meats (turkey, ham, roast beef, salami)
* Provolone cheese slices or cubes
* Variety of vegetables (cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, carrot sticks, bell pepper strips, red onion rings)
* Pickles, sliced
* Potato chips
* Crackers or baguette slices
* Dips (mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, hummus, ranch dressing)
* Small bowls for dips

**Instructions:**

1. **Arrange the ingredients:** On a large platter or cutting board, arrange the meats, cheese, vegetables, pickles, chips, and crackers in an appealing manner.
2. **Add the dips:** Place the dips in small bowls around the platter.
3. **Serve:** Serve the snack board as an appetizer or light meal.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This snack board provides all the elements of a Jimmy John’s meal in a deconstructed and customizable format. Guests can mix and match their favorite ingredients to create their own personalized bites.

### 7. Cookie Crumb Topping for Ice Cream

What to do with the cookie from the Total Package? Crush it and sprinkle it on ice cream!

**Ingredients:**

* Jimmy John’s chocolate chip cookie
* Your favorite ice cream

**Instructions:**

1. **Crush the cookie:** Place the cookie in a zip-top bag and crush it into small pieces using a rolling pin or your hands.
2. **Top the ice cream:** Scoop your favorite ice cream into a bowl and sprinkle the crushed cookie on top.
3. **Enjoy:** Enjoy the sweet and crunchy treat.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This simple recipe utilizes the cookie from the Total Package to create a delicious and easy dessert topping.

### 8. Jimmy John’s Inspired Loaded Potato Skins

Upgrade your potato skins with Jimmy John’s flavors.

**Ingredients:**

* Baked potatoes, halved and scooped out
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Crispy bacon, crumbled
* Thinly sliced ham or turkey, chopped
* Sour cream
* Green onions, chopped
* Pickle relish (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the potato skins:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the potato skins with oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 10 minutes.
2. **Add the toppings:** Fill each potato skin with cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, ham or turkey, and pickle relish (if using).
3. **Bake again:** Bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. **Serve:** Top with sour cream and green onions and serve immediately.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This recipe uses the classic sandwich ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful appetizer. The addition of pickle relish adds a tangy twist.

### 9. Jimmy John’s Inspired Breakfast Sandwich

Start your day with a Total Package-inspired breakfast.

**Ingredients:**

* English muffins, split and toasted
* Scrambled eggs
* Thinly sliced ham or bacon
* Provolone cheese slices
* Tomato slices
* Mayonnaise or sriracha mayo (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Assemble the sandwich:** On one half of each toasted English muffin, layer scrambled eggs, ham or bacon, provolone cheese, and tomato slices.
2. **Add sauce (optional):** Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise or sriracha mayo on the other half of the English muffin, if desired.
3. **Top with the other half of the muffin:** Place the other half of the English muffin on top.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately with a side of fruit or yogurt.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This breakfast sandwich incorporates the classic sandwich ingredients into a morning-friendly meal. The addition of sriracha mayo adds a spicy kick.

### 10. Jimmy John’s Inspired Rice Bowl

A customizable and healthy option.

**Ingredients:**

* Cooked rice (white or brown)
* Thinly sliced turkey, chicken, or tofu
* Black beans
* Corn
* Diced tomatoes
* Red onion, finely chopped
* Shredded lettuce
* Your favorite dressing (Italian, ranch, or vinaigrette)
* Crushed chips (optional)
* Pickled jalapenos (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Assemble the bowl:** In a bowl, layer cooked rice, protein of your choice, black beans, corn, tomatoes, red onion, and lettuce.
2. **Dress the bowl:** Drizzle your favorite dressing over the bowl.
3. **Add toppings:** Top with crushed chips and pickled jalapenos (if using).
4. **Serve:** Enjoy immediately.

**Why it’s Total Package Inspired:** This rice bowl allows for customization while incorporating key flavors and ingredients found in Jimmy John’s sandwiches, offering a balanced and satisfying meal.

## Tips for Total Package Recipe Success

* **Fresh Ingredients are Key:** Just like Jimmy John’s prides itself on fresh ingredients, so should you. Use the freshest vegetables, meats, and cheeses possible for the best flavor.
* **Thinly Sliced Meats Matter:** The thin slicing of the meats is a hallmark of Jimmy John’s sandwiches. If you don’t have a deli slicer, ask your butcher to slice the meat thinly for you.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment:** These recipes are just a starting point. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients, sauces, and toppings to create your own unique Total Package-inspired creations.
* **Embrace the Simplicity:** Jimmy John’s sandwiches are known for their simplicity. Don’t overcomplicate your recipes. Focus on highlighting the flavors of the core ingredients.
* **Consider Dietary Restrictions:** Adapt these recipes to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Use gluten-free bread or tortillas, vegetarian protein sources like tofu or tempeh, or dairy-free cheese alternatives.
* **Make it a Meal Prep:** Prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time, such as slicing vegetables and cooking pasta, to make meal preparation quicker and easier during the week.

## Conclusion

The Jimmy John’s Total Package meal deal is more than just a convenient lunch option; it’s an inspiration for culinary creativity. By deconstructing the components of the Total Package and reimagining them in new and exciting ways, you can create a variety of delicious and satisfying meals at home. So, next time you’re enjoying a Jimmy John’s sandwich, consider the possibilities and let your imagination run wild!