A peanut butter sandwich is one of the simplest meals out there, but it doesn’t have to be boring. With just a few small upgrades, you can turn a basic PB sandwich into something sweet, savory, crunchy, spicy, or even indulgent. Whether you’re working with pantry staples, leftovers, or feeling a little adventurous, these ideas show just how versatile peanut butter can be. Once you start mixing and matching, the classic peanut butter sandwich becomes anything but basic.
Related: Ways To Use Peanut Butter
Classic Sweet Add-Ins
These build on the familiar PB sandwich flavors most of us grew up with.
- Jelly
- Honey
- Maple syrup
- Apple butter
- Marshmallow fluff
- Powdered sugar
- Condensed milk
Fruit Additions
Fresh or cooked fruit adds sweetness, texture, and balance.
- Banana
- Apple
- Berries
- Peaches
Dessert-Inspired Upgrades
Perfect when you want your sandwich to feel more like a treat.
- Chocolate
- Nutella
- Biscoff cookie butter
- Oreo cookies
- Ice cream
- Granola
- Cereal
Crunchy Add-Ins
These add texture and a salty contrast to creamy peanut butter.
- Potato chips
- Pretzels
- Fritos
- Flaming Hot Cheetos
- Peanuts
- Nuts
- Seeds
Savory and Salty Twists
Unexpected but surprisingly good for adventurous eaters.
- Bacon
- Ham
- Cheese
- Mayo
- Butter
- Fried egg
Veggie Add-Ins
Add freshness, crunch, or a savory edge.
- Pickles
- Pickled onion
- Jalapeños
- Kimchi
- Bell peppers
- Tomatoes
- Onion
- Lettuce
- Carrots
Spicy and Bold Flavors
For people who like heat or umami.
- Chili powder
- Black pepper
- Chili crisp
- Sriracha
- Mustard
- Miso
- Marmite
Bread Swaps
Changing the bread can completely transform the sandwich.
- Whole grain bread
- Sourdough
- English muffin
- Hot dog bun
- Rice cake
Cooking Methods
How you prepare it can make just as much difference as what you add.
- Cold
- Toasted
- Grilled
- Pan fried
- Deep fried
Classic Combos
These combinations are classic ways to use some of the above ideas.
- Honey & Banana
- Pickles & Potato chips
- Deep fried with Oreos
- On a rice cake with apple
- Grilled with cheese & ham
- Egg & Siracha
