Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches are a deliciously hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch, dinner, or a game day treat. With a combination of savory meats, melty cheese, and tangy banana peppers, this sandwich is packed with flavor in every bite. The added bonus of being baked to golden perfection makes it a comforting, crispy delight. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or enjoying it on your own, these subs are sure to please.

Ingredients

• 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns

• ¼ lb salami, thinly sliced

• ¼ lb chicken, thinly sliced

• ¼ lb pepperoni or capicola, thinly sliced

• ¼ lb roast beef (optional for extra heartiness), thinly sliced

• 8 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup banana peppers or pepperoncini, sliced

• ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup Italian dressing

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy cleanup.

2. Assemble the Sandwiches
   Slice the sub rolls in half horizontally, but don’t separate them completely—leave a small hinge to keep the top attached.
   Layer the bottom halves of the rolls with salami, chicken, pepperoni (or capicola), and roast beef (if using).
   Top the meats with banana peppers, red onion slices, and 2 slices of provolone or mozzarella cheese per sandwich.

3. Prepare the Sauce
   In a small bowl, combine the Italian dressing, melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well.

4. Bake the Sandwiches
   Brush the sauce mixture generously over the tops of the sandwiches.
   Place the sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted, and the rolls are golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy
   Remove from the oven and serve immediately. These sandwiches are great on their own or paired with chips and a side salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 sandwiches

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 12 minutes

• Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meats and load up on extra vegetables like olives, roasted red peppers, and spinach for a lighter option.

• Cheese Swap: Try different cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a unique twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce inside the sub rolls for an extra layer of heat.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free hoagie buns to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped in foil or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. Alternatively, wrap in foil and heat in the oven to maintain the sandwich’s crispiness.

FAQs

How can I make the sandwiches less greasy?

You can reduce the amount of butter or use a lower-fat dressing option. You can also lightly pat down the meats with a paper towel before assembling the sandwich.

Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sandwiches, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Bake them just before serving for a fresh, hot meal.

Can I freeze these sandwiches?

Yes, you can freeze assembled sandwiches before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.

Can I use different types of bread for these sandwiches?

Absolutely! You can use baguettes, ciabatta rolls, or even hoagie-style bread if you prefer something different from sub rolls.

Is it possible to make these sandwiches without meat?

Yes, you can create a delicious vegetarian version by using extra veggies and cheeses. Consider adding roasted vegetables, hummus, or even grilled tofu for protein.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Swiss, cheddar, or even a sharp blue cheese to add extra flavor.

Can I use pre-sliced deli meat?

Yes, pre-sliced deli meat is a great time-saver and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the amounts according to your preferences.

Can I add extra condiments to the sandwich?

Certainly! Mayonnaise, mustard, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze would add an extra depth of flavor. You could also add more Italian dressing for added zest.

How do I know when the sandwiches are done baking?

The sandwiches are ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread has turned golden and slightly crispy.

Can I add other vegetables like tomatoes or lettuce?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite sandwich veggies. Just be mindful that adding wet ingredients like tomatoes may make the bread soggy, so it’s best to add them fresh after baking.

Conclusion

Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches are a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and cheesy goodness. With a simple list of ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy a satisfying and delicious meal in under 30 minutes. Whether you're serving them for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a party spread, these subs are sure to be a hit.