The Italian Sub Loaf is a hearty, flavor-packed sandwich baked to perfection in a crusty loaf of bread. Stuffed with layers of deli meats, melted cheese, and crisp vegetables, this baked sub is a satisfying meal for lunch, dinner, or game day gatherings. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, Classic Flavors – A combination of Italian meats, cheeses, and seasonings for the ultimate sub experience.
- Easy to Make – Just assemble, bake, and serve—no complicated steps!
- Perfect for Sharing – Great for family meals, potlucks, or game nights.
- Customizable – Swap out meats, cheeses, or toppings to suit your taste.
- Crispy Outside, Melty Inside – Baked to perfection for a warm and satisfying bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 large Italian or French loaf
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ pound salami, thinly sliced
- ¼ pound ham, thinly sliced
- ¼ pound pepperoni or capicola
- ¼ pound provolone cheese, sliced
- ¼ pound mozzarella cheese, sliced
- ½ cup banana peppers, sliced
- ½ cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing or balsamic glaze
Directions
- Prepare the Bread – Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and hollow out some of the inside to make room for the fillings.
- Season the Loaf – Brush the inside with melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Layer the Ingredients – Start with a layer of provolone cheese, followed by ham, salami, and pepperoni. Add mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake – Place the loaf on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
- Add Fresh Ingredients – Remove from the oven and top with banana peppers, roasted red peppers, lettuce, and red onion. Drizzle with Italian dressing or balsamic glaze.
- Assemble and Serve – Spread mayonnaise on the top half (if using), then press the sandwich together. Slice and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Cheesy Upgrade – Mix shredded Parmesan into the melted butter for extra flavor.
- Pesto Twist – Swap the mayo for pesto for a fresh, herby taste.
- Low-Carb Option – Make it into a lettuce wrap instead of using bread.
- Extra Crunch – Add toasted breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freezing – Freeze before baking. Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheating – Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, ciabatta, baguette, or a hoagie roll work well.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Provolone and mozzarella are classic, but Swiss or cheddar can be used too.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead and bake when ready to serve.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Hollow out some of the bread and avoid overloading it with wet ingredients.
Can I add more meats?
Absolutely! Mortadella, turkey, or pastrami make great additions.
What sauces go well with this sub?
Italian dressing, balsamic glaze, or a mix of mayo and mustard work well.
Can I make this sandwich cold instead of baking it?
Yes! Just skip the butter and toasting step for a classic cold Italian sub.
Is this sandwich spicy?
Not inherently, but you can add spicy peppers or hot sauce for heat.
How do I serve this for a party?
Slice it into smaller pieces and serve with dipping sauces.
Can I add veggies like tomatoes?
Yes! Just add them after baking so they don’t make the bread soggy.
Conclusion
The Italian Sub Loaf is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with bold flavors. Whether you enjoy it warm and melty or as a cold sandwich, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a classic Italian sub with a twist!
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