There is something wonderfully nostalgic and irresistibly delicious about the Italian Sub Squares Recipe. Imagine biting into layers of savory salami and tender ham, perfectly melted provolone cheese, and fresh crisp veggies, all nestled inside a soft yet crusty Italian bread. This recipe is a game-changer for gatherings and family meals alike, offering the classic flavors of an Italian sub in a fun, easy-to-share square form. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just craving a hearty sandwich with a modern twist, these Italian Sub Squares deliver flavor, texture, and pure satisfaction every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Italian Sub Squares Recipe is in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward, but each plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the robust Italian bread to the fresh veggies and zingy Italian dressing, every component adds layers of flavor worth savoring.
- Italian bread: A sturdy yet soft loaf that holds all the goodies without getting soggy is the foundation of this dish.
- Salami (8 oz): Adds a spicy, smoky kick that brings authenticity to the sandwich.
- Ham (8 oz): Balances the salami with a tender, slightly sweet flavor.
- Provolone cheese (8 oz): Melts beautifully, tying all the savory elements together.
- Lettuce (1 cup shredded): Adds a refreshing crunch and bright green color.
- Tomato (1 sliced): Juicy and sweet, it brightens the sandwich with every bite.
- Red onion (1/4 cup thinly sliced): Offers a subtle sharpness and crunch.
- Italian dressing (1/4 cup): The zesty drizzle that brings all the flavors to life and adds a perfect tang.
How to Make Italian Sub Squares Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, or 175 degrees Celsius. This ensures it’s nice and ready to gently melt the cheese and warm the sandwich without drying it out.
Step 2: Slice the Italian Bread
Carefully slice the loaf in half lengthwise, creating two broad sandwich pieces. This sturdy bread is key to holding all the flavorful layers together.
Step 3: Layer the Meats and Cheese
On the bottom half of the bread, layer the salami and ham evenly. Then, add the provolone slices on top. This combination delivers a rich, savory base that will melt perfectly in the oven.
Step 4: Add the Fresh Veggies
Next, pile on the shredded lettuce, followed by the tomato slices and red onion. These fresh toppings add crispness and a lively contrast to the meat and cheese.
Step 5: Drizzle Italian Dressing
Pour the Italian dressing evenly over the veggies; this adds a bright, tangy note that ties the entire sandwich together beautifully.
Step 6: Close and Wrap
Place the top half of the bread back onto the layered bottom half, then wrap the entire sandwich tightly in aluminum foil. Wrapping is essential for even heating and to keep the flavors sealed in during baking.
Step 7: Bake Until Warm and Melty
Bake the wrapped sandwich in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. This step melts the cheese and warms all the ingredients to perfection without making the bread soggy.
Step 8: Unwrap and Cut into Squares
After removing the sandwich from the oven, carefully unwrap it and slice it into equally sized squares. These bite-sized portions are perfect for sharing or packing up for a picnic.
How to Serve Italian Sub Squares Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Italian Sub Squares, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for color and a hint of herbaceous brightness. A few pepperoncini or sliced olives on the side add a spicy, salty zing that complements the sandwich wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with crunchy pickles or a simple pasta salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. For a hearty lunch, add some kettle-cooked potato chips or a cup of minestrone soup to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these squares on a rustic wooden cutting board or slate platter to show off their colorful layers. For parties, arrange them on a tiered tray with small dipping cups of extra Italian dressing or spicy mustard, turning your classic sandwich into a fun finger-food centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Italian Sub Squares Recipe, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days, making them a convenient grab-and-go option for busy days.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the bread might lose its ideal texture when thawed. If you want to freeze the sandwich, do so before baking, wrapped well in foil and plastic wrap. Thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake freshly to preserve as much flavor and texture as possible.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, unwrap the squares and warm them in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This gentle heat keeps the bread crisp and the cheese melty, bringing back that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Italian Sub Squares Recipe?
Absolutely! While provolone is traditional and melts beautifully, mozzarella or fontina are great substitutes if you want a slightly different flavor profile or texture.
Is it necessary to bake the sandwich wrapped in foil?
Yes, wrapping in foil traps heat and moisture, which melts the cheese evenly and warms the fillings without drying out the bread or toppings. Baking unwrapped may result in a drier sandwich.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?
Of course! Swap the salami and ham for layers of grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and roasted red peppers along with a hearty cheese selection. The Italian dressing will still add that perfect tang.
What is the best type of Italian bread to use?
A fresh, soft loaf with a slightly crisp crust works best—ideally something that holds up well against the fillings without becoming too soggy, like a classic Italian sandwich bread or a sturdy baguette.
How long can Italian Sub Squares sit out before serving?
Since this recipe contains fresh vegetables and deli meats, it’s best to serve the squares within 2 hours of baking to ensure freshness and food safety. If serving at a party, keep leftovers refrigerated promptly.
Final Thoughts
Italian Sub Squares Recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of an Italian sub, made effortlessly shareable and perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant ingredients and easy preparation make it one of those dishes you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. I encourage you to give it a try—you’ll see firsthand how this no-fuss favorite can steal the show at your next family dinner or casual get-together.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Sandwiches
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Italian Sub Squares that bring together layers of savory salami, ham, provolone cheese, and fresh veggies on a crusty Italian bread, baked to perfection and perfect for parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Italian Sub Squares Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian bread
- 8 oz salami, sliced
- 8 oz ham, sliced
- 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the sandwich.
- Prepare Bread: Slice the Italian bread in half lengthwise, creating a top and bottom half for layering.
- Layer Meats and Cheese: On the bottom half of the bread, layer the sliced salami, ham, and provolone cheese evenly.
- Add Vegetables: Top the cheese layer with shredded lettuce, sliced tomato, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Dress the Sandwich: Drizzle the Italian dressing over the veggies to add tangy flavor and moistness.
- Assemble: Place the top half of the bread back on to complete the sandwich.
- Wrap and Bake: Wrap the entire sandwich securely in aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the sandwich.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, carefully unwrap, and cut into serving-sized squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a crispy crust, remove the foil during the last 3-5 minutes of baking.
- Use your favorite Italian dressing or make your own for added freshness.
- Feel free to add olives or banana peppers for extra flavor.
- To keep sandwiches fresh longer, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving.
