Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches
Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches are a warm, melty twist on the classic cold deli favorite. Imagine layers of Italian meats like salami and ham, plenty of cheese, and fresh veggies…
By Ava
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Reading time: 5 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches are a warm, melty twist on the classic cold deli favorite. Imagine layers of Italian meats like salami and ham, plenty of cheese, and fresh veggies piled high on a hearty sandwich roll, all baked until the bread is perfectly toasty and the cheese is deliciously gooey.
I love making these sandwiches when I want something easy but still feel like I’m having a treat. The best part is how the baking blends all those flavors together and makes the sandwich so much more satisfying. I usually add a little Italian dressing inside for that extra tang, and it really ties everything together.
These sandwiches are great for feeding a crowd or making ahead for a quick dinner. I like to cut them into smaller pieces so everyone can grab and eat without fuss. They remind me of fun family gatherings or casual weekends when everyone just wants good food and good company.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sandwich Rolls: These rolls need a crispy crust and soft inside to hold up to baking. If you can’t find Italian rolls, try a sturdy French baguette or hoagie roll instead. Just avoid soft sandwich bread—it won’t crisp well.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and adds mild flavor. Mozzarella or fontina are good substitutes if you want a different yet melty cheese option.
Italian Meats: Salami, ham, and pepperoni bring the classic flavor. For a lighter or turkey option, swap ham with turkey or chicken deli slices. You can skip pepperoni if you prefer less spice.
Veggies & Dressing: Fresh tomato, lettuce, onion, and pickles add crunch and brightness. Italian dressing adds tang and moisture—if you’re avoiding dressing, a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar works well too.
How Can You Keep the Sandwich Crispy and Melty Without Getting Soggy?
To prevent sogginess while still melting the cheese and warming ingredients, follow these tips:
- Spread condiments (like mayo or dressing) lightly and only on the bread base to avoid excess moisture.
- Wrap the sandwich tightly in foil to trap heat, helping cheese melt evenly.
- Bake at a moderate 350°F for 15-20 minutes to toast the bread without drying it out.
- Let the sandwich rest for a minute after baking before unwrapping to keep the bread from becoming soggy from steam.
These simple steps help keep your sandwich toasted on the outside yet warm and gooey inside—making every bite delicious!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – to hold your wrapped sandwiches for even heating and easy cleanup.
- Aluminum foil – wraps the sandwiches tightly to keep moisture in and cheese melty.
- Sharp knife – helps you slice the sandwich rolls cleanly without squishing them.
- Cutting board – a stable surface for prepping veggies and slicing rolls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use turkey or roast beef instead of Italian meats for a different sandwich twist that’s still tasty and satisfying.
- Swap provolone for mozzarella or fontina if you want a milder or creamier cheese melt.
- Add roasted red peppers or banana peppers for extra zing and sweetness.
- Include a layer of sautéed mushrooms to boost earthiness and add moisture.
Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sandwich:
- 2 Italian sandwich rolls (6-8 inches each)
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 6 slices ham, folded
- 6 slices salami, folded
- 4 slices pepperoni
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced or grilled (optional)
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- ¼ cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup sliced pickles
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup Italian dressing
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and assemble the sandwiches, plus 15-20 minutes of baking. In roughly 30 minutes, you’ll have warm, melty sandwiches ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Rolls and Spread Condiments:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully slice each Italian roll lengthwise without cutting all the way through — this helps keep the sandwich together. If you like, spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves of the rolls for extra flavor.
2. Layer the Cheese and Meats:
Start by layering the provolone cheese on the bottom halves of the rolls. Add the cooked chicken slices on top if you’re using them. Then fold and layer ham, salami, and pepperoni evenly over the chicken.
3. Add Veggies and Dressing:
Drizzle Italian dressing over the meats to add a tangy kick. Next, add slices of tomato, red onion, pickles, and shredded lettuce, creating a colorful and crunchy layer.
4. Wrap and Bake:
Close the sandwiches with the top half of the rolls. Wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese melts and the bread is nicely toasted.
5. Serve:
Take the sandwiches out of the oven, unwrap them, and cut into portions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious, cheesy Baked Italian Subs!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cooking and slicing it for the sandwich. This helps ensure even heating and prevents extra moisture during baking.
Can I Make These Sandwiches Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Assemble the sandwiches, wrap them tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake them as directed—adding a few extra minutes if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep that melty, toasted texture.
What Can I Substitute for Italian Dressing?
If you don’t have Italian dressing on hand, a simple mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and Italian seasoning works great. You can also use a balsamic vinaigrette for a touch of sweetness.