The Ultimate Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches: Your Sensational Homemade Recipe
Imagine perfectly toasted hoagie rolls, generously filled with savory ham, spicy salami, zesty pepperoni, and wonderfully melted cheese. Then, pile it high with an abundance of fresh, crisp veggies, all drizzled with aromatic olive oil and tangy red wine vinegar. These Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches are, in a single word, sensational. They are, hands down, one of the most satisfying and flavorful sandwich recipes you will ever encounter! This recipe elevates a simple sub to a gourmet experience, perfect for any meal or gathering.
Are you finding yourself in a dinner rut, searching for inspiration beyond the usual suspects? It happens to the best of us! When that feeling strikes, I often remind myself that sometimes, the best solutions are found by returning to the basics. Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated, time-consuming, or involve a long list of exotic ingredients. We simply want our meals to taste amazing and bring joy to the table, right? And I certainly don’t think that’s too much to ask!
For years, I meticulously packed my children’s lunches every single day. During the bustling school year, one thing I could always count on having readily available in my fridge was a selection of quality deli meats and cheeses. There’s a special satisfaction that comes from creating a quick, delicious, and hearty dinner using ingredients you already have on hand. It’s truly a moment to pat yourself on the back! Easy and delicious meals were absolutely essential for maintaining my sanity during those busy school days, and they still are for quick weeknight dinners.
These particular toasted Italian subs are so incredibly flavorful and satisfying that my kids never once gave me the dreaded “but we had sandwiches for lunch” complaint. In fact, these gourmet-quality toasted Italian subs are so outstanding, they could effortlessly give any professional sub shop a serious run for their money! The combination of warm, crusty bread, melted cheese, and vibrant fresh toppings creates an experience far beyond your average cold sandwich.
Italian Sub Sandwiches That Rival Your Favorite Sub Shop
These incredible Toasted Italian Sandwiches are destined to become the next beloved go-to sandwich recipe for your entire family! Dare I say they are not only better but also noticeably fresher than anything you might typically find at your local sandwich shop. The secret lies in the quality of your chosen ingredients and the simple act of toasting them to perfection. Plus, the assembly process is super simple, making this a fantastic option for busy evenings or when you’re feeding a crowd.
Each half of the toasted bun is slathered with creamy, flavorful garlic basil pesto, adding an incredible depth of herbaceous flavor. Then, they are generously stuffed with premium fresh ingredients, including a delicious medley of classic Italian cured meats and vibrant, crisp fresh veggies. This delightful combination is a fantastic and guaranteed way to break free from any boring meal rut you might be in, transforming a mundane dinner into an exciting culinary adventure.
Serving up a crowd has never been easier or more satisfying than with these baked Italian hoagies! Their tangy, savory, and slightly spicy profiles make them the ultimate game day appetizer, a perfect centerpiece for a casual family gathering meal, or an impressive addition to any party platter. They are effortlessly customizable, appealing to a wide range of tastes, and always a crowd-pleaser.
In the mood for other yummy sandwich ideas or quick, comforting meals? Be sure to try my Turkey Reuben Sandwich – “The Rachel”, for a classic deli experience, or my hearty Crock Pot French Dip Sandwiches, which are perfect for a cozy evening. For an incredibly easy and flavor-packed dish, don’t miss my popular Instant Pot Crack Chicken recipe!
WHAT IS AN ITALIAN TOASTED SANDWICH?
The iconic Italian sandwich, as we know it today, boasts a fascinating history. It was famously invented by Italian baker Giavanni Amato in Portland, Maine, at the turn of the 20th century. These original tasty sandwiches served a practical purpose: they were designed as a portable, affordable, and nourishing lunch option for local laborers, providing sustenance for hard-working individuals. From its humble beginnings, the zesty Italian sandwich has evolved and grown in popularity, becoming an undeniable staple found in virtually every sandwich shop, deli, and corner store across America, loved for its robust flavors and satisfying nature.
The traditional Maine Italian hoagie typically features a specific construction: it begins with a long, soft bread roll or bun, acting as the perfect vessel for its delectable fillings. Inside, you’ll find a medley of classic Italian cured meats, often including salami, mortadella, or capicola. These are complemented by slices of cheese, fresh tomato, crisp onion, vibrant bell peppers, and briny olives. The entire creation is typically seasoned with a generous drizzle of high-quality olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of freshly ground black pepper. While these are the core components, additional ingredients such as spicy pepperoni, tangy banana peppers, or refreshing lettuce frequently make appearances, allowing for delightful variations and personal preferences. To complete the experience, Italian subs are usually finished with a bright and zesty dressing, often made with red or white wine vinegar, a squeeze of lemon juice, a hint of garlic, or a touch of mustard, all expertly chosen to enhance and complement the sandwich’s inherently bright and savory flavors.
While both “American sub sandwiches” and “Italian subs” share a common format of meats, cheeses, and vegetables on a long roll, the primary distinction often lies in the specific types of cheeses and, more importantly, the distinct deli meats used. Italian subs emphasize authentic cured Italian meats and often specific Italian cheeses like provolone or mozzarella, contributing to their signature taste. However, these ingredients are highly versatile and can certainly be mixed and matched according to individual taste and availability, allowing for endless customization. The dressing for a general sub sandwich often mirrors the ingredients found in an Italian hoagie, utilizing vinegars and oils, but can sometimes incorporate additional herbs like oregano or basil, further enhancing the aroma and taste. Ultimately, the “Italian” in Italian sub signifies its heritage, drawing from a rich tradition of bright, bold, and traditionally Italian flavors in its ingredient selection, offering a unique and satisfying culinary experience.
One of the hallmarks of this recipe is the delightful contrast created by the toasted crust of the bread. When one side is generously slathered with rich pesto and the other features juicy red ripe tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese, it truly harmonizes with and elevates the spicy, flavorful Italian meats nestled within. The warmth of the toasted bread and melted cheese brings out the best in every component, creating a symphony of textures and tastes.
Toasting your hoagie or sub sandwich in the oven is remarkably effortless and yields superior results compared to other methods. The best way to achieve this is to assemble the two halves of the bun separately, laying them open-faced on a baking sheet. Arrange your selected meats and cheeses on top of each half. Then, bake them at approximately 350 degrees Fahrenheit (around 175 degrees Celsius) until the bread is perfectly golden and toasted, and the cheese has achieved that irresistible, bubbly, melted perfection. This method ensures even toasting and a wonderfully warm center.
Looking for perfect side dishes that will pair wonderfully with these delicious and robust Italian sandwiches? Consider trying my crispy and satisfying Homemade Double Fried French Fries for a classic combo. For a lighter, refreshing option, my Copycat Olive Garden Salad & Dressing brings bright, zesty flavors. Alternatively, my wholesome and crunchy Baked Sweet Potato Chips offer a delightful and easy accompaniment.
INGREDIENTS FOR BAKED ITALIAN HOAGIES
This incredible recipe relies on a straightforward handful of simple, readily available ingredients that you might already have tucked away in your refrigerator or pantry! For the precise measurements and quantities for each item, please make sure to scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card located at the bottom of this page.
- Hoagie Bun: The foundation of any great sub is its bread. We recommend a sturdy, fresh hoagie roll, typically about 6 inches in length. You can easily find these delicious rolls in the bakery section of most grocery stores. For best results, choose one that is soft on the inside but capable of crisping up beautifully when toasted. Alternatives include a crusty baguette or ciabatta bread.
- Garlic Basil Pesto: This vibrant pesto is a thick, fragrant green sauce known for its bright, herby, and slightly garlicky taste. It plays a crucial role in this sandwich, perfectly balancing the spicier, richer ingredients with its fresh, milder additive notes. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought brand or even make your own for an extra layer of freshness.
- Deli Ham and Hard Salami: For this specific recipe, we highly recommend the combination of savory deli ham and robust hard salami to create a rich and complex flavor profile. However, the beauty of an Italian sub lies in its versatility, so feel free to experiment with any of your preferred Italian cured meats, such as spicy capicola, mild mortadella, or even thin slices of prosciutto for a touch of elegance.
- Pepperoni: The inclusion of pepperoni is essential as it contributes just the right amount of delightful spice and a slightly greasy, savory kick to this already fantastic sandwich. Choose thin slices that will crisp up slightly when toasted.
- Mozzarella Cheese: We opt for mozzarella cheese for its excellent melting properties and mild, creamy flavor that complements the meats without overpowering them. If you prefer a sharper taste or a different texture, provolone cheese makes an excellent substitution, offering a classic deli experience.
- Red Onion: Red onions are a fantastic choice for this sub. They are generally a bit milder and sweeter than yellow onions, possessing a unique sharpness and pleasant crunch that makes them perfectly suited for this classic Italian sub sandwich. Slice them very thinly for the best texture and distribution of flavor.
- Red Ripe Tomato: The juicy, tart, and tangy flavor of fresh, red ripe tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast and a perfect pairing for the rich flavors of these Italian-style subs. Choose firm, ripe tomatoes and slice them evenly.
- Lettuce: Fresh, crisp lettuce is absolutely preferred here, as it adds a lovely, refreshing crunch and a touch of coolness to the warm, toasted sandwich. Iceberg or romaine lettuce works wonderfully. Add it after toasting to maintain its crispness.
- Pepperoncini Slices: These mild, tangy peppers introduce a delightful bit of heat and a spicy, pickled crunch that truly brightens the sandwich’s overall profile. If you enjoy a little extra zing, don’t skip these!
- Black Olives: For this particular recipe, black olives are highly recommended. Their sweeter, milder taste provides a wonderful counterpoint to the savory meats, distinguishing them from the often more bitter green varieties.
- Red Wine Vinegar and Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of good quality red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil over the finished sandwich is crucial. This classic combination acts as the perfect dressing, imparting an extra punch of bright, acidic flavor and a silky richness that ties all the ingredients together beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste. A simple sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of salt will enhance all the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Dried Oregano: This beloved Italian herb is non-negotiable for this recipe. Its earthy, slightly peppery taste provides that authentic Italian aroma and flavor that would otherwise leave the sandwich incomplete. Sprinkle generously!
HOW TO MAKE AN ITALIAN SUB IN THE OVEN
My highly acclaimed recipe for irresistible Italian subs is not only incredibly easy to follow but also remarkably quick to prepare, making it a perfect choice for any occasion! To find even more detailed, step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for achieving perfection, please remember to scroll down to the comprehensive recipe card, conveniently located at the very end of this page.
PREP
Begin by preheating your oven to a temperature of 300 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 150 degrees Celsius). This lower temperature ensures that the bread toasts gently and the cheese melts perfectly without burning. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
SLICE
Carefully slice the hoagie roll lengthwise, cutting it in half but ensuring you do not cut all the way through to the other side. You want it to remain hinged, like a book. Lay the sliced roll open-faced on the prepared cookie sheet, ensuring both halves are flat and ready for toppings. This open-faced approach allows for even toasting and melting.
APPLY
Generously slather about 1/2 tablespoon of the aromatic garlic basil pesto evenly onto each inside half of the hoagie roll. This vibrant pesto forms a flavorful base and barrier, infusing the bread with its herbaceous notes and preventing it from becoming soggy.
TOP
Now, it’s time to build your masterpiece! Neatly layer the deli ham, hard salami, slices of pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese slices onto each side of the pesto-coated hoagie roll. Ensure an even distribution of meats and cheese so every bite is packed with flavor.
MELT
Carefully transfer the baking sheet with the assembled subs into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until you observe that the bread has achieved a beautiful golden toast and the mozzarella cheese has become perfectly melted, gooey, and slightly bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.
TOPPINGS
Once the subs are hot and the cheese is melted, remove them from the oven. Now comes the best part: generously top each half with the fresh vegetables of your choice. Arrange the crisp lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, juicy red ripe tomatoes, tangy pepperoncini slices, and briny black olives to your liking. Adding fresh toppings after toasting ensures they retain their crispness and vibrant flavor.
DRIZZLE
For that authentic Italian finish, lightly drizzle each open-faced sandwich with a delightful combination of quality red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil. Adjust the amount to your personal taste, aiming for a balance of acidity and richness that complements the other flavors.
SPRINKLE
To complete the flavor profile, give a final sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper over the toppings. Don’t forget a generous dash of dried oregano, which is crucial for achieving that quintessential Italian aroma and taste.
SERVE
Carefully fold the two halves of the hoagie roll together to form a complete sandwich. Serve your sensational Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches warm, allowing the melted cheese and toasted bread to perfectly meld with the fresh, crisp toppings. Enjoy immediately for the best experience!
Tips for the Best Toasted Italian Subs
Achieving the perfect Toasted Italian Sub Sandwich is all about balancing textures and flavors. Here are a few expert tips to elevate your homemade subs:
- Choose Quality Bread: The hoagie roll is paramount. Look for fresh bread that has a good crust but is soft enough inside to absorb flavors. Avoid overly soft rolls that will become soggy.
- Layering is Key: When assembling, place the cheese directly on top of the meats. This ensures the cheese melts down, holding the meats in place and preventing them from sliding out.
- Don’t Over-Toast: Keep an eye on the oven. You want a golden, crispy exterior, not a burnt one. The low temperature helps prevent this, but baking times can vary.
- Fresh Veggies Last: Always add your crisp vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions after the sandwich comes out of the oven. This preserves their fresh crunch and vibrant colors.
- Customize Your Meats: While ham, salami, and pepperoni are classics, don’t hesitate to add or swap other Italian deli meats like mortadella, capicola, or even prosciutto for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Choices: Provolone is a popular alternative to mozzarella and offers a slightly sharper taste. A blend of cheeses can also be wonderful.
- Dressings and Seasonings: A good quality red wine vinegar and olive oil are essential. Consider whisking them together with a pinch of oregano and a crushed garlic clove for a more developed dressing. Freshly ground black pepper always makes a difference.
Make-Ahead and Storage Options
While these Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven, you can certainly do some prep work in advance to make mealtime even quicker:
- Prep Ingredients: Slice all your vegetables (onions, tomatoes, lettuce, pepperoncini, olives) and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
- Assemble Before Toasting: You can assemble the hoagie rolls with pesto, meats, and cheese, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours. When ready to eat, unwrap and toast as directed. This prevents the bread from getting soggy.
- Leftovers: If you have leftover toasted subs (unlikely!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in a toaster oven or a regular oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through and the bread is re-crisped. Add any fresh toppings after reheating.
Customization Ideas & Variations
The beauty of a homemade Italian sub is its adaptability. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Meat Varieties: Introduce other Italian cold cuts like soppressata, speck, or even add some cooked, thinly sliced chicken for a different protein twist.
- Cheese Blends: Experiment with provolone, white cheddar, or a Monterey Jack blend for varying melt and flavor profiles.
- Spice It Up: For those who love heat, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the meats, or include sliced jalapeños or hot giardiniera with the fresh toppings.
- Additional Veggies: Consider roasted red peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, or thinly sliced cucumbers for added crunch and flavor.
- Different Sauces: While pesto is fantastic, you could also try a simple Italian dressing, a touch of Dijon mustard, or even a roasted garlic aioli.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free hoagie rolls to accommodate dietary needs.
Love them? Pin them!
Don’t let these savory, mouth-watering Toasted Italian Subs disappear from your radar! Make sure you remember where you found this incredible recipe. Pin it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest before you go, so you can easily come back to it whenever a craving strikes!
OTHER DELICIOUS RECIPES TO ENJOY
If you loved these Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches, you’re sure to enjoy these other fantastic recipes that bring comfort and incredible flavor to your kitchen:
- Pepperoni Pizza Grilled Cheese (pictured above) – The best of both worlds in one brilliant sandwich!
- Instant Pot Twisted Meatball Sub – A quick and easy way to enjoy a hearty meatball sub.
- Buffalo Chicken Meatball Sub – A spicy and flavorful twist on a classic!
- Antipasto Pasta Salad Recipe – A vibrant and delicious side dish, perfect for gatherings.
- Simple Chicken Pesto Pizza – Another excellent way to enjoy the fresh flavors of pesto.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s make some incredibly delicious Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches and savor every sensational bite! 
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Print Recipe
Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 1 hoagie bun
- 1 Tablespoon garlic basil pesto
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices hard salami
- 8 small slices of pepperoni
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- slices of red onion
- slices of red ripe tomato
- crisp lettuce
- pepperoncini slices
- sliced black olives
- red wine vinegar and olive oil
- salt and pepper
- dried oregano
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150°C).
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Slice the hoagie roll in half lengthwise, but do not cut all the way through the back. Lay it open-faced on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Evenly slather 1/2 Tablespoon of garlic basil pesto on each inside half of the hoagie roll.
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Layer each side with the deli ham, hard salami, pepperoni slices, and mozzarella cheese slices.
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Bake for 10 minutes, or until the bread is nicely toasted and the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
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Once out of the oven, top the warm halves with your choice of fresh toppings, such as red onion, tomato, crisp lettuce, pepperoncini slices, and sliced black olives.
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Generously drizzle with red wine vinegar and olive oil to taste, enhancing all the flavors.
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Finish with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and dried oregano for that authentic Italian touch.
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Carefully fold the two halves to form a sandwich and serve warm immediately.
Nutrition
This recipe was originally posted on September 19, 2016, as a sponsored post for BabbleBox. I received free products in exchange for writing this recipe. This recipe has been updated to improve user experience and re-posted on June 10, 2022. The recipe remains the same.