Can I make this baked Italian sub ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sandwich in advance by layering all the ingredients except the fresh toppings. Wrap it tightly in foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, then add lettuce, tomato, and other fresh toppings after it comes out of the oven.

Which type of bread is ideal for an Italian sub?

For the best results, go with a hoagie roll or sub roll. Choose one that has a tender interior and a firm outer crust to ensure it stays intact and doesn't get soggy while baking.

Can I use different meats or cheeses?

Absolutely. This recipe is very flexible. Try swapping in turkey, roast beef, or capicola, and switch up the cheese with mozzarella, cheddar, or a smoky provolone for a new twist.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without losing moisture?

Wrap the sub in foil and reheat in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps keep the bread crisp and the cheese melty without drying out the ingredients.

Is this baked Italian sub freezer-friendly?

It’s not ideal for freezing once fully assembled and baked, especially with fresh toppings. However, you can prep the sandwich (without veggies) and freeze it wrapped tightly in foil. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 20–25 minutes, then add fresh ingredients before serving.

Can I make a vegetarian version?

Yes. Replace the deli meats with grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers. Keep the cheese or use a plant-based alternative for a delicious vegetarian Italian sub.

Baked Italian Sub Recipe That Will Blow Your Mind

Description

This baked Italian sub recipe delivers bold, savory flavors wrapped in a perfectly toasted hoagie roll. Packed with layers of ham, salami, and pepperoni, and finished with melty provolone, fresh veggies, and a tangy kick of mustard, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Quick to assemble and easy to customize, this hot Italian sandwich is perfect for lunch, dinner, or game day.

Ingredients

1 large hoagie roll (or sub roll), sliced open
3 slices deli ham
3 slices Genoa salami
3 slices pepperoni
2–3 slices provolone cheese
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
1/4 cup shredded lettuce
2–3 tomato slices
1 tablespoon sliced banana peppers
1 tablespoon sliced red onions
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon olive oil or melted butter (for brushing the roll)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Prepare the bread: Lay the hoagie roll open on the sheet and brush the inside lightly with olive oil or melted butter.
Spread sauces: Evenly spread mayonnaise and Dijon mustard on both sides of the roll.
Layer meats: Add ham, salami, and pepperoni, folding each slice slightly for extra volume.
Add cheese: Top the meats with slices of provolone cheese.
Bake the sandwich: Close the sub and bake for 8–10 minutes until the cheese melts and the roll is golden brown. Optional: broil for 1–2 minutes for extra crispness.
Add toppings: After baking, carefully open the sandwich and layer on lettuce, tomato, banana peppers, and onions.
Season and serve: Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, slice in half, and enjoy warm.

Notes

Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or spicy giardiniera.
Vegetarian twist: Swap meats for roasted vegetables and use plant-based cheese.
Meal prep tip: Assemble the sandwich without fresh toppings, wrap in foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free sub roll and check all condiments for gluten content.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian-American