Craving a sandwich that's a cut above the rest but takes only minutes to prepare?
Meet the toasted Italian sandwich — a symphony of Italian meats and cheeses toasted to perfection. This easy recipe creates a melty, crispy delight that will transport your taste buds straight to the cobblestone streets of Italy.
Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this toasted Italian sub is ready in just 15 minutes. It’s sure to become the new go-to sandwich for busy days when you want a filling meal that's both fast and flavorful.
Why This Toasted Italian Sandwich Recipe Works
- Effortless and fast: This toasted Italian sandwich recipe is a time-saver, ready in a mere 15 minutes from start to finish and ideal for those who crave a gourmet meal without the long wait or complicated steps.
- Packed with flavor: Indulge in the ultimate flavor medley of mortadella, soppressata, prosciutto, salami, mozzarella, and provolone blended together to create an unforgettable, mouthwatering experience with every bite.
- Customizable: Embrace the versatility of this recipe to please any palate. Whether you're adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the meats, this sandwich easily adapts to your dietary preferences while maintaining its delectable Italian flavor.
Toasted Italian Sandwich Ingredients
This toasted Italian sandwich calls for the best ingredients in your pantry! Imagine a spread of the finest Italian deli meats, rich cheeses, and fresh veggies.
Choose the best Italian bread you can find, and don't skimp on the cheese. Mozzarella and provolone are key players here.
Here’s the complete list of ingredients:
- 1 loaf Italian bread (12 to 15 inches)
- 6 to 8 slices each of mortadella, soppressata, prosciutto, and salami
- 6 to 8 slices each of mozzarella and provolone cheese
- 5 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons sliced banana peppers
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ small head of iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
10 Easy Steps To Making This Delicious Toasted Italian Sandwich
Step 1: Preheating the Broiler
Set your broiler to 400°F, and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to make cleaning up a breeze.
Step 2: Prepping the Loaf
Cut the Italian loaf lengthwise and arrange it cut-side up on your prepared sheet.
Step 3: Layering the Meats and Cheeses
Layer the deli meats generously on the bread's bottom half, ensuring even coverage for perfect bites. Cover the top half of the bread with slices of mozzarella and provolone, ready for melting.
Step 4: Broiling
Broil the assembled bread for 3 to 5 minutes, watching until the cheese is melted and the edges are toasted.
Step 5: Mixing the Dressing
While broiling, whisk mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, relish, and seasoning in a mixing bowl, adding salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Tossing the Other Ingredients
Add the banana peppers, sliced red onion, and shredded lettuce to the dressing, tossing well to coat.
Step 7: Layering the Dressing, Tomato, and Parmesan
Once toasted, remove the bread from the oven. Heap the dressed salad mix onto the meat, followed by ripe tomato slices and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Step 8: Serving
Cut the loaf into four substantial sandwiches and serve!
Expert Tips To Create The Perfect Toasted Italian Sandwich
- Preheat your baking sheet.
For an extra crispy base, place your baking sheet in the oven as it preheats. When you add your sandwich to the hot pan, it will start toasting the bottom of the bread immediately, ensuring a crunchy, well-toasted foundation.
- Bread selection is key.
Choose a high-quality, sturdy Italian bread that can withstand the weight and moisture of the fillings. A good crust will give you that satisfying crunch, while the inside stays soft after toasting.
- Balance your fillings.
Too much meat and cheese can overwhelm the bread and make the sandwich difficult to eat. Aim for a balance between the bread, meats, cheeses, and veggies for the perfect bite every time.
- Mind the moisture.
If you're adding dressings or wet ingredients like tomatoes, add them after toasting the bread with the meat and cheese. This keeps the bread from becoming soggy and maintains the sandwich's structure.
- Watch the broiler.
Broilers can vary in temperature and intensity. Keep a close eye on your sandwich as it toasts to avoid burning. The goal is melted cheese and a lightly toasted crust, not charred bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Prevent the Bread From Getting Soggy?
Toast the bread until it's nice and crispy to keep it from getting soggy when you add the salad mixture. For added protection, layer the cheese under the meats.
Can I Make This Sandwich in Advance?
It's best served immediately after broiling, but you can prepare the salad mixture and meats in advance. Assemble right before serving to maintain the perfect texture.
What if I Don't Have a Broiler?
To achieve similar results, you can use a toaster oven or a regular oven set to a high temperature. Keep an eye on the sandwich to avoid burning.
Can I Use Different Meats or Cheeses?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite deli meats or cheeses. This sandwich is all about personal preference and enjoying the flavors you love.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Sandwich?
For a vegetarian version, omit the meats and add more cheese and vegetables like roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf Italian bread 12 to 15 inches
- 6 to 8 slices each of mortadella soppressata, prosciutto, and salami
- 6 to 8 slices each of mozzarella and provolone cheese
- 5 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Sea salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons sliced banana peppers
- ½ small red onion thinly sliced
- ½ small head of iceberg lettuce thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Slice the Italian loaf in half and place on the baking sheet.
- Layer the deli meats on the bottom half and the cheeses on the top half.
- Broil for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheeses melt and the bread is crispy.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, vinegar, relish, and seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste.
- Add in banana peppers, red onion, and iceberg lettuce and toss to combine.
- Remove the bread from the oven. Layer the salad dressing on the meat and add tomato slices and grated Parmesan.
- Slice into four equal portions and serve.
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Layer on The Goodness With This Toasted Italian Recipe!
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Buon appetito!
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