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Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches Recipe

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4.9 from 98 reviews

Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches are a flavorful and satisfying meal featuring layers of deli meats, cheeses, and vibrant vegetables, topped with a fragrant herb butter and baked to perfection. This easy-to-make sandwich is perfect for lunch or dinner, combining classic Italian ingredients with a crispy, warm finish.

Ingredients

Bread and Butter Mixture

  • 1 loaf Italian sub rolls
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Meats

  • 1/2 pound deli-sliced salami
  • 1/2 pound deli-sliced ham
  • 1/2 pound deli-sliced pepperoni

Cheeses

  • 1/2 pound deli-sliced mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 pound deli-sliced provolone cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables and Garnishes

  • 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup banana peppers, sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the sandwiches.
  2. Prepare the Rolls: Slice the Italian sub rolls in half lengthwise carefully, keeping them hinged at the bottom so they stay connected.
  3. Place Rolls on Baking Sheet: Position the rolls cut side up on a baking sheet, making sure there is enough space between them for even baking.
  4. Make Herb Butter: In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter using the microwave or stovetop. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the melted butter. Stir well until all seasonings are thoroughly blended.
  5. Brush Herb Butter: Generously brush the seasoned butter on both halves of each roll to impart rich flavor and help create a crispy texture.
  6. Layer Meats: Evenly distribute the deli-sliced salami on the bottom half of each sandwich. Follow with a layer of deli-sliced ham, then a complete layer of deli-sliced pepperoni on top.
  7. Add Cheeses: Place a layer of mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni, spreading it evenly. Follow with a layer of provolone cheese. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra savory notes.
  8. Add Vegetables: Scatter the sliced roasted red peppers, black olives, and banana peppers evenly over the cheese layers. Finally, add fresh basil leaves to impart freshness and color.
  9. Bake the Sandwiches: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese melts and the bread becomes slightly crispy.
  10. Cool and Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Carefully cut into individual portions with a serrated knife. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious baked Italian grinder sandwiches!

Notes

  • Ensure the sandwich rolls are hinged and not sliced completely through to hold all ingredients together during baking.
  • You can customize the meats or cheeses according to your preference or dietary needs.
  • For added moisture, you may add a light spread of Italian dressing before layering the meats and cheeses.
  • Leftover sandwiches can be wrapped tightly and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven for best results.
  • If you prefer a spicier sandwich, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.