Description
These Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches are loaded with layers of provolone cheese, Italian deli meats, and vibrant toppings like roasted red peppers, banana peppers, and olives. Brushed with olive oil and baked until the cheese melts perfectly, they make a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 4 Italian sub rolls or hoagie rolls
Cheese
- 8 slices of provolone cheese
Meats
- 1/2 pound sliced ham
- 1/2 pound sliced Genoa salami
- 1/4 pound sliced pepperoni
Vegetables and Toppings
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced banana peppers
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
Condiments and Seasonings
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the sandwiches.
- Prepare Rolls: Slice the Italian sub rolls in half lengthwise without cutting all the way through so they open like a book, making them easier to fill.
- Make Seasoned Mayo: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread this mixture evenly inside each sub roll to add flavor and moisture.
- Add Cheese: Layer 2 slices of provolone cheese on the bottom half of each roll to create a cheesy base.
- Layer Meats: Evenly distribute the ham, Genoa salami, and pepperoni slices over the cheese for rich Italian flavors.
- Add Vegetables: Spread the roasted red peppers, red onion slices, banana peppers, and black olives evenly on top of the meats to add freshness and zing.
- Close Sandwiches: Place the top half of each roll over the fillings and press down gently to secure the layers in place.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the tops of the sandwiches with olive oil to enhance browning and flavor.
- Wrap in Foil: Wrap each sandwich securely in aluminum foil to keep them moist during baking.
- Bake Sandwiches: Place the wrapped sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the sandwiches are thoroughly heated.
- Serve: Carefully remove the sandwiches from the oven, unwrap from foil, and serve hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- You can substitute provolone cheese with mozzarella or mozzarella-provolone blends for variation.
- Adjust the quantity of peppers and olives based on your preference for spice and tang.
- Wrapping the sandwiches tightly in foil ensures even heating and prevents drying out.
- These sandwiches can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
- For a crispier top, unwrap the foil during the last 3-5 minutes of baking.
