Hot, melty, and packed with classic Italian flavors, these baked Italian subs are one of my favorite quick meals to prepare. I love how the bread gets perfectly toasted while the cheese melts into the layers of savory meats. It is simple, fast, and always satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it takes everyday ingredients and turns them into a warm, hearty sandwich that tastes like it came straight from an Italian deli. I like how quickly it comes together, and I can easily customize it with the toppings and cheeses I prefer. It is also perfect for weeknights, game days, or when I need something filling without a lot of effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 sub rolls or Italian hoagie buns
8 slices salami
8 slices pepperoni
8 slices provolone cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup banana peppers or pepperoncini
1 tomato, sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Italian dressing (optional)
Directions
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
I slice the rolls lengthwise without cutting them apart completely.
I brush the inside of each roll with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
I layer the salami and pepperoni evenly inside each roll.
I place provolone slices on top and add a handful of shredded mozzarella.
I add red onion and banana peppers for extra flavor and texture.
I drizzle a little Italian dressing inside if I want an extra tangy kick.
I place the sandwiches on the baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the rolls turn golden.
I add tomato slices after baking if I’m using them, close the sandwiches, and serve warm.
Servings And Timing
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add sliced black olives for a salty bite.
I use Swiss or pepper jack cheese when I want something different from provolone.
I spread garlic butter inside the rolls before adding the fillings for a richer flavor.
I make a spicy version by adding crushed red pepper flakes or spicy giardiniera.
I add shredded lettuce after baking for a fresh crunch.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover sandwiches wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
I reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the bread crisp and the cheese melted.
I avoid reheating them in the microwave because it makes the bread soft.
FAQs
Can I prepare the sandwiches ahead of time?
I can assemble them a few hours ahead, but I wait to add tomatoes or other wet ingredients until after baking.
Can I use a different type of bread?
I often substitute French rolls or ciabatta when I don’t have sub rolls.
Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Yes, I set the air fryer to 350°F and heat the sandwiches for 5–7 minutes.
Can I make these vegetarian?
I replace the meats with roasted vegetables like peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini.
What cheeses work best for melting?
I find provolone melts smoothly, while mozzarella adds a nice stretchy texture, so I like combining them.
Conclusion
I enjoy how easy, hearty, and flavorful these baked Italian subs are, making them one of my go-to meals when I want something warm and satisfying. The crisp bread, melty cheese, and savory layers create a sandwich I always come back to. If you want, I can create a recipe card version as well.
These Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches are warm, melty, and packed with layers of savory deli meats, melty cheese, and tangy peppers — all toasted to perfection for a satisfying meal.
Total Time:25 minutes
Yield:4 sandwiches
Ingredients
4 sub rolls or Italian hoagie buns
8 slices salami
8 slices pepperoni
8 slices provolone cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup banana peppers or pepperoncini
1 tomato, sliced (optional)
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Italian dressing (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
Slice the sub rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through.
Brush the inside of each roll with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Layer salami and pepperoni evenly inside each roll.
Top with provolone slices and a generous amount of shredded mozzarella.
Add red onion slices and banana peppers or pepperoncini.
Drizzle with Italian dressing if using.
Place the sandwiches on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the rolls are golden.
Top with tomato slices if desired, close the sandwiches, and serve warm.
Notes
Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispness.
Customize with different cheeses or add garlic butter for more flavor.
Add fresh toppings like lettuce after baking for a cool crunch.
Make vegetarian by using roasted vegetables instead of meats.
