Italian Sub Squares: A Flavorful Twist on the Classic Sandwich
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of an Italian sub sandwich, look no further than Italian Sub Squares. These savory, layered squares are packed with all your favorite Italian deli meats, cheeses, and condiments, but in a portable and easy-to-eat form. Perfect for a picnic, game day, or casual get-together, these Italian Sub Squares are sure to be a hit with everyone!
For more delicious and easy sandwich-inspired recipes, check out our Sandwich Recipe Collection, or try our other savory squares here.
Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions
This simple recipe will guide you through the steps to create mouthwatering Italian Sub Squares. They are easy to assemble, making them a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 1 package (16 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
The Filling:
- 8 ounces sliced Italian deli meats (such as salami, pepperoni, and ham)
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Italian dressing
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently stretch and press the dough to fit the bottom of the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom completely. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little flour to prevent sticking. Press the dough slightly up the sides of the dish.
- Layer the Ingredients: Begin layering your ingredients on top of the dough. Start with a layer of deli meats (salami, pepperoni, and ham), followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses. Add the sliced onions, roasted red peppers, black olives, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. If you’re using fresh basil, add that on top as well.
- Add the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Italian dressing, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Drizzle this sauce evenly over the layered ingredients.
- Top with More Dough: Roll out another sheet of dough (about the same size as the first one) and carefully place it on top of the filling, covering the ingredients completely. Pinch the edges of the dough to seal the squares.
- Bake the Squares: Brush the top of the dough with a little olive oil to help it brown during baking. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is fully cooked.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the Italian Sub Squares to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve these delicious squares warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed as a main dish or served as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Advanced Techniques for Perfecting Your Italian Sub Squares
While the recipe for Italian Sub Squares is straightforward, here are a few pro tips to elevate the flavors and texture:
Customize the Filling
Feel free to get creative with the fillings. You can add other Italian deli meats like capicola or mortadella for extra flavor. Additionally, for a more decadent bite, consider adding a thin layer of pesto sauce on top of the mayo mixture to enhance the overall taste.
Make Your Own Dough
For an even more authentic experience, you can make your own pizza dough or use a store-bought dough alternative like puff pastry for a flakier texture. Homemade dough will give you a more personalized touch and can be adjusted to your liking.
Preheat the Baking Dish
For a crispier bottom crust, preheat your baking dish in the oven for a few minutes before adding the dough. This helps the dough cook more evenly and crisps up beautifully.
Let It Rest Before Cutting
After baking, let the squares cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This step allows the layers to firm up, so you get cleaner slices without the filling spilling out.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips
These Italian Sub Squares are great for making ahead of time and storing for later.
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let the squares cool completely before storing to prevent condensation inside the container.
Reheating the Squares
Reheat Italian Sub Squares in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual squares for a quicker option.
Freezing the Squares
To make these squares ahead of time, assemble them but don’t bake them. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow the dish to thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as per the instructions.
Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions
If you’re following a specific diet, here are some substitutions you can make to suit your preferences:
Gluten-Free
For a gluten-free version, substitute the pizza dough with a gluten-free pizza crust or gluten-free bread dough. Be sure to double-check that all the deli meats and sauces are gluten-free as well.
Dairy-Free
For a dairy-free version, substitute the mozzarella and provolone cheeses with a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also make your own cashew cheese or use a store-bought dairy-free cream cheese to make a creamy topping.
Low-Carb
To make this recipe low-carb, replace the pizza dough with a low-carb option, such as almond flour dough or cauliflower crust. You can also reduce the number of condiments and focus on the proteins and vegetables.
Vegetarian
For a vegetarian version, omit the deli meats and increase the amount of vegetables, such as adding spinach, zucchini, or artichokes. Use a plant-based cheese to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
FAQs About The Recipe
Can I use a different type of bread for the crust?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of bread for the crust. Ciabatta or Italian bread could be used, or you could even try making a biscuit-style crust for a unique twist.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Italian Sub Squares the night before, then bake them the following day. This will save you time on the day you need them, and the flavors will have time to meld together.
Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, you can freeze both the unbaked and baked Italian Sub Squares. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to preserve their freshness.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
These Italian Sub Squares offer a delicious, bite-sized take on a classic Italian sub sandwich. With layers of savory meats, melty cheeses, and bold flavors, this recipe is perfect for a crowd or a fun family meal. Whether served as an appetizer, main course, or snack, these squares are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.