Muffaletta Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sandwich isn’t your average deli lunch — it’s a flavor-packed, make-ahead dream that gets better as it sits. Perfect for picnics, parties, or game day spreads, the Muffaletta feeds a crowd and holds up well for hours without getting soggy. It’s also easy to customize and doesn’t require any cooking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

round sesame loaf or Italian bread
green olives
kalamata olives
roasted red peppers
giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables)
capers
garlic
olive oil
red wine vinegar
dried oregano
salami
ham
mortadella (or substitute with more ham or bologna)
provolone cheese
mozzarella cheese
black pepper

Directions

1. Start by making the olive salad. In a food processor, pulse green olives, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, giardiniera, capers, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano until coarsely chopped. Let the mixture sit for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
2. Slice the sesame loaf horizontally. If needed, hollow out a little of the inside to make room for the fillings.
3. Spread a generous layer of olive salad on the bottom half of the bread, making sure to include some of the oil.
4. Layer on the meats: salami, ham, and mortadella.
5. Add slices of provolone and mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with more olive salad and the top half of the bread.
7. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and press it with a heavy pan or dish. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours to let the flavors soak in.
8. Slice into wedges and serve cold or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6 to 8
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 1 to 24 hours
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes (minimum)

Variations

• Use ciabatta or focaccia instead of traditional round bread.
• Try turkey or roast beef as alternative meats.
• Add arugula or spinach for a bit of green.
• Make mini muffalettas using individual sandwich rolls.
• Use a vegetarian filling like grilled vegetables with cheese and olive salad.

Storage/Reheating

Wrap any leftover sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended, as it may cause the olive salad and meats to lose their texture and flavor.

FAQs

What makes a Muffaletta different from a regular sandwich?

The unique olive salad and round sesame loaf set it apart, along with its pressed and chilled preparation.

Can I make the olive salad ahead of time?

Yes, and it’s even better that way. Letting it marinate overnight deepens the flavor.

What bread should I use if I can’t find traditional muffaletta bread?

Look for a round Italian loaf or focaccia with a firm crust and soft interior.

Is the sandwich served hot or cold?

Traditionally, it’s served cold or at room temperature, though some enjoy it warm.

Can I substitute any of the meats?

Yes, you can use bologna, turkey, or roast beef if preferred.

How long should I press the sandwich?

At least 1 hour, but longer (up to 24 hours) enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I freeze Muffaletta sandwiches?

Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the olive salad and meats.

What’s the best way to transport it for a picnic?

Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it in a cooler. It travels well and doesn’t get soggy.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, skip the meats and add grilled veggies, more cheese, and the olive salad.

What sides go well with a Muffaletta?

Potato chips, pickles, coleslaw, or a simple green salad are great accompaniments.

Conclusion

The Muffaletta Sandwich is a bold, satisfying dish that brings together layers of flavor and texture in every bite. With its hearty ingredients, make-ahead convenience, and rich New Orleans history, it’s a standout option for gatherings, lunches, or casual dinners. Try it once, and it’ll become a go-to favorite whenever you want something truly special.

Muffaletta Sandwich

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The Muffaletta Sandwich is a New Orleans classic made with layers of Italian deli meats, cheeses, and a tangy olive salad on a round sesame loaf. This bold, make-ahead sandwich is perfect for picnics, parties, or a hearty lunch.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including chill time)
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1 round sesame loaf or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup green olives
• 1/2 cup kalamata olives
• 1/3 cup roasted red peppers
• 1/3 cup giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables)
• 1 tbsp capers
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 4 oz salami, sliced
• 4 oz ham, sliced
• 4 oz mortadella (or more ham or bologna), sliced
• 4 oz provolone cheese, sliced
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a food processor, pulse green olives, kalamata olives, roasted red peppers, giardiniera, capers, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano until coarsely chopped. Let sit for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
2. Slice the sesame loaf horizontally and hollow out some of the bread to make room for the filling if needed.
3. Spread a generous amount of the olive salad on the bottom half of the bread, including some of the oil.
4. Layer the salami, ham, and mortadella evenly over the olive salad.
5. Add provolone and mozzarella slices on top of the meats.
6. Spread more olive salad over the top layer, then place the top half of the bread back on.
7. Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap. Press it under a heavy dish or pan and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
8. Unwrap, slice into wedges, and serve cold or at room temperature.

Notes

• Letting the olive salad marinate enhances flavor.
• Pressing the sandwich helps meld flavors and makes it easier to slice.
• Use ciabatta or focaccia if sesame loaf is unavailable.
• Make it vegetarian with grilled vegetables and cheese.
• Wrap tightly for transport — great picnic sandwich.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 wedge
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 1050mg
• Fat: 33g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg