Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sandwich is all about flavor and balance—salty meats, creamy cheese, tangy dressing, and crisp, fresh toppings. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping a quick lunch, the Italian sub hits every savory craving with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Hoagie rolls or sub sandwich rolls
- Genoa salami
- Capicola (or ham)
- Mortadella (or bologna)
- Provolone cheese slices
- Lettuce, shredded
- Tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Pepperoncini or banana peppers
- Italian dressing or oil and vinegar
- Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: mayonnaise, mustard, black olives
Directions
- Slice the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, leaving a hinge if preferred.
- If desired, lightly toast the rolls for extra texture.
- Spread mayonnaise or mustard on the inside of each roll, if using.
- Layer slices of Genoa salami, capicola, and mortadella onto the bottom half of each roll.
- Add provolone cheese slices on top of the meats.
- Top with shredded lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and pepperoncini or banana peppers.
- Drizzle generously with Italian dressing or a mix of olive oil and red wine vinegar.
- Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Close the sandwich and press gently. Cut in half if desired and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 sandwiches.
Prep time: 15 minutes
No cook time
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Toasted Melt: Toast the sandwich with meat and cheese open-faced before adding veggies.
- Spicy Kick: Add spicy giardiniera or a smear of hot pepper relish.
- Turkey Italian: Substitute turkey for a lighter version with the same Italian flair.
- Veggie Sub: Skip the meat and load up with grilled veggies, mozzarella, and pesto.
- Balsamic Glaze Finish: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a sweet tangy twist.
Storage/Reheating
This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh.
If you need to store it, wrap tightly in foil or parchment and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
To avoid sogginess, add the dressing just before serving.
Reheating is not recommended once veggies are added, but you can reheat the meat and cheese portion before assembling the rest.
FAQs
What meats are in a classic Italian sub?
Typically, it includes Genoa salami, capicola, and mortadella, though variations may also use ham or pepperoni.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but assemble without dressing and wet ingredients. Wrap tightly and refrigerate. Add the dressing just before serving.
What’s the best bread to use?
A sturdy hoagie roll or Italian sub roll that holds up to multiple layers is ideal.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, provolone is traditional, but mozzarella, Swiss, or even pepper jack work well.
How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?
Layer meats and cheese first, then place lettuce or tomato on top. Add dressing just before serving.
Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! Use roasted vegetables, provolone, and a tangy vinaigrette or pesto in place of the meats.
What’s the difference between an Italian sub and a hoagie?
A hoagie is a regional term; an Italian sub typically refers to one filled with Italian deli meats and toppings.
Can I use store-bought dressing?
Yes. A good-quality Italian dressing works great, or make your own with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, oregano, and a touch of salt.
Can I add pickles or olives?
Absolutely. Customize it with your favorite briny toppings for extra punch.
Do I need to toast the bread?
Toasting is optional but adds a nice crunch and helps the sandwich hold up longer.
Conclusion
The Classic Italian Sub is a timeless favorite that combines simple ingredients with bold flavor. Layered with savory meats, creamy cheese, and crisp veggies, it’s a no-fuss, all-flavor sandwich perfect for lunches, parties, or laid-back dinners. Once you taste the balance of textures and zesty toppings, you’ll understand why it’s a deli staple for good reason.
PrintClassic Italian Sub
The Classic Italian Sub is a bold, satisfying sandwich layered with Italian deli meats, provolone cheese, crisp veggies, and zesty dressing, all packed into a hearty sub roll. Perfect for lunch, parties, or casual dinners, this no-cook recipe is a timeless favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 4 hoagie rolls or sub sandwich rolls
- 8 slices Genoa salami
- 8 slices capicola or ham
- 8 slices mortadella or bologna
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup pepperoncini or banana peppers
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing or olive oil & red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: mayonnaise, mustard, black olives
Instructions
Slice hoagie rolls in half lengthwise, leaving a hinge if desired.
- Lightly toast rolls, if preferred.
- Spread mayonnaise or mustard on the inside of each roll (optional).
- Layer salami, capicola, and mortadella onto the bottom half of each roll.
- Top with provolone cheese slices.
- Add shredded lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, and pepperoncini or banana peppers.
- Drizzle with Italian dressing or oil and vinegar.
- Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Close sandwich, press gently, cut in half if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Add dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Toasting enhances flavor and texture but is optional.
- Layer meats and cheese below the veggies to help keep bread from getting soggy.
- Customize with olives, pickles, or spicy condiments as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1380mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
