Italian Sub Brunch Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the best of both worlds: a hearty Italian sub and a comforting breakfast casserole.
• Great for gatherings: Feeds a crowd and can be prepped ahead of time.
• Flavor-packed: Filled with savory meats, cheeses, and zesty Italian seasoning.
• Easy to customize with your favorite deli ingredients.
• Perfectly balanced: Crispy edges, creamy center, and layers of melty cheese.

Ingredients

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

• Italian or French bread (cubed, day-old preferred)
• Deli meats such as salami, ham, and pepperoni (sliced or chopped)
• Provolone cheese (shredded or sliced)
• Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
• Black olives (optional, sliced)
• Eggs
• Milk or half-and-half
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter (for greasing the dish)
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the bread layer: Spread cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the dish.
3. Add meats and vegetables: Layer salami, ham, pepperoni, roasted red peppers, onions, and olives over the bread.
4. Add cheese: Sprinkle both mozzarella and provolone evenly over the top.
5. Make the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Assemble the casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, pressing lightly so the bread soaks up the custard.
7. Rest (optional): For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight.
8. Bake: Uncover and bake for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden and the center is set.
9. Cool and serve: Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6–8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 45 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour (plus optional chilling time)

Variations

• Spicy Italian Casserole: Add banana peppers or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and add spinach, artichokes, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Caprese Style: Add sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a lighter Italian flavor.
• Extra Meaty: Double the deli meats for a protein-packed brunch bake.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace bread with roasted cauliflower or zucchini slices.
• Mini Casseroles: Bake in individual ramekins for personal servings.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked and cooled portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat:
  • Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat individual portions for 45–60 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole the night before?

Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning for the best texture.

What kind of bread works best?

A sturdy bread like Italian, French, or ciabatta holds up well and soaks in the egg mixture without becoming mushy.

Can I use different meats?

Absolutely. Try prosciutto, capicola, or turkey for a personalized twist.

Do I have to use both cheeses?

No, but the mix of provolone and mozzarella gives it that signature Italian sub flavor and melt.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

Use day-old bread and avoid adding too much milk. Let it rest after baking to firm up.

Can I add veggies?

Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, artichokes, or mushrooms all make great additions.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The casserole should be golden brown on top and the center should be set—no jiggling when you shake the dish lightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and dairy-free cheese substitutes for a lactose-free version.

What can I serve with it?

A fresh green salad, fruit salad, or roasted potatoes make great side dishes.

Can I reheat leftovers for lunch?

Yes, it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

Conclusion

Italian Sub Brunch Casserole is the ultimate savory breakfast bake that transforms your favorite deli flavors into a warm, comforting, and cheesy dish. With layers of bread, meats, and cheese baked to perfection, it’s perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or anytime you want a meal that feels indulgent yet effortless. Serve it hot, fresh, and full of Italian flair for a crowd-pleasing brunch centerpiece.

Italian Sub Brunch Casserole

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Italian Sub Brunch Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed breakfast bake inspired by the classic Italian sub. Layered with crusty bread, deli meats, melty cheese, and a savory egg custard, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for brunches, holidays, or weekend gatherings.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (plus optional chilling time)
• Yield: 6–8 servings
• Category: Brunch, Breakfast Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

• 1 loaf Italian or French bread, cubed (day-old preferred)
• 1 cup deli meats (such as salami, , and pepperoni), chopped
• 1 cup provolone cheese, shredded or sliced
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk or half-and-half
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil or butter, for greasing
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Prepare bread base: Spread cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the dish.
3. Add meats and vegetables: Layer chopped salami, pepperoni, red onions, roasted peppers, and olives over the bread.
4. Add cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and provolone evenly over the top.
5. Make egg custard: In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Assemble casserole: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layered ingredients, pressing gently so the bread absorbs the liquid.
7. Rest (optional): Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor.
8. Bake: Uncover and bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and the center is set.
9. Cool and serve: Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley or basil.

Notes

• Use sturdy bread like Italian, French, or ciabatta for the best texture.
• Day-old bread absorbs the egg mixture without getting soggy.
• Customize with your favorite deli meats and cheeses.
• Make ahead: Assemble the night before and bake fresh in the morning.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/8 of casserole)
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 215mg