Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s packed with layers of savory flavor.
The olive salad adds a tangy, briny kick.
It’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
It tastes even better after resting.
It’s ideal for picnics and make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 large round Italian sesame bread loaf
1/2 cup green olives, chopped
1/2 cup black olives, chopped
1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
2 tablespoons capers, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 pound sliced salami
1/4 pound sliced mortadella
1/4 pound sliced ham
1/4 pound sliced provolone cheese
1/4 pound sliced mozzarella cheese
Directions
- In a medium bowl, combine the green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, capers, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, and black pepper. Mix well and let sit for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Slice the round loaf of bread in half horizontally and hollow out a small portion of the soft interior to make room for the filling.
- Spread half of the olive salad evenly over the bottom half of the bread.
- Layer the salami, mortadella, and ham evenly over the olive mixture.
- Add the provolone and mozzarella slices on top of the meats.
- Spoon the remaining olive salad over the cheese layer.
- Place the top half of the bread over the filling and press down gently.
- Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Slice into wedges and serve.
Servings and timing
Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Prep time: 20 minutes
Rest time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Variations
Add sliced pepperoncini for extra tang.
Use focaccia instead of sesame bread for a softer texture.
Substitute turkey for ham if preferred.
Add a drizzle of olive oil before closing the sandwich for extra richness.
Include thinly sliced red onion for added crunch.
Make individual Muffaletta sandwiches using smaller rolls.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Muffaletta tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The flavors deepen as it rests, making leftovers especially delicious.
This sandwich is best served cold or at room temperature.
Freezing is not recommended, as the bread and olive salad texture may change.
FAQs
What makes a Muffaletta unique?
The signature olive salad and the round sesame loaf set it apart from other deli-style sandwiches.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better when made a few hours in advance to let the flavors meld.
Do I have to use all the meats listed?
No, you can customize the meat selection to your preference.
What type of bread works best?
A sturdy, round Italian sesame loaf holds the filling best.
Can I serve it warm?
Traditionally it’s served at room temperature, but it can be lightly warmed if desired.
How do I keep the sandwich from becoming soggy?
Drain the olive mixture well and avoid overloading with dressing.
Can I make a vegetarian version?
Yes, omit the meats and add grilled vegetables and extra cheese.
How long should it rest before serving?
At least one hour, but longer resting enhances the flavor.
Can I use store-bought olive tapenade?
Yes, though homemade olive salad gives a fresher flavor.
Is Muffaletta good for parties?
Yes, it’s perfect for gatherings since it can be sliced into wedges for easy serving.
Conclusion
Muffaletta is a bold, flavorful sandwich layered with savory meats, creamy cheeses, and a tangy olive salad that makes every bite memorable. Perfect for entertaining or preparing ahead, it’s a hearty and satisfying option that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Once you try this classic sandwich, it’s sure to become a favorite for any occasion.
PrintMuffaletta
Muffaletta is a hearty Italian-American sandwich layered with cured meats, sliced cheeses, and a tangy olive salad, all tucked inside a round sesame loaf. Originating in New Orleans, this bold and flavorful sandwich is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or make-ahead meals.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 large round Italian sesame bread loaf
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 1/2 cup black olives, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 pound sliced salami
- 1/4 pound sliced mortadella
- 1/4 pound sliced ham
- 1/4 pound sliced provolone cheese
- 1/4 pound sliced mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, capers, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, and black pepper. Mix well and let sit for at least 20 minutes.
- Slice the round loaf horizontally and hollow out a small portion of the soft interior.
- Spread half of the olive salad evenly over the bottom half of the bread.
- Layer salami, mortadella, and ham evenly over the olive mixture.
- Add provolone and mozzarella slices on top of the meats.
- Spoon the remaining olive salad evenly over the cheese layer.
- Place the top half of the bread over the filling and press down gently.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
- Slice into wedges and serve at room temperature.
Notes
- Letting the sandwich rest enhances flavor.
- Drain olive mixture well to prevent sogginess.
- Can be made several hours ahead for best results.
- Best served cold or at room temperature.
- Not recommended for freezing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 1450 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
