Toasted Italian Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Toasted Italian Sandwich is a savory, satisfying option perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Packed with flavorful deli meats, melted cheese, and zesty Italian dressing, all nestled in a crusty toasted roll, this sandwich offers a bold, hearty bite with every mouthful. It’s easy to make, customizable, and always hits the spot.

ingredients

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

Italian sandwich rollssalamihampepperoniprovologne cheeselettucetomatoonionbanana pepper slicesmayonnaiseItalian dressingbutter (for toasting)oregano (optional)

directions

Preheat a skillet or sandwich press to medium heat.

Slice the sandwich rolls in half lengthwise and lightly butter the outside surfaces.

Spread mayonnaise on the inside of the rolls, then layer salami, ham, and pepperoni.

Add slices of provolone cheese on top of the meats.

Top with lettuce, tomato, onion, and banana peppers.

Drizzle Italian dressing over the fillings and sprinkle with oregano if using.

Close the sandwich and place in the skillet or sandwich press.

Toast until the outside is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 4-5 minutes per side if using a skillet.

Remove, slice in half if desired, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 sandwiches.Preparation time: 10 minutesToasting time: 8-10 minutesTotal time: 18-20 minutes

Variations

Use turkey or roast beef for a different flavor profile.

Add pickles or olives for a tangy twist.

Swap the Italian dressing for balsamic glaze or pesto for a gourmet touch.

Use ciabatta or focaccia instead of standard sandwich rolls.

Make it spicy by adding hot giardiniera or crushed red pepper flakes.

storage/reheating

Store any leftover sandwiches in foil in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisped, about 10 minutes.Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the bread soggy.

Toasted Italian Sandwich

FAQs

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, toast just before serving to maintain the crisp texture.

What kind of cheese works best?

Provolone is traditional, but mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack also work well.

Is this sandwich served hot or cold?

It’s best served hot to enjoy the melted cheese and crispy bread.

Can I use a panini press?

Absolutely, it’s perfect for pressing and evenly toasting the sandwich.

Are there vegetarian options?

Yes, omit the meat and use grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and roasted red peppers with cheese.

What’s the best bread for this sandwich?

Crusty rolls like hoagie, Italian, or ciabatta work well for holding up to the fillings and toasting.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free rolls and check all other ingredients for gluten content.

How do I avoid soggy sandwiches?

Toast the sandwich right before serving and avoid overloading with wet ingredients.

What can I serve with this?

Chips, a side salad, or a cup of soup make great accompaniments.

Can I freeze this sandwich?

It’s not recommended, as freezing and reheating may affect the texture of the bread and vegetables.

Conclusion

The Toasted Italian Sandwich is a bold and flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and endlessly customizable. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner, it brings the classic tastes of Italy into a handheld delight. Once you try it toasted and melty, you’ll keep coming back for more.

Print
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Toasted Italian Sandwich

Toasted Italian Sandwich

  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 1 sandwich
  • Category: Sandwich
  • Method: Toasting/Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A flavorful toasted sandwich filled with ham, salami, cheese, and fresh veggies, melted to perfection and drizzled with Italian dressing.


Ingredients

  • 2 slices Italian bread or ciabatta roll
  • 2 tbsp Italian dressing
  • 2 slices provolone cheese
  • 2 slices ham
  • 2 slices salami
  • 2 tbsp chopped tomato
  • 2 tbsp chopped red onion
  • 1 tbsp sliced pepperoncini (optional)
  • 1 tbsp mixed greens or lettuce
  • 1 tbsp butter (for toasting)


Instructions

  1. Preheat panini press or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Slice the bread open and brush both inside surfaces with Italian dressing.
  3. Layer provolone cheese, ham, salami, tomato, red onion, pepperoncini, and greens on one side of the bread.
  4. Close the sandwich and spread butter on the outside of both bread slices.
  5. Place sandwich in panini press or skillet. If using skillet, press down with spatula or weight.
  6. Cook for 3–5 minutes until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, flipping halfway if using skillet.
  7. Remove, slice in half, serve immediately.

Notes

  • Substitute mozzarella for provolone if preferred.
  • Add a dash of Italian seasoning or oregano for extra flavor.
  • Wrap sandwich in foil before toasting for easier press and melting.
  • Customize with roasted red peppers or fresh basil.