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A close-up showcases a delicious baked Italian grinder sandwich, oozing with melted cheese and savory fillings, perfect for a hearty meal.
Isabella

BEST BAKED ITALIAN GRINDER SANDWICHES

These Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches feature layers of savory Italian meats, melted provolone cheese, and a tangy, herby dressing baked inside a crusty Italian loaf. Perfect for gatherings, they offer a delicious and easy-to-serve comfort food experience that's sure to become a new favorite.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 800
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large loaf about 24 inches
  • 1/2 pound thinly sliced ham
  • 1/2 pound thinly sliced salami
  • 1/2 pound thinly sliced pepperoni
  • 1/2 pound thinly sliced provolone cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped banana peppers
  • Sesame seeds optional
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter optional

Equipment

  • Large serrated knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • whisk
  • baking sheet
  • parchment paper
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Stir in the shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, and chopped banana peppers.
  4. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dressing for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  6. Carefully slice the Italian bread horizontally, creating a top and bottom half.
  7. On the bottom half of the bread, layer the ham, salami, and pepperoni evenly.
  8. Top the meats with the provolone cheese slices, covering the entire surface.
  9. Generously spread the chilled grinder salad dressing over the cheese.
  10. Place the top half of the bread over the dressing.
  11. Brush the top of the bread with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds (optional).
  12. Place the assembled sandwich on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. Remove the sandwich from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  14. Using a serrated knife, slice the sandwich into individual portions. Serve immediately.

Notes

A good quality Italian loaf is key! Don't overfill the sandwich. Customize your filling with prosciutto, capicola, or mozzarella. Add cayenne pepper for extra heat. Assemble the sandwich ahead of time, but add the dressing just before baking to prevent sogginess. Lightly toast the bread before adding fillings to prevent soggy bread. Broil for a minute or two at the end of baking if the cheese isn't melting evenly. Store leftover sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.