Irresistible Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches Recipe

There’s nothing quite like biting into a warm, melty, mouthwatering Italian sub fresh from the oven—this recipe is the very definition of irresistible! Layers of savory deli meats, gooey cheese, and zesty pepperoncini all tucked inside a golden, toasted hoagie roll… pure sandwich bliss.

What makes this recipe a must-try? It’s a total crowd-pleaser, ridiculously easy to prep ahead, and the bold Italian flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds. Think weeknight family dinners, epic game days, or that potluck where you want zero leftovers.

I was inspired to create these after falling in love with my local deli’s oven-baked hoagies—but you’ll find this homemade version is even better, thanks to the perfect marriage of crispy, cheesy, and satisfyingly savory.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Melty, cheesy perfection: Each bite oozes with gooey provolone and mozzarella.
• Serious flavor punch: Three classic Italian deli meats seasoned with Italian herbs and tangy dressing.
• Feeds a crowd effortlessly: Simple to make a big batch, perfect for gatherings.
• Quick & easy assembly: Just layer, bake, and dig in—minimal prep, maximum payoff.

Key Ingredients for Irresistible Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Hoagie Rolls

These sturdy, fluffy rolls are key—they hold up beautifully under all those layers without getting soggy. Look for 6-inch sub rolls with a nice snap to the crust. If you can’t find hoagie rolls, sturdy French rolls or even ciabatta will work. Avoid soft white sandwich bread, as it can fall apart when baking.

Italian Deli Meats

A classic trio of Genoa salami, deli ham, and mortadella brings authentic flavor and hearty texture. Get meats sliced thin for even baking and easy stacking. Don’t have mortadella? Substitute capicola, turkey, or just double up on ham.

Provolone & Mozzarella Cheese

Provolone adds that signature sharp richness, while mozzarella melts perfectly for stretch and creaminess. Feel free to use all provolone or replace mozzarella with fontina or Monterey Jack for a twist.

Italian Dressing

This brings zesty tang and moisture, soaking into the bread for a next-level bite. Use your favorite store-bought or homemade dressing. Balsamic vinaigrette or even a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar makes a solid sub-in.

Pepperoncini

Sliced pepperoncini adds a bright, pickled zip that cuts the richness of the meats and cheese. Not a fan of heat? Jarred banana peppers are milder but deliver similar crunch and tang. Leave them out for a kid-friendlier sandwich.

Instructions for Irresistible Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.

Prep the Hoagie Rolls

Slice the hoagie rolls in half (without cutting all the way through), and arrange them open-face on the baking sheet. Lightly brush the insides with melted butter, then sprinkle evenly with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for that extra flavor boost.

Layer the Meats & Cheese

Layer a slice each of salami, ham, and mortadella onto each roll. Top with provolone cheese, shredded mozzarella, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. Scatter red onion slices and pepperoncini over the cheese.

Drizzle with Dressing

Drizzle about two teaspoons of Italian dressing inside each sandwich. The dressing soaks into the bread and brings all the flavors together.

Bake the Sandwiches

Close the hoagie rolls (gently press them, but don’t squish). Loosely tent with foil (to keep cheese from sticking), and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake 7-10 minutes longer, until cheese is bubbly and tops are golden.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven. If desired, open each sandwich and add shredded lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a classic finish. Serve hot and enjoy immediately for peak melty deliciousness!

Recipe Variations

Swap the Meats

Get creative with your deli choices! Try spicy capicola or pepperoni for a bolder bite, or use smoked turkey for a lighter twist. Any combo of Italian cold cuts works.

Go Vegetarian

Skip the meats and load up with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Add some marinated artichoke hearts for an extra punch of flavor.

Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free sub rolls or sturdy gluten-free buns. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free—just double-check your dressing label.

Spicy Kick

Scatter sliced hot cherry peppers or a spoonful of giardiniera into each sub before baking for a fiery Italian-American spin.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Assemble the sandwiches up to the point of baking, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake just before serving for stress-free hosting!

Serving Suggestions

These baked Italian subs are hearty on their own, but they pair perfectly with a crisp Italian salad tossed with vinaigrette and a pile of kettle-cooked chips or baked fries. Garnish with extra pepperoncini and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, colorful look.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover sandwiches tightly wrapped in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them (still wrapped) in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. For crispier bread, unwrap for the last few minutes. Freezing is possible, although best before adding lettuce and tomatoes—just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat as above.

Frequently Asked Questions About Irresistible Baked Italian Sub Sandwiches Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I make these baked Italian subs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Assemble the sandwiches (without lettuce/tomatoes), cover, and refrigerate up to 12 hours ahead. Bake right before serving for best texture.

Q: What’s the best bread for baked Italian subs?
A: Use sturdy hoagie or sub rolls that can handle lots of fillings. French rolls or ciabatta work too, just avoid overly soft bread.

Q: Can I customize the fillings to my family’s tastes?
A: Totally! Swap in different meats, cheeses, or even roasted veggies—this recipe is super flexible.

These baked Italian subs are the ultimate in comfort and convenience—cheesy, hearty, and loaded with bold flavor. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe at your next gathering or easy weeknight dinner! If you loved it, please leave a comment or rating below to let me know how it turned out. Happy sandwich making!