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Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches

Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches

Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches are a hearty and flavorful sandwich featuring layers of Italian cold cuts, provolone cheese, and fresh veggies, baked to a golden, crispy perfection. This classic Italian-American dish delivers a satisfying blend of melty cheese, savory meats, and crunchy bread, making it perfect for a comforting dinner or an impressive meal for gatherings. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, these sandwiches offer a nostalgic and unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 sturdy Italian bread loaf (roll or baguette)

Meats and Cheese

  • Assorted Italian cold cuts: salami, ham, and capicola, layered generously
  • Slices of provolone cheese

Fresh Vegetables

  • Crisp lettuce leaves
  • Tomato slices
  • Thinly sliced onions

Seasonings and Condiments

  • Olive oil, for drizzling
  • Italian seasoning, sprinkled
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red wine vinegar, a splash

Instructions

  1. Prep the Bread: Slice the Italian bread loaf lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through so it holds together. Lightly toast the interior to add structure and prevent sogginess once fillings are added.
  2. Layer the Meats and Cheese: Generously layer salami, capicola, and ham evenly along the bottom half of the bread. Top with slices of provolone cheese to create that signature gooey center once baked.
  3. Add Fresh Vegetables and Seasonings: Scatter fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and thin onion rings over the cheese. Drizzle with olive oil, add a splash of red wine vinegar, then sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance all layers.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Close the sandwich and wrap it tightly in foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden and crispy. For extra crunch on top, finish with a few minutes under the broiler if desired.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, slice into portions, and serve hot with your favorite sides or garnishes to complete the meal.

Notes

  • Choose sturdy bread like a firm Italian roll to keep the sandwich intact during baking without sogginess.
  • Bake the sandwich wrapped in foil to trap moisture and ensure the cheese melts evenly.
  • Avoid overloading fillings to maintain a balanced and manageable sandwich.
  • Use fresh, high-quality deli meats for the best flavor.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs after baking to preserve their vibrant aroma and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: Baked Italian Grinder Sandwich, Italian sandwich, Italian cold cuts, provolone sandwich, baked sandwich, warm Italian sub