BEST BAKED ITALIAN GRINDER SANDWICHES
These Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches are a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed meal that's surprisingly easy to make. Savory Italian meats and provolone cheese are baked in a garlic-buttered crust and topped with a tangy, herby grinder salad. They are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Small bowl
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Oven
Ingredients
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
- 6 ounces salami, sliced
- 6 ounces ham, sliced
- 4 ounces pepperoni, sliced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped banana peppers
- ¼ cup chopped tomatoes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic.
- Brush the cut sides of the bread with the garlic butter.
- On the bottom half of the bread, layer half of the provolone cheese.
- Layer the salami, ham, and pepperoni evenly over the cheese.
- Top with the remaining provolone cheese.
- Place the sandwich on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While the sandwich is baking, prepare the grinder salad. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the shredded lettuce, red onion, banana peppers, and tomatoes.
- Toss to combine.
- Once the sandwich is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Top the meat and cheese with the grinder salad.
- Place the top half of the bread over the salad.
- Slice into individual sandwiches and serve immediately.
Notes
Don't overbake the bread; keep a close eye on it in the oven. Use high-quality ingredients for the best taste. Customize the grinder salad to your liking by adding olives, pickles, or hot sauce. Assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and bake when ready. Press the sandwich slightly after assembling to help the flavors meld. For a vegetarian option, use grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers with feta or goat cheese. To make it spicy, add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese. For a chicken grinder, use shredded chicken with barbecue or buffalo sauce. Substitute the ham with turkey for a slightly healthier option. Wrap individual slices tightly in foil after they have cooled for lunches.