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Close-up of delicious Baked Italian Grinder Sandwiches, showcasing melted cheese and toasted bread.

BEST BAKED ITALIAN GRINDER SANDWICHES

This recipe creates a delicious and melty baked Italian grinder sandwich with layers of cheese, savory deli meats, and a tangy grinder dressing. The baking process melds the flavors together, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying sandwich experience.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories: 800
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large loaf of Italian bread ciabatta or hoagie style
  • 8 oz provolone cheese, sliced
  • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese optional
  • 4 oz salami, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz pepperoni, thinly sliced
  • 4 oz ham, thinly sliced
  • 2 oz capicola, thinly sliced optional
  • 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
  • 1/4 cup banana peppers, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Medium bowl
  • small bowl
  • whisk
  • Spoon
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the loaf of Italian bread horizontally, creating a top and bottom half.
  2. On the bottom half of the bread, layer the provolone cheese, followed by the mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese, if using.
  3. Arrange the salami, pepperoni, ham, and capicola (if using) evenly over the cheese.
  4. Place the bottom half of the sandwich (uncovered) on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the meat is heated through.
  5. While the sandwich is baking, in a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  6. Once the bottom half of the sandwich is baked, remove it from the oven. Immediately top with the shredded lettuce, red onion, and banana peppers. Drizzle the "grinder" dressing evenly over the toppings.
  7. Place the top half of the bread over the filled bottom half.
  8. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush the top of the bread with this mixture.
  9. For a crispier top, return the assembled sandwich to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown. Alternatively, you can skip this step for a softer crust.
  10. Remove the sandwich from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into individual portions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For a spicier grinder, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. You can also add other toppings like tomatoes or pickles. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.