Italian Sub Squares: The Ultimate Baked Deli Delight

Hi I'm Emma

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on

When it comes to party appetizers or easy family meals, few dishes can match the simplicity and flavor of Italian Sub Squares. This baked take on the classic Italian sub delivers layers of deli meats, cheeses, and zesty seasonings in a flaky crescent roll crust. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a potluck, or just looking for a satisfying dinner option, these savory squares are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Italian Sub Squares—from their origins and variations to expert tips, FAQs, and serving suggestions.

Why Italian Sub Squares Are a Must-Try Dish

1. A Unique Twist on a Classic Favorite

The traditional Italian sub is an iconic sandwich packed with bold flavors, but assembling individual sandwiches can be time-consuming, especially for large gatherings. Italian Sub Squares take the same delicious ingredients and transform them into an easy-to-make baked dish. The result? A bubbly, golden masterpiece that delivers all the satisfaction of an Italian sub in a convenient, shareable format.

2. Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal, a party appetizer, or a dish to bring to a potluck, these sub squares fit the bill. Their portable, easy-to-serve nature makes them a hit at picnics, tailgates, and family gatherings.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor the ingredients to your preferences. Love spice? Add jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Prefer a vegetarian option? Swap the meats for roasted veggies and extra cheese. The possibilities are endless!

Gather Your Ingredients: The Italian Sub Essentials

  • Crescent Roll Dough: 2 cans (8 oz each), refrigerated
  • Deli Meats:
    • 1/4 lb sliced ham
    • 1/4 lb sliced salami
    • 1/4 lb sliced pepperoni
  • Cheeses:
    • 1/4 lb sliced provolone cheese
    • 1/4 lb sliced mozzarella cheese
  • Flavor Boosters:
    • 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
    • 1/2 cup sliced banana peppers (optional)
    • 1/4 cup chopped black olives (optional)
  • Toppings:
    • 4 large eggs, beaten
    • 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Directions: Crafting the Perfect Baked Sub

  1. Preheat & Prep: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Layer the Base: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the dish, sealing any seams.
  3. Stack the Fillings: Evenly layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, and mozzarella.
  4. Add the Extras: Sprinkle roasted red peppers, banana peppers, and black olives over the meats and cheeses.
  5. Seal with Dough: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the top, sealing the edges.
  6. Egg Wash & Season: Brush beaten eggs over the dough, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese.
  7. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
  8. Cool & Slice: Let it rest for 5-10 minutes, then cut into squares and serve warm.

Nutritional Breakdown: A Balanced Bite

(Approximate values per serving)

  • Calories: ~280
  • Protein: ~14g
  • Carbohydrates: ~18g
  • Fat: ~17g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Sodium: ~700mg

Pro Tips for Making the Best Italian Sub Squares

To ensure that your Italian Sub Squares come out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:

1. Use High-Quality Deli Meats and Cheeses

Since this dish relies heavily on the flavors of its ingredients, opt for freshly sliced, high-quality deli meats and cheeses. Avoid pre-packaged options with added preservatives, as they may not melt or taste as good when baked.

2. Press and Seal the Crescent Roll Dough

Crescent roll dough is a fantastic shortcut, but its perforated edges can cause issues if not sealed properly. When pressing the dough into your baking dish, use your fingers or a rolling pin to seal any seams to create a uniform base. This prevents the filling from leaking out during baking.

3. Brush the Top with Egg Wash or Butter

For a beautiful golden-brown crust, don’t skip the egg wash or melted butter. This step enhances both the appearance and the texture of the baked squares, making them look as appetizing as they taste.

4. Let It Cool Before Slicing

It’s tempting to dig in right away, but allowing the sub squares to cool for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing helps everything set properly. This makes for cleaner cuts and prevents the layers from falling apart.

Creative Variations to Try

1. Spicy Italian Sub Squares

For those who love a little heat, add sliced jalapeños, spicy giardiniera, or crushed red pepper flakes between the layers. You can also use spicy pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.

2. Mediterranean-Inspired Sub Squares

Give this dish a Mediterranean twist by adding ingredients like kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese. Swap the traditional meats for thinly sliced prosciutto and capicola for an even more authentic flavor.

3. Vegetarian Sub Squares

Eliminate the deli meats and load up on roasted vegetables instead. Try layers of grilled eggplant, zucchini, roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, and spinach, paired with a mix of provolone and mozzarella.

4. Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly Version

If you’re following a low-carb diet, replace the crescent roll dough with a keto-friendly alternative, such as almond flour fathead dough. Another option is to make lettuce wraps using the same ingredients while skipping the baking step.

Serving Suggestions: What to Pair with Italian Sub Squares

While Italian Sub Squares are delicious on their own, pairing them with complementary sides enhances the meal. Here are a few perfect matches:

1. Classic Italian Side Salad

A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onions, olives, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the sub squares.

2. Warm Tomato Soup

Nothing complements a cheesy baked dish better than a bowl of warm tomato soup. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a comforting combination.

3. Garlic Parmesan Fries

Crispy garlic parmesan fries add a satisfying crunch to your plate and pair well with the Italian flavors in the sub squares.

4. Marinated Antipasto Platter

For a true Italian-inspired spread, serve a platter of marinated olives, artichoke hearts, fresh mozzarella balls, and cured meats alongside your sub squares.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Italian Sub Squares Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep the dough from drying out.

2. How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through to maintain the crispy texture.

3. Can I Freeze Italian Sub Squares?

Absolutely! Wrap individual squares in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat them directly from frozen in a 350°F oven until warm and crisp.

4. Can I Use Puff Pastry Instead of Crescent Roll Dough?

Yes! Puff pastry creates a flakier, more delicate texture compared to crescent roll dough. Just be sure to thaw it properly before use and adjust the baking time if needed.

5. What Are the Best Cheese Substitutes?

If you want to switch up the cheese, try pepper jack for spice, cheddar for sharpness, or Swiss for a milder flavor. Combining different cheeses can also create a more complex taste.

6. What’s the Best Way to Slice the Squares?

For clean, even cuts, use a sharp serrated knife or a pizza cutter. Letting the dish cool before slicing will also prevent the layers from shifting.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Italian Sub Squares are a perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility. They take all the beloved elements of an Italian sub and turn them into a warm, cheesy, shareable dish that’s ideal for any occasion.

Whether you’re preparing a meal for family, hosting a party, or simply craving a twist on a classic favorite, these baked sub squares are sure to satisfy. With endless customization options and easy storage solutions, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

So, next time you need a quick, delicious, and crowd-friendly meal, give Italian Sub Squares a try—you won’t be disappointed!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Italian Sub Squares: The Ultimate Baked Deli Delight


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Description

Turn your favorite Italian sub sandwich into a crispy, cheesy, and flavor-packed baked dish with these Italian Sub Squares! Layers of savory deli meats, melty cheese, and zesty seasonings are sandwiched between flaky crescent roll dough, making this an easy and delicious recipe for parties, potlucks, or family dinners. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this warm, golden-brown masterpiece will quickly become your new go-to meal!


Ingredients

For the Dough:

  • 2 cans (8 oz each) crescent roll dough

For the Filling:

  • ¼ lb sliced ham
  • ¼ lb sliced salami
  • ¼ lb sliced pepperoni
  • ¼ lb sliced provolone cheese
  • ¼ lb sliced mozzarella cheese

For the Flavor Boosters:

  • ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped
  • ½ cup sliced banana peppers (optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped black olives (optional)

For the Toppings:

  • 4 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Layer the Base

  1. Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the baking dish, sealing any seams to create a solid layer.

Step 3: Add the Fillings

  1. Layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, and mozzarella evenly over the dough.
  2. Sprinkle the roasted red peppers, banana peppers, and black olives on top.

Step 4: Seal with Dough

  1. Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the top, sealing the edges.

Step 5: Egg Wash & Season

  1. Brush the beaten eggs over the top layer of dough.
  2. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a golden crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

  1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Cool & Slice

  1. Let the baked sub rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.
  • Swap the Meat: Use turkey, pastrami, or capicola for different flavors.
  • Cheese Options: Substitute cheddar, Swiss, or smoked gouda for a unique twist.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star