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Italian Grinder Sub Recipe

4.8 from 784 reviews

This classic Italian Grinder Sub is a flavorful and satisfying sandwich made with a fresh Italian loaf loaded with layers of provolone, ham, Sopprasetta, Genoa salami, and pepperoni. It’s topped with a tangy and garlicky grinder salad made from mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic, pepper, oregano, chili flakes, and pepperoncini, paired with crisp iceberg lettuce, sweet tomatoes, freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect for lunch or a hearty snack, this sub offers a perfect balance of savory meats, creamy cheese, and bright, zesty toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sub

  • 16 ounce Italian loaf of bread
  • 1/2 pound medium sliced deli provolone cheese
  • 1/2 pound thinly sliced deli ham
  • 1/4 pound thinly sliced deli Sopprasetta
  • 1/4 pound thinly sliced deli Genoa salami
  • 6 thinly sliced deli pepperoni

For the Grinder Salad

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini
  • 1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded

For Assembly

  • 2 ounces freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 1 beef steak tomato, sliced
  • Drizzle of olive oil
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • Fresh cracked pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Grinder Salad: In a bowl, mix together 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, minced garlic cloves, black pepper, dried oregano, red chili flakes, and kosher salt. Stir until all ingredients are well combined to create a tangy dressing.
  2. Add Vegetables to the Salad: Incorporate the sliced pepperoncini, thinly sliced red onion, and shredded iceberg lettuce into the dressing. Toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated and combined, making the flavorful grinder salad topping.
  3. Slice the Italian Loaf: Cut the 16-ounce Italian loaf of bread lengthwise horizontally to open it up for filling. If preferred, you can lightly toast the bread to add some crunch and warmth.
  4. Layer the Meats and Cheese: Begin layering the bottom half of the bread with the 1/2 pound provolone cheese, followed by the ham, Sopprasetta, Genoa salami, and six slices of pepperoni, distributing the meats evenly.
  5. Add Fresh Tomato and Cheese: Place the sliced beef steak tomato over the layered meats, then sprinkle 2 ounces of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on top for a sharp, nutty flavor.
  6. Top with Grinder Salad: Generously spoon the prepared grinder salad with lettuce, peppers, and onion over the layered meats and cheese to add moisture, crunch, and a punch of flavor.
  7. Season and Drizzle: Drizzle the sandwich lightly with olive oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your taste, enhancing all the flavors with simple seasoning.
  8. Close and Serve: Carefully place the top half of the Italian loaf on the sandwich, pressing slightly to hold everything together. Cut the sub into individual portions and serve immediately for best freshness and texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh Italian bread for the best texture and flavor.
  • Feel free to add or substitute your favorite Italian cured meats.
  • To toast the bread, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes before assembling.
  • Adjust the amount of chili flakes according to your desired spice level.
  • This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh but can be wrapped tightly and refrigerated for up to one day.

Keywords: Italian sub, grinder sandwich, deli meat sandwich, provolone cheese sandwich, Italian sandwich recipe