Craving the hearty, robust flavors of an Italian sub? Let’s transform that craving into a delightful handheld treat with these Italian Sub Squares. It’s all the classic flavors you adore, neatly packaged into easy-to-eat squares that are perfect for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself. No judgment here!The Country Cook
Why Italian Sub Squares?
There’s something about the convenience of finger foods that makes eating just a bit more fun, especially when it involves the familiar flavors of your favorite Italian sub. These squares offer a neat twist by baking the traditional sandwich ingredients into a portable, less-messy form. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a friendly potluck, or a solo treat, these squares are designed to satisfy your cravings with each flavorful bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start, gather the following ingredients to ensure your Italian Sub Squares are as delicious as they are delightful:
- 2 cans of crescent roll dough sheets: This will form the base and top of your squares. If dough sheets are unavailable, regular crescent roll dough can work; just pinch the seams together.
- 8 ounces of sliced provolone cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and offers a mild, creamy taste.
- ¼ pound each of sliced deli meats: This includes pepperoni for a spicy kick, ham for sweetness, and Genoa salami for a touch of garlic and pepper.
- 12 ounces of roasted red bell peppers, drained and thinly sliced: These add a slight tang and sweetness.
- ½ cup of canned sliced pepperoncini, drained: For crunch and a mild heat.
- 1 large egg: This will help bind the pesto and cheese topping.
- 1 tablespoon of prepared pesto: Adds a rich basil flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade pesto.
- 1 tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese: For a salty, nutty finish.Recipe pioneer+5The Country Cook+5Allrecipes+5Instagram+1The Country Cook+1
Detailed Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Assemble the Base
- Lay one sheet of crescent roll dough in the baking dish, pressing it flat on the bottom and slightly up the sides to form a crust.
- Start your layers with half of the provolone cheese slices on the bottom.Allrecipes+6Recipe pioneer+6The Country Cook+6
3. Add the Meats and Veggies
- Layer the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
- Next, add the ham slices, followed by the Genoa salami.
- Distribute the roasted red bell peppers and pepperoncini evenly over the meats.
- Top with the remaining provolone cheese slices.Allrecipes+2The Country Cook+2The Country Cook+2Reddit+5The Country Cook+5The Country Cook+5
4. Seal the Deal
- Place the second sheet of crescent roll dough over the top, pressing the edges to seal the layers inside.
5. Prepare the Topping
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, prepared pesto, and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Brush this mixture evenly over the top layer of dough.The Country CookInesKohl Kitchen+1The Country Cook+1
6. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.food.com
7. Cool and Serve
- Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes to set.
- Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or asiago for different flavor profiles.
- Meat Substitutions: You can substitute the meats with turkey, roast beef, or even vegetarian options like grilled vegetables for a different twist.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of pepperoncini to control the heat level to your preference.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these squares with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: These squares can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Final Thoughts
Italian Sub Squares are a delightful and versatile dish that brings the beloved flavors of an Italian sub into a convenient, shareable form. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a family meal, or simply indulging in a savory treat, these squares are sure to impress. With their customizable ingredients and easy preparation, they offer a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite
