If you’re a fan of homemade Italian sandwiches, then you’re going to love Italian Sub Squares. Think of all the flavors of a classic Italian sub, but baked into golden, cheesy squares that are easy to serve. Whether you’re looking for a club sandwich appetizer, a Sheet Pan Italian Sub Dinner, or easy and quick lunch ideas for work, this recipe is a game-changer.
Plus, it’s a lot less messy than eating a full sandwich, and you can have more than one piece without feeling guilty—well, kind of. Let’s dive into this delicious twist on baked Italian sandwiches and why you’ll want to add it to your regular meal rotation.
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What Are Italian Sub Squares?
Italian Sub Squares are essentially anti pasto squares baked to crispy perfection. Instead of assembling individual subs, you layer meats, cheeses, and toppings between sheets of crescent roll dough and bake them into a golden, flaky sandwich casserole.
They’re similar to an Italian crescent bake, but with a heartier, sub-style filling. They work well as a club sandwich appetizer for game nights, parties, or a quick dinner.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you need to make the best baked Italian sandwich:
Main Ingredients:
- Crescent Roll Dough Sheets – Forms a buttery, flaky crust.
- Sliced Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully for that cheesy pull.
- Deli Pepperoni – Adds a slightly spicy kick.
- Deli Ham – Brings a salty, smoky flavor.
- Genoa Salami – A must-have for authentic Italian flavor.
- Roasted Red Bell Peppers – Adds sweetness and color.
- Sliced Pepperoncini – Gives a tangy, slightly spicy bite.
For the Topping:
- Large Egg – Helps the top brown beautifully.
- Prepared Pesto – Enhances the Italian flavors.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Gives a nutty, salty crust.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Assemble the Bottom Layer
Unroll one sheet of crescent roll dough and press it into the dish, ensuring the dough slightly overlaps the edges.
3. Add the Fillings
Layer the ingredients in the following order:
- Half of the provolone cheese
- Pepperoni
- Ham
- Salami
- Roasted red bell peppers & pepperoncini
- Remaining provolone cheese
4. Top with Dough
Unroll the second crescent roll sheet and carefully place it over the filling, sealing the edges.
5. Make the Pesto Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 beaten egg, 2 tablespoons of pesto, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection
Brush the pesto glaze over the top crust. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
Let it rest for 10 minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm for the best flavor.
Expert Tips for Perfect Italian Sub Squares
- Avoid Sogginess: Drain the roasted peppers well before layering.
- Achieve a Golden Crust: The pesto-egg wash helps get a crisp, flavorful topping.
- Customize It: Try adding mozzarella, turkey, or hot capicola for different flavors.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do Italian Sub Squares taste like?
They taste just like a baked Italian sandwich—cheesy, slightly salty, with a kick from the pepperoncini and a flaky, buttery crust.
Can I use regular crescent rolls instead of dough sheets?
Yes! Just press the perforations together to seal the seams.
Do I have to use pesto on top?
No, but it adds great flavor. You can brush the top with olive oil or an egg wash instead.
Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent rolls?
It’s not recommended. Puff pastry is flakier but doesn’t hold the fillings as well.
How do I store and reheat Italian Sub Squares?
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheat at 350°F in the oven until warm and crispy.
Serving & Pairing Suggestions
- Serve with Marinara Sauce: The perfect dipper!
- Pair with a Side Salad: A fresh, crisp contrast to the rich, cheesy squares.
- Enjoy as a Lunchbox Meal: A great option for lunch recipes for adults.
- Add a Soup: Pairs well with tomato basil soup or minestrone.
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Recipe Variations & Customizations
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the meats for grilled zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Low-Carb Option: Use keto-friendly dough instead of crescent rolls.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or ricotta for more creaminess.
Italian Sub Squares
Ingredients
- 2 cans 8 oz each crescent roll dough sheets
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- 20 slices pepperoni
- 8 slices deli ham
- 8 slices Genoa salami
- ½ cup roasted red bell peppers drained and sliced
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini drained
- 1 large egg beaten
- 2 tbsp prepared pesto
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Layer the bottom crust: Press one crescent roll dough sheet into the dish, allowing it to slightly go up the sides.
- Add the fillings: Layer half of the provolone cheese, followed by pepperoni, ham, salami, roasted red bell peppers, and pepperoncini. Add the remaining provolone on top.
- Seal the top crust: Unroll the second crescent roll dough sheet and place it over the fillings, pinching the edges together to seal.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, pesto, and Parmesan cheese.
- Brush and bake: Spread the pesto mixture evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm and enjoy
Notes
- For a crispier crust, bake the last 5 minutes at 375°F.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual squares tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Customize it! Add black olives, onions, or swap meats for turkey or chicken.
Italian Sub Squares are the ultimate Sheet Pan Italian Sub Dinner—easy to make, deliciously cheesy, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a club sandwich appetizer, a weeknight dinner, or just because you’re craving baked Italian sandwiches, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.
So, next time you’re craving a classic Italian sandwich, skip the mess and make these Italian Sub Squares instead. Trust me, your taste buds (and your kitchen clean-up routine) will thank you!
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