Layered Italian Sub Squares

This Italian sub squares recipe transforms the classic handheld sandwich into a party-friendly, shareable bake that's guaranteed to impress at your next gathering. The familiar flavors of an Italian sub are layered between flaky crescent dough for an easy-to-serve dish that captures all the goodness of the original in a convenient format.

I first made these squares for my son's graduation party when I needed something substantial that could sit out for a while. They were such a hit that they've become my signature potluck dish everyone requests when we have family gatherings.

Ingredients

• Crescent roll dough sheets Two cans provide the perfect flaky crust that holds everything together and creates that satisfying bread element essential to any good sub
• Sliced provolone cheese This mild cheese melts beautifully and provides the creamy foundation that brings all the flavors together
• Deli pepperoni Adds a spicy kick and that classic Italian sub flavor look for a high quality pepperoni with visible spices for best results
• Deli ham Provides a slightly sweet counterpoint to the other meats choose a good quality ham that isnt too watery
• Genoa salami The star of any Italian sub with its distinctive flavor and slight tang opt for thinly sliced authentic Genoa for best results
• Roasted red bell peppers Their sweet smoky flavor cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese jarred ones work perfectly but pat them dry to prevent soggy squares
• Sliced pepperoncini These tangy pickled peppers add brightness and a mild heat that wakes up your taste buds
• Egg Combined with pesto and parmesan creates a beautiful golden crust when baked
• Prepared pesto Infuses the top crust with herby garlic flavor without any extra work
• Parmesan cheese Adds a savory umami punch to the top crust and helps with browning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to a moderate 350°F which ensures the dough cooks through without burning. Spray your 9x13 baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray, making sure to coat the sides well to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy removal of your squares later.

Create Your Base

Take one sheet of crescent dough and carefully press it into the prepared pan. Work slowly, stretching the dough to cover the bottom completely and extend about an inch up all sides. This creates a little wall to contain all your delicious fillings. Avoid tearing the dough if possible, but dont worry about small holes as theyll seal during baking.

Layer Your Fillings

Start with half the provolone, arranging the slices to cover the entire bottom. Next, create even layers of pepperoni, ham, and salami, distributing each meat to ensure every bite contains all flavors. Scatter the roasted red peppers and pepperoncini evenly across the meat layer, then top with remaining provolone. The cheese on top and bottom helps seal everything together when melted.

Seal Your Creation

Place the second sheet of crescent dough over the filling, stretching gently to reach the edges. Carefully pinch and seal the edges where the top and bottom dough meet. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, pesto, and parmesan until well combined, then brush this mixture generously over the top dough. This creates a flavorful, golden crust.

Bake To Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil that youve lightly greased to prevent sticking to the top dough. Bake covered for 30 minutes, which allows the layers to cook through without excessive browning. Then remove the foil and continue baking for 15-20 minutes until deeply golden brown. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares, which allows the layers to set for cleaner slices.

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I have a special affinity for the pepperoncini in this recipe. My grandmother used to make Italian subs for our beach trips, and she always included extra pepperoncini on the side. That tangy bite brings back memories of sandy feet and family laughter every time I make these squares.

Make-Ahead Magic

These squares are perfect for preparing in advance. You can assemble the entire dish up to a day before, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just remember to remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off. If you're really planning ahead, you can even bake the squares completely, cool them, and freeze in portions. They'll thaw beautifully in the refrigerator overnight and can be quickly reheated in a 300°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.

Easy Variations

Don't feel locked into the classic Italian sub ingredients. Try a Greek version with feta cheese, olives, and spinach instead of the traditional meats. For a vegetarian option, omit the meats and double up on the cheeses, adding sautéed mushrooms, artichoke hearts, and olives for that satisfying umami flavor. If you prefer a spicier version, add a layer of pickled jalapeños or substitute calabrese for the ham. The basic format remains the same, but the flavors can transport you wherever your taste buds want to go.

Serving Suggestions

While these squares are substantial enough to serve as a main dish with a simple green salad, they also make fantastic appetizers when cut into smaller pieces. For a complete Italian-themed meal, serve alongside a classic Caesar salad and a small bowl of minestrone soup. They're equally delicious hot from the oven or at room temperature, making them perfect for buffets or potlucks where food might sit out for a while. For a special touch, offer a small dish of extra virgin olive oil with Italian herbs for dipping.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make Italian Sub Squares ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble Italian Sub Squares up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate unbaked. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. Alternatively, bake completely, refrigerate, and reheat covered at 325°F for 15 minutes before serving.

→ What substitutions can I make for the meats?

Feel free to customize with your favorite Italian deli meats. Mortadella, capicola, prosciutto, or even turkey work well. Just maintain similar quantities (about ¾ pound total) to ensure proper cooking.

→ How should I store leftover Italian Sub Squares?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual squares in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

→ Can I freeze these squares?

Yes, you can freeze baked and cooled squares for up to 2 months. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then foil. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

→ What sides pair well with Italian Sub Squares?

These squares pair beautifully with a simple green salad, marinated vegetable antipasto, potato chips, pasta salad, or a light tomato soup. For a party spread, include olives, pickled vegetables, and a variety of dipping sauces.

→ Can I make a vegetarian version?

Absolutely! Replace the deli meats with layers of grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and portobello mushrooms. Add extra cheese varieties like fresh mozzarella or fontina for richness, and consider adding pesto or olive tapenade for flavor.