Italian Sub Squares are the perfect fusion of a classic Italian sandwich and a warm, baked casserole. Packed with layers of savory deli meats, melty cheeses, and roasted peppers, all sandwiched between buttery crescent roll dough, this dish is an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for the perfect appetizer, Italian Sub Squares deliver bold flavors with minimal effort.

This dish captures everything people love about a traditional Italian sub—ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, and mozzarella—baked into a golden, flaky crust. With the added touch of Italian seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and an egg wash to create the perfect crispy finish, every bite is pure comfort.

Why Italian Sub Squares Are a Must-Try

1. Perfect for Any Occasion

Italian Sub Squares are incredibly versatile. They make a fantastic appetizer, a hearty main dish, or even a meal-prep option for busy weekdays. Their ease of serving—cutting them into squares rather than making individual sandwiches—makes them a convenient choice for potlucks, game nights, and family gatherings.

2. A Twist on the Classic Sub

Traditional Italian subs are delicious but can sometimes be messy to eat. By transforming the sandwich into a baked dish, you get all the flavors you love without the hassle of toppings sliding off or bread getting soggy. The layers meld together beautifully in the oven, giving each bite a rich, uniform taste.

3. Quick and Easy Preparation

Unlike making multiple sandwiches, which requires assembling each one individually, Italian Sub Squares come together in just a few steps. Using crescent roll dough as the base saves time while still providing that signature flaky texture. Simply layer, bake, and slice!

4. Customizable to Your Taste

This recipe allows for endless variations. You can swap out meats, add extra toppings like olives or jalapeños, or experiment with different cheese combinations. Whether you like your subs spicy, tangy, or extra cheesy, Italian Sub Squares can be tailored to fit your cravings.

Ingredients:

• Crescent Roll Dough: 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• Deli Meats: 1/4 lb sliced ham
• Deli Meats: 1/4 lb sliced salami
• Deli Meats: 1/4 lb sliced pepperoni
• Cheese: 1/4 lb sliced provolone cheese
• Cheese: 1/4 lb sliced mozzarella cheese
• Roasted Red Peppers: 1/2 cup, drained and chopped
• Banana Peppers (optional): 1/2 cup, sliced
• Black Olives (optional): 1/4 cup, chopped
• Eggs: 4 large, beaten
• Italian Seasoning: 1 tablespoon
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, grated

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: et your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Layer the Dough: nroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, sealing any seams to form a solid crust.
3. Assemble the Layers: venly layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, and mozzarella over the dough. Sprinkle the chopped roasted red peppers, banana peppers, and black olives on top, if using.
4. Top with Dough: nroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the layered fillings, carefully sealing the seams and pressing the edges to cover the filling completely.
5. Add Egg Wash and Seasoning: rush the beaten eggs evenly over the top layer of dough. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake: lace the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through.
7. Cool and Serve: llow the Italian Sub Squares to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm. Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: pproximately 450- Protein: 2g- Carbohydrates: 2g- Fat: 5g- Saturated Fat: 0g- Cholesterol: 35mg- Sodium: ,500mg- Fiber: g- Sugar: g Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Tips for Making the Best Italian Sub Squares

1. Choose High-Quality Deli Meats

The quality of your meats significantly impacts the flavor of this dish. Opt for freshly sliced deli meats rather than pre-packaged versions for a more authentic and flavorful experience.

2. Don’t Skip the Egg Wash

Brushing the top layer of dough with beaten eggs before baking creates a golden, glossy crust. It also helps the Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese adhere better, enhancing both the texture and taste.

3. Let It Rest Before Slicing

Once out of the oven, allow the dish to cool for about 5–10 minutes. This helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. Cutting too soon might cause the filling to slide out before it has had time to firm up.

4. Use Parchment Paper for Easy Removal

Lining your baking dish with parchment paper ensures that the sub squares don’t stick. It also makes cleanup a breeze!

5. Experiment with Toppings and Additions

While the traditional recipe includes roasted red peppers and banana peppers, you can customize your filling to include ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra depth.

How to Serve Italian Sub Squares

Italian Sub Squares are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

1. As an Appetizer

Cut them into small bite-sized squares and serve them on a platter with toothpicks. Pair with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for added flavor.

2. As a Main Dish

Serve alongside a fresh Caesar salad or a bowl of tomato basil soup for a well-balanced meal. The warm, cheesy squares pair beautifully with crisp, refreshing greens.

3. As a Lunch or Dinner Meal Prep

Make a batch ahead of time and store them in the fridge for quick and easy meals throughout the week. Reheat a slice in the oven or air fryer for a delicious grab-and-go option.

4. As a Party Favorite

For a crowd-pleasing dish at parties or game-day events, prepare these in advance and serve them fresh out of the oven. Guests will love the combination of flaky dough and melted cheese.

Storage and Reheating Tips

1. Storing in the Refrigerator

Place any leftover Italian Sub Squares in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. Freezing for Later

To freeze, wrap individual squares in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 2 months.

3. Reheating for Best Texture

• Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 4–5 minutes for a quick and crispy reheating option.
• Microwave: While convenient, microwaving may soften the crust. Heat for 30–40 seconds until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough?

Yes! Puff pastry will create a flakier, more layered crust. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as puff pastry may take a few minutes longer to cook.

2. What other meats can I use in this recipe?

Feel free to swap out the traditional meats for turkey, roast beef, or even prosciutto. You can also mix and match different deli meats based on personal preference.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the layers in advance and store the unbaked dish in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it fresh and enjoy.

4. Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the deli meats and load the layers with grilled vegetables, spinach, artichokes, and extra cheese for a delicious vegetarian version.

5. What dipping sauces pair well with Italian Sub Squares?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, and honey mustard are all fantastic choices. If you love spice, try a sriracha mayo for an extra kick.

6. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling, use spicy pepperoni, or layer in some sliced jalapeños for a bolder flavor.

Conclusion: A Recipe You’ll Make Again and Again

Italian Sub Squares are the perfect combination of convenience, flavor, and crowd-pleasing appeal. Whether you’re making them for a party, a casual dinner, or meal prep, they deliver a satisfying bite every time.

With layers of savory meats, creamy cheese, and buttery dough, this dish transforms the traditional Italian sub into a baked masterpiece. Plus, with endless customization options, you can make it uniquely yours by experimenting with different fillings and flavors.

Once you try Italian Sub Squares, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen—simple, delicious, and always a hit with family and friends.

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