Italian Sub Squares

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making the perfect Italian Sub Squares! This hearty and comforting dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will have you whipping up a delicious batch of Italian Sub Squares in no time.

(Note: the recipe card directly below.PDF )

Why You’ll Love These Italian Sub Squares

There are so many reasons to love this Italian Sub Squares recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender meats, melted cheese, and savory toppings creates a symphony of tastes that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup for you!

But that’s not all. This dish is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more vegetables, swap out the meats, or make it vegetarian, the options are endless.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers. These Italian Sub Squares taste even better the next day, making them the perfect meal prep option. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients for Italian Sub Squares

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Italian Sub Squares:

• pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• sliced ham
• sliced salami
• sliced pepperoni
• sliced provolone cheese
• sliced black olives
• sliced pepperoncini
• (Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

One of the best things about this Italian Sub Squares recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Vegetarian Italian Sub Squares: Swap out the meats for your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
• Spicy Italian Sub Squares: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Cheesy Italian Sub Squares: Add extra cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a cheesier bite.
• BBQ Italian Sub Squares: Swap out the marinara sauce for BBQ sauce for a tangy twist.

How to Make Italian Sub Squares

Making Italian Sub Squares is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough to fit the baking dish. Press the dough into the dish, making sure it covers the bottom and sides.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Start by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce over the dough. Then, layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese. Top with black olives and pepperoncini.
4. Season: Sprinkle the oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the top.
5. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the Italian Sub Squares cool for a few minutes, then slice into squares. Serve with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to make your Italian Sub Squares even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add or swap out toppings to suit your preferences. Shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and red onion are all great options.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the Italian Sub Squares up to a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How to Serve

Italian Sub Squares are a hearty meal on their own, but they’re even better with a few sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Chips: Serve with a side of potato chips or tortilla chips for added crunch.
• Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Italian Sub Squares are perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make them ahead and store them:

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the Italian Sub Squares up to a day in advance. Just cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Reheat: Reheat the squares in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the squares cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works great for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for rolling it out.

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely. You can swap out the ham, salami, and pepperoni for your favorite deli meats like turkey or roast beef.

Is this dish gluten-free?

No, this dish is not gluten-free due to the pizza dough. However, you can use a gluten-free pizza dough to make it gluten-free.

Can I freeze these Italian Sub Squares?

Yes, these Italian Sub Squares freeze beautifully. Just let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make these squares spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Conclusion

And there you have it—the ultimate guide to making delicious Italian Sub Squares. This hearty and comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch to meal prep, these squares have you covered. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.

Happy cooking!

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