Hey y'all! Looking for a summer meal that's quick, hearty, and sure to satisfy everyone at the table? Enter the classic Italian Grinder Sub—a stacked sandwich packed with savory Italian deli meats, melty cheese, and that irresistible tangy grinder salad. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping busy weeknights or casual gatherings, and every bite delivers crisp, cheesy goodness with a punch of flavor. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This
- Super quick to assemble—ready in under 30 minutes!
- Loaded with bold, zesty flavors from classic Italian deli ingredients.
- Perfect for feeding a hungry family or prepping lunches ahead of time.
- Customizable with your favorite meats and cheeses.
- A deliciously satisfying combination of crispy, creamy, and fresh textures.
Ingredients
- 4 crusty Italian sub rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- ½ pound sliced deli ham
- ¼ pound sliced salami
- ¼ pound sliced pepperoni
- ¼ pound sliced turkey (optional, for extra protein)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Directions
Step 1: Prep the Grinder Salad
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Toss in the shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, and pepperoncini peppers, coating well. Set aside.
Step 2: Layer the Meat and Cheese
- Slice the Italian rolls lengthwise, but do not cut all the way through. Layer each roll with 2 slices provolone, followed by ham, salami, pepperoni, and turkey if using.
Step 3: Toast for Melted Goodness
- Preheat your oven broiler to high. Place open-faced subs on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the edges of the rolls are golden. Watch closely to avoid burning!
Step 4: Add Fresh Toppings and Finish
- Remove subs from oven. Top with tomato slices and a generous scoop of the grinder salad mixture. Close the buns and serve immediately!
Notes
- If prepping ahead, keep the grinder salad and subs separate until ready to serve to avoid sogginess.
- Swap out meats based on what you have—mortadella, roast beef, or chicken work great.
- Add extra vinegar or pepperoncini for more tang and heat.
Variations
- Spicy Grinder Sub: Add sliced jalapeños and use spicy pepper jack cheese.
- Veggie Italian Grinder: Omit meat and layer on grilled eggplant, roasted red peppers, and sliced mozzarella.
- Whole Wheat Sub: Swap white Italian rolls for whole wheat or multigrain for added fiber.
Required Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Sharp bread knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
Storage Instructions
Store assembled subs (without salad) tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 2 days. Grinder salad keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days; add to subs just before serving. Reheat the rolls in a toaster oven for best texture.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with kettle-cooked chips or crispy oven fries for lunch.
- Pair with a chilled Italian pasta salad or marinated veggies for dinner.
- Enjoy alongside a cold iced tea or sparkling lemonade for a refreshing meal.
Pro Tips
- Toast the buns cut side up for an extra-crispy base that won’t get soggy.
- Layer meat and cheese evenly for perfect flavor in every bite.
- Let the grinder salad sit for at least 5 minutes to help flavors meld.
FAQ
- Can I make this grinder sub ahead of time?
Yes! Prep all components ahead, but assemble just before serving for the best texture. - Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Absolutely—just use your favorite gluten-free sub rolls. - What’s the best way to reheat leftover subs?
Reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, then add fresh toppings and salad.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 crusty Italian sub rolls
- 8 slices provolone cheese
- ½ pound sliced deli ham
- ¼ pound sliced salami
- ¼ pound sliced pepperoni
- ¼ pound sliced turkey (optional, for extra protein)
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
- ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Instructions
-
1In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth. Toss in the shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, and pepperoncini peppers, coating well. Set aside.
-
2Slice the Italian rolls lengthwise, but do not cut all the way through. Layer each roll with 2 slices provolone, followed by ham, salami, pepperoni, and turkey if using.
-
3Preheat your oven broiler to high. Place open-faced subs on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the edges of the rolls are golden. Watch closely to avoid burning!
-
4Remove subs from oven. Top with tomato slices and a generous scoop of the grinder salad mixture. Close the buns and serve immediately!
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!
Leave a Reply