Italian Sub Squares Recipe

Introduction

Italian Sub Squares are a fun and easy way to enjoy the classic flavors of an Italian sub sandwich in a baked, handheld form. Layers of provolone, pepperoni, ham, salami, and roasted peppers are wrapped in golden crescent roll dough for a savory, satisfying meal or appetizer.

Ingredients

• 2 cans crescent roll dough sheets
• 8 ounces sliced provolone cheese
• ¼ pound sliced deli pepperoni
• ¼ pound sliced deli ham
• ¼ pound sliced deli Genoa salami
• 12 ounce can roasted red bell peppers, drained and thinly sliced
• ½ cup canned sliced pepperoncini, drained
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon prepared pesto
• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Step 2: Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the baking dish, making sure to extend the dough about 1 inch up the sides.
3. Step 3: Layer half of the provolone cheese evenly over the dough. Add the pepperoni slices, followed by the ham, then the Genoa salami. Top with the sliced roasted red bell peppers and pepperoncini. Finish with the remaining provolone cheese.
4. Step 4: Unroll the second can of crescent dough and carefully place it on top of the layered ingredients. Pinch the edges together well to seal the package and keep the filling inside while baking.
5. Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, pesto, and grated parmesan cheese until smooth.
6. Step 6: Brush the egg mixture evenly over the top of the dough. Cover the dish with non-stick foil or a piece of foil sprayed with cooking spray, placing the sprayed side down.
7. Step 7: Bake covered for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is a deep golden brown.
8. Step 8: Allow the Italian Sub Squares to cool for 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute the pepperoni or salami with your favorite deli meats, such as turkey or roast beef, for a different twist.
• For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of Italian dressing or mustard on the dough before layering the cheese and meats.
• Try adding sliced olives or banana peppers for a tangy kick.
• Use fresh pesto or homemade pesto if available for a richer taste.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the crust crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the dough soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Can I freeze Italian Sub Squares?

Absolutely. After baking and cooling completely, wrap the squares tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Italian Sub Squares Recipe

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4.6 from 86 reviews

Italian Sub Squares are a delightful twist on the classic Italian sandwich, baked into a savory, cheesy crescent roll casserole. Packed with layers of provolone, pepperoni, ham, Genoa salami, roasted red peppers, and pepperoncini, this dish combines tangy and savory flavors with a crispy golden crust. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a hearty snack, these squares are easy to prepare and sure to impress.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
• Category: Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

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Base and Topping

• 2 cans crescent roll dough sheets
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon prepared pesto
• 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese

Cheeses

• 8 ounces sliced provolone cheese

Meats

• ¼ pound sliced deli pepperoni
• ¼ pound sliced deli ham
• ¼ pound sliced deli Genoa salami

Vegetables

• 12 ounce can roasted red bell peppers (drained, thinly sliced)
• ½ cup canned sliced pepperoncini (drained)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Form Base Layer: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the baking dish, ensuring the dough comes up about 1 inch on the sides to create a crust base.
3. Layer Fillings: Spread half of the provolone cheese evenly over the dough base. Layer the pepperoni, followed by ham, then Genoa salami. Distribute the thinly sliced roasted red peppers and pepperoncini evenly on top. Finally, cover with the remaining provolone cheese.
4. Add Top Crust: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and carefully place it over the layered ingredients. Pinch all the edges together tightly to seal the filling inside, forming a sealed package.
5. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, pesto, and grated parmesan cheese to create a flavorful wash.
6. Apply Egg Wash and Cover: Brush the egg wash mixture generously over the top dough surface. Cover the baking dish with non-stick foil or spray one side of a piece of foil with cooking spray and place the sprayed side down over the dish to prevent sticking.
7. Bake: Place the covered dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is deep golden brown and fully cooked through.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow the Italian Sub Squares to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares and serving.

Notes

• Ensure the edges of the dough are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
• Letting the baked squares rest before cutting helps maintain their shape.
• You can customize the meats and vegetables according to preference, such as adding olives or substituting different cheeses.
• Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Keywords: Italian sub recipe, crescent roll recipe, Italian sandwich casserole, party appetizers, baked sandwiches