Classic Italian Sub Recipe
Introduction
This classic Italian sub brings together a balance of meats, cheese, and crisp vegetables for a crowd-pleasing sandwich. It’s straightforward to assemble and perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner. Slice into portions and enjoy the bold Italian flavors.

Ingredients
- 1 Italian loaf (12-inch)
- 4 oz Genoa salami (thinly sliced)
- 4 oz mortadella (thinly sliced)
- 4 oz capocollo (thinly sliced)
- 3 oz pepperoni (sliced)
- 4 oz provolone cheese (sliced)
- 1 cup romaine lettuce (shredded)
- 1 large tomato (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup banana peppers (sliced, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the bread by slicing the Italian loaf lengthwise to create a top and bottom half.
- Step 2: Layer the meats: add 4 oz each of Genoa salami, mortadella, and capocollo, plus 3 oz pepperoni.
- Step 3: Add the cheese: Layer 4 oz provolone over the meats.
- Step 4: Add the vegetables: top with 1 cup shredded romaine, 1 thinly sliced tomato, and optional banana peppers.
- Step 5: Dress: drizzle with 1/4 cup Italian dressing over the fillings.
- Step 6: Serve: close the sandwich and cut into portions for serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute part of the meats with grilled chicken or turkey.
- Toast the bread lightly before assembling for extra crunch and warmth.
- Use whole-jar banana peppers for a bolder pepper flavor or omit entirely if preferred.
Storage
Assembled sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh. If needed, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 day. If stacking for later, store the components separately and assemble just before serving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Yes. Prepare the fillings and dressings in advance, and assemble the sandwiches shortly before serving to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Can I customize the bread or toppings?
Absolutely. A crusty baguette or tunable cheeses work well, and you can swap in mozzarella or add roasted peppers for a different flavor profile.
Print
Classic Italian Sub Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Classic Italian Sub: a hearty cold sandwich layering Genoa salami, mortadella, capocollo, pepperoni, and provolone with crisp lettuce, tomato, and banana peppers, finished with a tangy Italian dressing on a long Italian loaf.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 Italian loaf (12-inch)
Meats
- 4 oz Genoa salami (thinly sliced)
- 4 oz mortadella (thinly sliced)
- 4 oz capocollo (thinly sliced)
- 3 oz pepperoni (sliced)
Cheese
- 4 oz provolone cheese (sliced)
Vegetables
- 1 cup romaine lettuce (shredded)
- 1 large tomato (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup banana peppers (sliced) – optional
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Italian dressing
Instructions
- Prep the bread: Slice the Italian loaf lengthwise to create a sturdy base for the fillings.
- Layer the meats: Evenly distribute 4 oz each of Genoa salami, mortadella, and capocollo, plus 3 oz pepperoni over the bread.
- Add the cheese: Layer 4 oz provolone cheese over the sliced meats.
- Add the vegetables: Top with 1 cup shredded romaine, 1 sliced tomato, and optional banana peppers for a bit of heat and crunch.
- Dress: Drizzle 1/4 cup Italian dressing over the fillings to moisten and flavor the sandwich.
- Serve: Close the sandwich and cut into portions to serve – this yields 4 generous portions.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute leaner turkey or ham for some of the meats.
- Toast the bread lightly if you prefer a warmer, crispier bite (optional).
- Can be prepared ahead by assembling and wrapping tightly; the flavors meld nicely after a short rest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: classic Italian sub, deli sandwich, Genoa salami, mortadella, capocollo, provolone, Italian dressing, lettuce, tomato, banana peppers

