If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor, these Italian Sub Squares are the answer. Perfect for parties, game nights, or family gatherings, these squares are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 2 cans (8 ounces each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1/4 pound sliced deli ham
• 1/4 pound sliced Genoa salami
• 1/4 pound sliced pepperoni
• 8 slices provolone cheese
• 12 slices mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup banana peppers, drained and sliced
• 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.

2. Layer Bottom Crust: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, sealing any perforations to create a solid sheet.

3. Assemble Layers: Place a layer of provolone cheese over the dough. Evenly distribute the ham slices on top of the provolone. Add a layer of salami over the ham. Layer the pepperoni slices next. Sprinkle the banana peppers, roasted red peppers, and black olives evenly over the meats. Place the mozzarella slices over the vegetable layer.
5. Top Crust: Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and place it over the mozzarella layer, stretching gently to cover and sealing the edges to encase the fillings.

6. Add Toppings: Brush the top dough layer with the beaten egg. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dough is cooked through.

8. Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for about 10 minutes to set. Slice into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Nutrients

• Calories: 260 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Protein: 11 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Sodium: 1,093 mg
• Fiber: 1 g

What Makes Italian Sub Squares Special?

The beauty of Italian Sub Squares lies in their simplicity and versatility. They capture the essence of an Italian sub sandwich while making it even more convenient to prepare and serve. Traditional Italian subs are delicious but can be messy to eat, especially in large group settings. By transforming them into baked squares, the dish becomes easier to handle while maintaining its bold flavors and satisfying textures. Another aspect that makes this dish stand out is its adaptability. You can adjust the ingredients based on personal preference, adding or omitting components like spicy peppers, different cheeses, or extra seasonings. This customization allows you to tailor the recipe to suit different dietary preferences and spice levels, ensuring that everyone at the table finds something to enjoy.

The Rich Italian Flavors in Every Bite

At the heart of Italian Sub Squares is a combination of classic Italian deli meats such as ham, salami, and pepperoni. These meats provide a balance of smoky, salty, and slightly spicy flavors that pair beautifully with the creamy, melted cheeses. Provolone and mozzarella are commonly used because of their excellent melting properties and mild yet slightly tangy taste. Adding banana peppers and roasted red peppers brings an extra zing to the dish, while black olives provide a subtle brininess that enhances the overall flavor profile. The seasoning blend of Italian herbs and garlic powder infuses the dish with an aromatic depth, making each bite as flavorful as the next. Finally, brushing the top crust with a beaten egg and sprinkling it with Parmesan cheese before baking creates a golden, slightly crispy finish that complements the soft, gooey filling inside.

Why Italian Sub Squares Are Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best things about Italian Sub Squares is how well they fit into any occasion. They are incredibly easy to make and require minimal preparation, making them ideal for busy home cooks who want to prepare a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a snack for movie night, or bringing something unique to a potluck, this recipe is a reliable choice. Since they can be served warm or at room temperature, they also make a great option for events where food might be sitting out for a while. Unlike some appetizers that require constant reheating, Italian Sub Squares maintain their delicious texture and flavor long after they’ve been baked. Additionally, because they are baked in a single dish and cut into squares, they are easy to portion and serve, reducing mess and waste.

A Nostalgic Twist on a Classic Favorite

For many people, Italian Sub Squares evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of the traditional Italian subs they grew up eating. Italian subs, also known as hoagies, grinders, or heroes depending on the region, have been a staple in delis and sandwich shops for decades. Their combination of fresh bread, high-quality meats, and flavorful toppings makes them a favorite for sandwich lovers everywhere. This baked version offers a fun and innovative twist, taking all the best elements of a classic Italian sub and baking them into a convenient, handheld format. The warm, flaky crescent roll dough replaces the traditional sub bread, creating a comforting texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich, melted cheeses and bold-tasting meats.

Tips for Making the Best Italian Sub Squares

To ensure your Italian Sub Squares turn out perfectly every time, consider the following tips. First, make sure to seal the crescent roll dough properly to prevent any of the filling from leaking out during baking. Pressing the edges together well will help maintain the structure of the dish. Second, layering the ingredients evenly is key to getting a well-balanced bite in every square. Distributing the meats, cheeses, and toppings in equal layers ensures that no single ingredient overpowers the others. Finally, letting the dish cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into it helps the layers set and makes slicing easier. This waiting period allows the melted cheese to firm up slightly, preventing the squares from falling apart when served.

Pairing Suggestions for Italian Sub Squares

Italian Sub Squares pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Serving them with a classic marinara sauce or a garlic aioli dip can enhance their flavors even further. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a fresh garden salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of homemade soup. If you’re serving them at a gathering, offering a spread of different dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, balsamic glaze, or a creamy ranch dressing, can add an extra layer of customization for guests. A simple antipasto platter with olives, pickled vegetables, and Italian cheeses can also complement this dish beautifully.

Conclusion

Italian Sub Squares are a perfect example of how a simple twist on a classic dish can create something truly special. They bring together the beloved flavors of an Italian sub in an easy-to-make, shareable format that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a holiday party, or just as a fun snack, these squares are sure to be a crowd favorite. Their versatility, bold flavors, and ease of preparation make them a go-to recipe for both experienced cooks and beginners alike. With the ability to customize the ingredients to fit different dietary preferences and tastes, Italian Sub Squares can be enjoyed by just about anyone.