Italian Sub Squares

A Deliciously Easy Twist on the Classic Italian Sub

Italian Sub Squares take all the bold, savory flavors of a classic Italian sub and transform them into a baked, crowd-pleasing dish. With layers of deli meats, cheeses, and zesty dressing encased in buttery crescent dough, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple layering and baking make this a stress-free dish.
• Perfect for a Crowd – Great for game nights, gatherings, or meal prep.
• Customizable – Swap meats, cheeses, or condiments to suit your tastes.
• Delicious Hot or Cold – Enjoy fresh from the oven or as a chilled lunch.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (8 oz each) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• ¼ lb sliced ham
• ¼ lb sliced salami
• ¼ lb sliced pepperoni
• ¼ lb sliced provolone cheese
• ¼ lb sliced mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup banana peppers, chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup roasted red peppers, drained and chopped (optional)
• ¼ cup Italian dressing
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Bottom Crust – Unroll one can of crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the baking dish, sealing any perforations.
3. Layer the Meats and Cheeses – Evenly layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, provolone, and mozzarella over the dough.
4. Add Flavor – Drizzle the Italian dressing over the layers and add banana peppers and roasted red peppers if using.
5. Top with Dough – Unroll the second can of crescent dough and place it over the top, pressing the edges to seal.
6. Make the Egg Wash – In a small bowl, whisk the eggs with Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
7. Brush and Bake – Brush the egg mixture over the top layer and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Cool and Slice – Let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Variations and Substitutions

• Spicy Version – Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot giardiniera.
• Vegetarian Option – Substitute deli meats with roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Different Cheeses – Swap provolone for Swiss or mozzarella for cheddar.
• Low-Carb Version – Use low-carb tortillas or keto-friendly dough instead of crescent rolls.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10 squares
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze – Wrap squares in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat – Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?

Pre-baking the bottom crescent dough for 5 minutes before adding the layers can help prevent sogginess.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

What dipping sauces go well with Italian Sub Squares?

Marinara, ranch, or a creamy Italian dressing pair well.

Can I use puff pastry instead of crescent dough?

Yes, but bake at 375°F and adjust the time as needed.

Are Italian Sub Squares good for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well in the fridge and can be easily reheated.

Can I use different meats?

Yes, turkey, roast beef, or prosciutto can work as tasty alternatives.

What side dishes pair well with this?

A simple green salad, chips, or antipasto platter complement this dish.

Can I make this without eggs?

You can skip the egg wash, but it helps with browning and flavor.

How do I make a gluten-free version?

Use gluten-free crescent dough or an alternative dough substitute.

Is this dish better hot or cold?

It’s delicious both ways! Enjoy warm out of the oven or chilled as a sandwich-style snack.

Conclusion

Italian Sub Squares are a delicious, fun take on the traditional Italian sub. With layers of savory meats, gooey cheese, and a buttery crust, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, prepping meals for the week, or just craving a comforting, cheesy delight, this recipe is a must-try. Try it with your favorite ingredients and make it your own!

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