Easy Pizza Sub Recipe: Perfect Party Sandwich
As the smell of fresh bread and melted cheese filled the air, I was taken back to my childhood. Pizza night was always the best part of the week. This easy pizza sub recipe brings that same joy, turning your favorite pizza into a delicious sandwich perfect for any event.
This loaded pizza sandwich is a mini party in your mouth. It’s made with a 12-inch loaf of soft bread, filled with classic pizza toppings, sauce, and lots of cheese. It’s great for backyard barbecues or a quick, tasty meal. This recipe is sure to become a hit with your family.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Pizza Subs: A Party Favorite
Pizza subs are a favorite at parties, mixing pizza flavors with sandwich ease. They’re perfect for gatherings, game days, or family dinners. You can pick from many toppings, making them a hit with everyone.
At game nights, barbecues, or birthdays, pizza subs are a crowd-pleaser. They mix Italian meats, cheese, and pizza sauce for a tasty mix. Plus, they’re easy to eat while you’re with friends or watching a game.
You can choose from Italian sub rolls to pizza dough for your subs. They let you make classics like the pizza submarine or try new things like the italian pizza sub. The choices are endless, making them great for any event.
“Pizza subs are the ultimate fusion of two beloved comfort foods – pizza and sandwiches. They’re the perfect handheld treat for any occasion, from game day to family dinners.”
Pizza subs are a great choice for a pizza party or a tasty meal. They bring people together, making them a favorite at any gathering.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Pizza Sub
Making the ultimate pizza sub roll starts with picking the right ingredients. You need soft bread and savory toppings. Each part is key to a delicious sandwich. Let’s look at what makes a pizza sub stand out.
Bread Selection Tips
The base of a great pizza sub is the bread. Choose a soft, 12-inch loaf from the specialty section. A pizza bread recipe that’s light and airy is perfect for holding toppings.
Cheese Varieties
Provolone and mozzarella are top choices for cheese. Provolone’s creamy texture goes well with toppings. Fresh mozzarella adds a burst of flavor.
Meat and Toppings Options
- Genoa salami and pepperoni give a strong, Italian taste.
- Kalamata olives, green peppers, and herbs like basil or oregano add color and flavor.
- Marinara sauce brings all the flavors together, making the sub delicious.
With the right bread, cheese, meat, and toppings, you’ll make a pizza sub everyone will love. Try different ingredients to find your favorite.
Pizza Sub Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a tasty easy pizza sub or homemade pizza sub is simple. Just a few steps can turn basic ingredients into a delicious sandwich. Let’s explore how to make the perfect pizza sub.
- Begin by cutting your bread in half horizontally. This will be the base of your sub.
- Drizzle olive oil on both halves of the bread for a good coating.
- On the bottom half, put slices of provolone cheese, then salami and pepperoni. This mix of meat and cheese is the sub’s base.
- Add fresh herbs, sliced olives, and green pepper strips to boost the flavors.
- Spread marinara sauce over the toppings for even coverage.
- Put a thick layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top, about 1.5 cups for 4 sub rolls.
- Place the sub in the oven or broiler until the cheese melts and the bread toasts lightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once done, put the top and bottom halves together. Cut into four parts and serve.
This easy pizza sub recipe makes 4 servings and takes 15 minutes to make. The secret is balancing bread, cheese, meat, and sauce for a tasty sub that will wow your guests.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Bread | 1 loaf (7-8 inches long) |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
Provolone cheese | 8 slices |
Salami | 20 slices |
Pepperoni | 20 slices |
Fresh herbs (basil, oregano) | 2 tbsp, chopped |
Sliced olives | 1/4 cup |
Green pepper | 1 small, sliced thin |
Marinara sauce | 1 cup |
Mozzarella cheese | 1.5 cups, shredded |
With these easy steps and the right ingredients, you can make a delicious homemade pizza sub. It will satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
The Art of Layering Your Pizza Sub
Making the perfect pizza sandwich is all about layering. This method makes sure the flavors mix well and the bread stays crispy. Let’s explore the key steps to make your pizza sandwich just right.
Base Layer Technique
Begin by drizzling olive oil on the inside of your bread slices. This helps keep the bread dry from the toppings’ moisture. Then, place provolone cheese slices on top, making sure they cover the bread evenly.
Proper Sauce Distribution
Use about 1/3 cup of marinara sauce per serving. Spread it over the cheese with a spoon or knife. This ensures the sauce is evenly spread, avoiding dry or too wet spots.
Topping Arrangement
- Place your favorite pizza toppings on top of the sauce. Choose from pepperoni, salami, mushrooms, bell peppers, and fresh basil.
- Finish with a thick layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Make sure it covers everything.
This layering method makes every bite of your pizza sandwich full of flavor and texture. The base layer keeps things moist, the sauce is spread just right, and the toppings are perfectly placed. Enjoy a delicious homemade pizza sub experience.
Choosing the Right Bread for Your Sub
Choosing the right bread is key to a perfect pizza sub. Look for a soft, 12-inch white loaf in the specialty bread section. Crusty artisan-style bread is not ideal because it’s too firm.
The soft bread makes it easy to bite into the sandwich. It also keeps the toppings in place. Slice the loaf horizontally to get a top and bottom half for layering.
Brioches and challahs are great choices too. They add a soft, pillowy texture that balances the toppings. Rolls and thick-cut slices work well for meatballs or pulled pork.
Think about the flavor and texture you want. The bread should enhance the taste and look of your pizza sub. This makes for a delightful meal.
Finding the right balance between bread and toppings is essential. With the right pizza bread recipe, your sandwich will be a hit at any event.
Sauce and Seasonings Guide
Creating the perfect italian pizza sub or pizza sandwich starts with the sauce and seasonings. These elements are key to getting the authentic taste. Let’s look at the differences between marinara and pizza sauce. We’ll also find the best herb combinations to make your sandwich stand out.
Marinara vs Pizza Sauce
Marinara and pizza sauce both come from tomatoes, but they taste different. Marinara is lighter and more acidic. Pizza sauce is thicker and richer. Choose pizza sauce for a bold, true pizza taste in your sandwich.
Fresh Herb Combinations
Add fresh herbs to your pizza sandwich for a boost. A mix of thyme, parsley, and basil brings aromatic flavors. Try adding oregano or rosemary for a unique taste.
To make a great italian pizza sub or pizza sandwich, balance sauce and seasonings. Use about 1/3 cup of sauce. Let the fresh herbs be the main attraction for a perfect flavor mix.
Cheese Melting Techniques and Tips
Getting the cheese just right is key for a tasty pizza sub recipe or homemade pizza sub. Use a mix of provolone and fresh mozzarella for the best melt. Provolone gives a solid base, while mozzarella adds that stretchy, gooey texture.
When broiling, watch closely to avoid burning or uneven melting. Rotate the baking sheet as needed for even melting. Ted’s Restaurant in Meriden uses a steamer for perfect Vermont cheddar on their steamed cheeseburgers.
Understanding cheese melting science is important. As cheese ages, its fat softens, changing how it melts. Younger cheeses melt gently, while older ones melt better with higher heat.
Emulsifiers, like in American cheese, help cheese melt smoothly. Natural emulsifiers, like tricalcium phosphate or flour, can also make a creamy cheese sauce for your pizza sub recipe or homemade pizza sub.
Cheese Type | Melting Technique | Recommended Uses |
---|---|---|
Provolone | Broil or steam | Provides a solid base for the cheese layer |
Fresh Mozzarella | Broil or steam | Adds the classic stretchy, melty texture |
Parmesan | Broil or steam | Crisps up nicely due to its low moisture content |
Cheddar, Gruyère | Broil or steam | Can form a leathery layer if not melted properly |
Try different cheese mixes and melting methods to get a perfectly melted cheese layer. This will take your pizza sub recipe or homemade pizza sub to the next level.
Creative Topping Combinations
The beauty of a pizza submarine is the endless possibilities for creative topping combinations. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Italian flavor profile or a Mediterranean-inspired twist, there’s a pizza sub to satisfy every craving.
Classic Italian Style
For a traditional Italian-inspired pizza sub, start with savory salami and spicy pepperoni. Add tangy olives, fresh basil, and a generous sprinkle of Italian seasoning. The combination of cured meats, briny olives, and aromatic herbs creates a flavor explosion that’s truly irresistible.
Mediterranean Version
Craving a more Mediterranean flair? Try a pizza sub with artichoke hearts, tangy feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes. The pop of color and unique flavors from these toppings will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
Meat Lover’s Option
For the ultimate in meaty indulgence, layer your pizza sub with crumbled Italian sausage, crispy bacon, and savory Canadian ham. This hearty combination of pork products will satisfy even the most ardent meat lover’s cravings.
Of course, these are just a few ideas to get you started. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own favorite pizza toppings, such as banana peppers, mushrooms, or onions. Just be mindful not to overload your sub, as you want to maintain the structural integrity of the sandwich.
Topping Combination | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
---|---|---|
Classic Italian | Salami, pepperoni, olives, basil | Savory, spicy, herbal |
Mediterranean | Artichoke hearts, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes | Tangy, briny, bold |
Meat Lover’s | Italian sausage, bacon, Canadian ham | Hearty, rich, indulgent |
No matter which topping combination you choose, the key to a delicious pizza submarine is balancing the flavors and textures to create a harmonious and satisfying sandwich. Experiment, have fun, and enjoy the endless possibilities of this versatile dish.
Broiling and Baking Instructions
To make the perfect easy pizza sub, you need to broil and bake it just right. First, heat your oven to broil, which is about 450°F (230°C). Then, put the pizza sub recipe on a baking sheet, making sure it’s even.
Broil the sandwich for 3 to 5 minutes. Watch it closely to avoid burning. Turn the sheet a few times to cook it evenly. You want the cheese to melt and the bread to get crispy, but stay soft inside.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Hoagie rolls | 2 long |
Servings | 4 people |
Calories per serving | 192 kcal |
Preparation time | 5 minutes |
Cooking time | 10 minutes |
Total time | 15 minutes |
When the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted, take the easy pizza sub out of the oven. Let it cool for a minute or two. Then, slice and serve. This way, the pizza sub recipe is hot, with a crispy outside and a soft inside. It’s perfect for a party.
“The key to a truly satisfying easy pizza sub is in the perfect balance of broiling and baking – just enough to melt the cheese and toast the bread, without drying out the interior.”
Serving and Presentation Ideas
After your pizza sandwich is perfectly broiled and the cheese is melted, it’s time to serve. Let the sub cool a bit before cutting it into four equal parts. Each quarter can then be halved again for neat, bite-sized pieces.
Serve the pizza sub hot to enjoy the best taste and texture. You can arrange the slices on a large platter for a family-style presentation. This is great for parties and gatherings, making your pizza sandwich the main attraction.
Serving Suggestions | Presentation Tips |
---|---|
Slice the pizza sub into 4 equal pieces Cut each quarter in half for bite-sized portions Serve immediately while hot for optimal taste and texture | Arrange the sliced pizza sub pieces on a large platter Present the homemade pizza sub in a family-style setting Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for visual appeal |
By following these simple tips, your pizza sandwich will be the highlight of any event. It will show off your cooking skills and impress your guests.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Enjoying a delicious pizza sub is only half the fun. Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to keeping leftovers tasty. With a few simple tricks, you can enjoy your homemade pizza sub long after the first time.
Proper Wrapping Methods
If you have leftover pizza sub, wrap it in aluminum foil or airtight plastic wrap. This keeps it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. It helps keep the bread soft and the flavors in.
Reheating Guidelines
Ready to enjoy your leftover pizza sub? There are a few ways to reheat it:
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Reheat for about 10 minutes until hot.
- Toaster Oven: Set to 400°F (204°C). Reheat for around 10 minutes.
- Skillet: Heat on medium. Reheat for 6-8 minutes, flipping often, until hot and cheese is melted.
- Microwave: Try to avoid it. It can make the bread soggy. If you must, heat at 50% power for about 1 minute.
For the best taste, eat your leftover pizza sub within 1-2 days. Stored and reheated right, it will taste as fresh as the first time.
Conclusion
The pizza sub recipe is a tasty mix of pizza and a handheld sub. It’s great for parties, game days, or quick meals. You can try different toppings to find your favorite.
This recipe makes a pizza sub that everyone will love. It’s easy to make and looks good too. It’s perfect for making your next dinner or party special.
Make the easy pizza sub a part of your cooking. Try new flavors and show off your creativity. It’s a great way to make any meal special.
FAQ
What is a pizza sub?
A pizza sub is a sandwich that mixes pizza flavors with the ease of a sub. It has soft bread filled with pizza toppings, sauce, and melted cheese.
What are the key ingredients for a pizza sub?
The main ingredients for a pizza sub are a soft 12-inch bread loaf, olive oil, and provolone cheese. It also includes Genoa salami, pepperoni, fresh herbs, Kalamata olives, green peppers, marinara sauce, and fresh mozzarella.
How do you make a pizza sub?
To make a pizza sub, start by slicing the bread in half lengthwise. Drizzle olive oil on both halves. Then, layer provolone cheese, salami, and pepperoni on the bottom half.
Add herbs, olives, and green peppers next. Spread marinara sauce and top with mozzarella cheese. Broil until the cheese melts and the bread toasts.
What type of bread works best for a pizza sub?
The best bread for a pizza sub is a 12-inch soft white loaf from the specialty section. Avoid crusty bread as it’s hard to eat as a sandwich.
How do you prevent the pizza sub from getting soggy?
To avoid a soggy pizza sub, use the right amount of sauce (about 1/3 cup). Layer ingredients starting with olive oil, then cheese, meats, vegetables, and sauce on top.
Can you customize the toppings on a pizza sub?
Yes, you can customize a pizza sub. Try different toppings like Italian sausage, bacon, Canadian ham, banana peppers, mushrooms, and onions to find your favorite.
How do you reheat a leftover pizza sub?
To reheat a pizza sub, wrap it in foil or plastic wrap. Heat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. This way, it stays warm without getting soggy. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.