I am a massive fan of sandwiches. I look for fun new recipes to ensure my lunches never get boring.
These 10 Italian sandwiches deliver amazing flavor in spades. They are bright and fresh and colorful.
I included a meatball sub and my favorite prosciutto option. You really cannot go wrong with any of these.
I hope you like carbs and saved room for a healthy lunch. These sandwiches are no joke.
Let’s get to it!
1. Meatball Subs
What could be better than a soft roll stuffed with marinara and cheese? I love the juicy meatballs in there too.
Feel free to use store-bought meatballs or make your own. I keep some in the freezer for last-minute dinners.
A jar of pre-made marinara works perfectly fine here. The recipe is super straightforward.
You just simmer crushed tomatoes with oregano and basil plus sugar and garlic salt. I added onions for a little texture.
2. Italian Sandwich With Prosciutto Di Parma
I absolutely adore prosciutto. I rarely buy it because I tend to eat the whole pack right out of the fridge.
It is a little pricey but worth every penny. You want complementary ingredients that do not overpower the flavor.
This sandwich is pretty unique. You add pesto and mozzarella.
It also includes grilled peppers and artichoke hearts. They give it a pleasant acidic taste.
3. Italian Meat Loaf Sandwiches
Meatloaf is a terrific dinner. But what do you do with the leftovers?
You should try these incredible meatloaf sandwiches instead of eating the same meal twice. The meatloaf is so tender.
You will want to toast or grill the bread. Spread plenty of butter over each side so it turns golden.
I lacked pizza sauce so I made the sandwich with cheese and peppers. I served some ketchup on the side.
4. The BEST Caprese Sandwich
This combination is most famous as a salad. It features fresh tomatoes and sliced mozzarella plus basil.
It is believed to come from the island of Capri. It is super juicy.
I love the mild creamy flavor from the mozzarella. That texture is to die for.
Drizzle it with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt. You could put it into crusty white bread with balsamic glaze.
The optional arugula adds a nice peppery finish. You could add grilled chicken for a protein boost.
5. Italian Tuna Salad Sandwich
I have never been a huge lover of creamy tuna sandwiches. I saw this zesty and salty Italian tuna sandwich and knew I had to make it.
It includes just a teaspoon or two of mayo. That works as a binder to keep everything together.
The flavor comes from a combination of artichoke hearts and olives plus capers. It also has shallots and crushed red pepper flakes.
Lemon juice and zest round it out.
6. Grilled Marshmallow Nutella
I really wanted to include something sweet on this list. Nutella is an Italian invention luckily for us.
You will need thick slices of soft white bread for this dreamy dish. Use Nutella or any hazelnut spread plus mini marshmallows.
Try not to overdo it with the marshmallows. It might seep out and burn in the pan.
Cook this on medium heat so the bread toasts while the middle melts.
7. Italian Pinwheels
Tortillas usually have as many carbs as bread. They do feel lighter though.
These are for you if you want a sandwich without that stuffed feeling. It starts with a heavenly mix of cream cheese and red pepper.
Add banana pepper plus Italian bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. Spread that to the edges of the tortilla.
Layer some cheese down the middle. Provolone is the best option.
Salami works excellent here for the meat.
8. Mortadella Focaccia Sandwich
Have you ever made your own focaccia? Please try this recipe right away.
It is insanely easy and delicious. I truthfully eat focaccia on its own.
It does not need anything else when loaded with rosemary and sea salt. You will need new ways to use it up once you start making it.
That is where this sandwich comes in. The piquillo jalapeño mayonnaise is crazy good.
I made extra to dip the sandwich in while I ate.
9. Toasted Italian Sub Sandwiches
There is an art to building the perfect sub. It starts with the right kind of bread.
They should be toasted in my opinion. Use a softer hoagie roll so it crisps up perfectly inside without being too tough.
You need a healthy amount of pesto sauce. Use enough so it does not just seep into the bread but does not drip out.
Use a selection of meats and veggies for the ideal salty crunchy ratio. Salami is a must.
I love red onion for its peppery taste.
10. Italian Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Grilled cheese sandwiches are timeless. We need to put away rubbery cheese slices as we get older.
This version is refined but understated. Keep it simple with tomato and mozzarella.
Add pesto for something really scrumptious. Sun dried tomato pesto is another lovely option.
I think thick slices of sourdough are best. Fresh bread is better than pre sliced bread here.