The first time I made Italian Sub Squares, I was taken aback by how quickly they disappeared at our family gathering. Each bite combines the comforting goodness of a classic Italian sub with the flakiness of crescent roll dough—it’s like taking a joyful leap into a world of savory flavors! Picture gooey melted cheese, layers of zesty deli meats, and colorful vegetables, all baked to golden perfection.
These squares are not just a hit—they’re also a breeze to whip up, making them the ideal choice for potlucks, game nights, or even a cozy weeknight dinner. What I love most is their versatility; whether you’re a meat lover or looking for a vegetarian twist, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready for a dish that’s sure to steal the show and satisfy your cravings in the most delicious way!
Why Love These Italian Sub Squares?
Italian Sub Squares are a game-changer for your gatherings!
Simple Prep: With just a few ingredients and steps, you’ll have a scrumptious entrée ready in no time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their delightful taste resembles the beloved Italian sub, making them irresistible to guests of all ages.
Customizable: Easily adapt based on preferences—swap meats for veggies or add extra cheese for a richer experience!
Comfort Food: The gooey filling combined with flaky crust delivers the cozy satisfaction everyone craves.
Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual family dinners to festive potlucks, these squares are your go-to dish for effortless entertaining!
Italian Sub Squares Ingredients
For the Dough
• Crescent Roll Dough – Provides the flaky, buttery base; can substitute with puff pastry for a flakier texture.
For the Filling
• Sliced Ham – Adds a savory and salty flavor; substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Sliced Salami – Contributes a robust taste; use pepperoni or a different cured meat if preferred.
• Sliced Pepperoni – Offers a spicy kick; omit for a milder dish or replace with capicola.
• Sliced Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully for that cheesy goodness; mozzarella can be your go-to substitution.
• Sliced Mozzarella Cheese – Provides creaminess and stretch; swap with a mild cheddar if desired.
• Roasted Red Peppers – Adds sweetness and color; replace with fresh bell peppers or omit for a simpler taste.
• Sliced Banana Peppers – Offers a tangy touch; include jalapeños for additional heat if you like spice.
• Chopped Black Olives – Adds a briny flavor; choose no olives or replace with green olives as an alternative.
For Binding and Flavor
• Large Eggs – Binds everything together when baked; no substitutes recommended for this ingredient.
• Dried Italian Seasoning – Enhances overall flavor; use a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme if you lack a pre-mixed seasoning.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Finishing touch that adds umami depth; optional but recommended for its nutty flavor.
How to Make Italian Sub Squares
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your delicious squares won’t stick!
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Layer the Dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the dish, sealing any perforations to create a smooth base for your filling.
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Add the Fillings: Start layering with provolone cheese, followed by sliced ham, salami, and pepperoni. For added color and flavor, sprinkle on the roasted red peppers and banana peppers, if using.
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Top with More Dough: Roll out the second can of dough and carefully cover the entire filling, making sure to seal the edges well to trap all those mouthwatering flavors inside.
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Season & Bake: Brush the top layer with melted butter, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and enticing.
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Cool & Slice: Allow the dish to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes, then slice into squares and serve warm for maximum gooey goodness!
Optional: Drizzle with extra olive oil or your favorite balsamic vinegar for a delightful finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Italian Sub Squares?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful side dishes that beautifully complement the rich, savory flavors of your Italian Sub Squares.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty squares perfectly.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, these breadsticks enhance the Italian theme and add a comforting touch.
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Zucchini Fries: Baked or air-fried zucchini fries offer a crispy texture and a lighter option, making them a wonderful pairing with the hearty squares.
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Marinara Sauce: Serve a warm bowl of marinara for dipping; the sauce’s acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and meats.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of vibrant, roasted seasonal vegetables provides a colorful, nutritious contrast to the savory filling.
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Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges or fries have a satisfying crunch that works well alongside the gooey, cheesy squares, making for a fun meal.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing drink that adds a zesty pop and cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing your dining experience.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, serve homemade chocolate chip cookies that everyone will adore, keeping the mood light and merry.
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Sub Squares are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the filling and layer it between the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble everything but the final baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. This helps infuse the flavors and keeps it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven and bake as directed. For optimal quality, avoid adding too many wet ingredients, such as pickled or roasted vegetables, which can make the dough soggy. You’ll be rewarded with a delicious dish that’s just as mouthwatering as if it were freshly made!
Italian Sub Squares Variations
Feel free to make these delightful squares your own with some fun twists and substitutions!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace all meats with a medley of grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and fresh spinach for a hearty, meat-free option.
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Cheese Lovers: Add extra layers of mozzarella and provolone or bring in a sharp cheddar for a richer, creamier filling that’ll make cheese enthusiasts swoon.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in some sliced jalapeños or opt for spicy capicola in place of traditional deli meats to elevate the heat level and excitement in every bite.
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Italian Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano in addition to the dried Italian seasoning for an aromatic burst of flavor that will transport your senses straight to Italy.
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Crunchy Texture: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or some crispy fried onions on top before baking for crunch and added texture variations.
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Smoky Flavor: Use smoked provolone or gouda cheese instead of regular provolone for a deeper, more complex taste that beautifully complements the other ingredients.
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Low-Carb Option: Try using a cauliflower crust or lettuce wraps instead of dough for a lighter, low-carb version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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Creative Dips: Experiment with serving these squares with different dips like pesto, marinara, or even a tangy mustard sauce that can add a fun dimension to your meal.
Dive into these delicious variations and discover your favorite combination!
Storage Tips for Italian Sub Squares
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Fridge: Store leftover Italian Sub Squares in an airtight container, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
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Reheating: To reheat, place thawed squares in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through and the crust regains its flakiness.
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Serving Suggestion: Consider serving with a side of marinara sauce for dipping after reheating, adding an extra layer of flavor to these delightful squares.
Expert Tips for Italian Sub Squares
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Cool Before Cutting: Allow the dish to rest a few minutes before slicing; this ensures cleaner cuts and prevents the filling from spilling out.
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Drain Veggies: If using vegetables like banana peppers, make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture that can make the dough soggy.
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Golden Finish: Brush the top layer thoroughly with melted butter, ensuring every corner gets attention for that beautiful golden color.
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Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap out meats, but remember not to overload with too many fillings; balance is key for the best Italian Sub Squares.
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Keep It Flaky: If you opt for puff pastry instead of crescent roll dough, keep an eye on baking time as they may cook differently.
Italian Sub Squares Recipe FAQs
What kind of dough should I use for Italian Sub Squares?
Absolutely! For Italian Sub Squares, crescent roll dough is the star of the show, giving that buttery and flaky texture. If you’re up for a twist, you can try using puff pastry for an even flakier experience. Just keep an eye on the baking time as puff pastry tends to cook differently!
How should I store leftover Italian Sub Squares?
Leftover Italian Sub Squares should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll remain fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months!
Can I make Italian Sub Squares ahead of time?
Certainly! You can prepare the Italian Sub Squares ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the fridge before baking. Cover the dish tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What if I want to make a vegetarian version of Italian Sub Squares?
The more the merrier! To make a vegetarian version, swap the meats for an assortment of your favorite veggies. Spinach, artichokes, or zucchini work wonderfully. You can also add extra cheeses like feta or goat cheese for added richness. The key is to balance the flavors and keep it tasty!
How should I reheat Italian Sub Squares after freezing?
To reheat your frozen Italian Sub Squares, first, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the squares on a baking sheet. Warm them up for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and the crust has regained its flakiness. If you’d like, serve them with a side of marinara sauce for a delightful dipping experience!
Mouthwatering Italian Sub Squares for Effortless Entertaining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Layer the Dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the dish.
- Add the Fillings: Begin layering with provolone cheese, followed by ham, salami, and pepperoni. Add red and banana peppers if using.
- Top with More Dough: Roll out the second can of dough and carefully cover the filling, sealing the edges.
- Season & Bake: Brush the top with melted butter, sprinkle with Italian seasoning, and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool & Slice: Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes, slice into squares and serve warm.