Italian Sub Squares are everything you love about a classic Italian sub—bold flavors, savory meats, creamy cheese, and tangy dressing—baked into an easy, shareable, crowd-pleasing dish. Instead of layering everything into individual sandwiches, this recipe transforms the iconic deli favorite into warm, sliceable squares that are perfect for parties, family dinners, game days, or make-ahead lunches.
This dish has that unmistakable Italian-American deli vibe: salty cured meats, melty cheese, soft bread, and a zesty dressing that soaks into every layer. Baking it all together allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting, hearty bite in every square. Best of all, Italian Sub Squares are simple to assemble, use familiar ingredients, and can be served warm or at room temperature—making them incredibly practical for busy days or entertaining.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Bread Base
- 1 package (450 g / 1 lb) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Filling
- 120 g (4 oz) sliced deli ham
- 120 g (4 oz) sliced salami
- 120 g (4 oz) sliced pepperoni
- 180 g (1½ cups) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 100 g (1 cup) shredded provolone cheese
- ½ medium onion, thinly sliced
- ½ green bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Italian Dressing
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
Detailed Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a 23 × 33 cm (9 × 13-inch) baking dish with a small amount of olive oil.
Unroll the pizza dough and gently press it into the bottom of the prepared dish, stretching it slightly so it covers the base evenly. Brush the surface of the dough lightly with olive oil. This helps create a flavorful, slightly crisp bottom layer once baked.
2. Build the Meat and Cheese Layers
Start layering the filling directly on top of the dough. First, evenly arrange the sliced ham over the dough, followed by the salami and then the pepperoni. Spread the meats so every square will have a good balance of flavors.
Next, sprinkle half of the mozzarella and provolone cheeses evenly over the meat. Add the sliced onion and green bell pepper, distributing them evenly across the surface. Finish with the remaining cheese, ensuring full coverage for a melty, cohesive top.
3. Prepare the Italian Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the layered filling. Use the back of a spoon to gently spread it so it reaches all corners. This dressing is what gives the Italian Sub Squares their signature tangy, deli-style flavor.
4. Add Optional Toppings
If desired, sprinkle the top with sesame seeds and grated Parmesan cheese. These add extra flavor and a subtle crunch once baked, echoing the taste of a classic sub roll.
5. Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the dough is fully cooked and golden at the edges and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
If the top begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
6. Rest, Slice, and Serve
Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. This step is important—it helps the layers set, making the squares easier to cut and serve.
Slice into even squares using a sharp knife or spatula and serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Italian Sub Squares are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:
- As a main dish with a simple green salad
- Cut into smaller squares for parties or buffets
- Packed for lunches and reheated gently
- Served alongside pickles, olives, or coleslaw
They’re hearty enough to stand alone but pair beautifully with lighter sides.
