There’s a certain comfort that comes with a warm, cheesy dish fresh out of the oven, especially when it evokes the beloved flavors of an Italian sub. After a long day of juggling work and family obligations, I found myself craving something satisfying yet simple to whip up—a dish that could bring everyone together at the table. Enter these Easy Italian Sub Squares! Combining flaky crescent roll dough with layers of chewy cheese, savory deli meats, and zesty roasted peppers, they’re like an Italian sub reimagined in a shareable form.
What I love most about these squares is their versatility. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at game day or enjoying a cozy family dinner, you can easily customize them to suit everyone’s taste buds—swap in your favorite veggies for a vegetarian twist or try a keto-friendly option for those watching their carbs. Ideal for potlucks or just a laid-back meal at home, these Italian Sub Squares are bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into this deliciously cheesy adventure!
Why are Italian Sub Squares a must-try?
Endless possibilities: These Italian Sub Squares are super customizable, making them perfect for any dietary preference—whether you’re vegetarian, keto, or a cheese lover! Crowd-pleaser: Their cheesy, savory goodness appeals to everyone, ensuring they’re a hit at gatherings. Easy to make: With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Flavor-packed: Each bite combines the best of Italian flavors, bringing the comforting taste of subs into shareable squares. Elevate your next meal with these mouthwatering squares!
Italian Sub Squares Ingredients
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For the Dough
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Crescent Roll Dough – Forms the flaky, buttery base and top crust; puff pastry can be used for extra flakiness.
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For the Fillings
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Sliced Ham – Adds a savory depth; substitute with turkey for a lighter option.
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Sliced Salami – Brings traditional Italian flair; turkey salami works well for a healthier choice.
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Sliced Pepperoni – Adds a spicy kick; use spicy turkey if you prefer a milder flavor.
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Sliced Provolone Cheese – Melts beautifully and creates that gooey texture; mozzarella or cheddar are great alternatives.
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Sliced Mozzarella Cheese – Boosts the cheesy goodness; consider gouda for a unique twist.
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Roasted Red Peppers – Offers sweetness and tang; fresh bell peppers can be a simple substitute.
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Sliced Banana Peppers – Delivers a zesty kick; skip or switch to sweet bell peppers for a milder option.
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Chopped Black Olives – Adds depth of flavor; omit if your family isn’t a fan.
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Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness; flaxseed meal mix works in eggless versions.
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Dried Italian Seasoning – Enhances flavor beautifully; substitute with herbs like oregano and basil for freshness.
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Grated Parmesan Cheese – Gives a savory, nutty finish; use nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
These Italian Sub Squares are not only easy to make but can be tailored to fit any meal occasion, promising you and your loved ones a delightful experience!
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 to ensure easy removal later.
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Prepare Base Dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough into the baking dish, making sure to seal the seams so you have a nice crust base for your squares.
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Layer Fillings: Spread a layer of sliced provolone cheese, followed by a mix of deli meats, mozzarella, and any desired toppings like roasted peppers and olives for added flavor.
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Top with More Dough: Carefully add the second can of crescent roll dough over the filling, sealing the edges tightly to lock in all that deliciousness.
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Season & Bake: Brush the top with melted butter, sprinkle generously with Italian seasoning, and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and heavenly.
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Cool & Slice: Allow the squares to cool for a few minutes once they come out of the oven, then slice them into squares, perfect for serving!
Optional: Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Italian Sub Squares?
Create the perfect spread to accompany this cheesy, savory delight and elevate your meal experience.
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Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and veggies provides a light contrast to the richness of the squares, offering balance in every bite. Drizzle with a zesty vinaigrette for an extra flavor kick!
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Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery sticks enhance the Italian theme while keeping things cozy. Their soft texture is perfect for dipping into marinara sauce alongside the squares.
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Potato Chips: A crunchy side that adds a satisfying texture contrast. Choose your favorite flavor for an extra punch; barbecue or sea salt are excellent options!
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Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie adds a dose of healthiness to your meal. Lightly seasoned, it pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the Italian Sub Squares.
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Marinara Sauce: Keep the classic Italian spirit alive by serving a side of marinara sauce for dipping. Its rich, tangy flavor complements the cheesy squares perfectly!
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Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio enhances the dining experience with fruity notes that echo the flavors of the sub squares, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Dessert Option: Finish off your meal with a slice of Tiramisu. Its creamy, coffee-infused charm provides a delightful sweet contrast to the savory squares, leaving everyone satisfied.
Expert Tips for Italian Sub Squares
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Seal Edges Well: Make sure to properly seal the edges of the dough to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
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Cool Before Cutting: Let the squares cool for a few minutes after baking; this helps maintain their shape and prevents messy slices.
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Customize Generously: Feel free to experiment with different meats and cheeses in the Italian Sub Squares, tailoring the flavor to meet everyone’s preferences.
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Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; ovens vary, so check for a golden brown crust to ensure they don’t overbake.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair your Italian Sub Squares with a side salad or warm soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
Italian Sub Squares Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Italian Sub Squares truly your own with these tasty twists!
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out all deli meats for a mix of roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, plus extra cheese for delicious depth.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or spicy giardiniera to the filling for a zesty burst. The heat elevates the flavors in every bite.
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Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as sharp cheddar or spicy pepper jack, to give your squares a distinctive flavor boost.
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Keto-Friendly: Replace crescent roll dough with a low-carb dough or serve the fillings wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing twist.
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Mediterranean Flare: Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a delightful infusion of Mediterranean flavors that’ll keep you coming back for more.
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Savory Spinach: Add a layer of sautéed spinach or kale to the mix for both nutrients and an extra hint of earthiness. It complements the savory meats beautifully.
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Sweet and Savory: Consider adding a handful of caramelized onions for a touch of sweetness that balances all the savory elements perfectly.
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Meat Lover’s Dream: Load up with additional meats like spicy sausage or turkey for an even heartier version that’ll satisfy all your cravings.
These variations make it easy to tailor the dish to your preferences and dietary needs, ensuring every bite is just as delightful as the last!
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Sub Squares are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy days! You can prepare the filling—slicing the meats, cheeses, and vegetables—up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the best quality, keep the crescent roll dough separate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven, layer the fillings on the dough as instructed, and bake. In just 25-30 minutes, you’ll have delicious, gooey squares that taste just as satisfying as if they were made fresh, making them ideal for a quick family meal or game day snacks!
Storage Tips for Italian Sub Squares
- Room Temperature: Allow the Italian Sub Squares to cool completely before storing, then keep them at room temperature for up to 2 hours, covered with a clean kitchen towel.
- Fridge: For short-term storage, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, ensuring the squares are well-sealed to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Wrap the cooled squares tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, slice before freezing for easy portions.
- Reheating: Reheat frozen Italian Sub Squares directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is bubbly.
Italian Sub Squares Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness for the ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting ingredients, especially for your Italian Sub Squares, look for cheeses that are fresh and free of any dark spots. For deli meats, choose ones that have a nice aroma and a vibrant color. Roasted red peppers should be firm and bright, while olives should have a glossy texture without any signs of shrinkage.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Italian Sub Squares?
Very good question! Store your Italian Sub Squares in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to maintain their texture. You can also cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil for easy access to those cheesy bites!
Can I freeze Italian Sub Squares, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Italian Sub Squares, let them cool completely after baking. Cut them into squares for easy portions, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. Store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them directly from the freezer at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
What should I do if my dough doesn’t seal well?
Not to worry! If you find that your dough isn’t sealing properly, you can use a bit of water on your fingers to help press the seams together. This moisture can act as a glue to bind the dough more effectively. Another trick is to use a fork to crimp the edges, creating a decorative seal that holds everything in place during baking.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! If you’re making Italian Sub Squares for guests with dietary restrictions, you can easily customize them. Use gluten-free crescent roll dough for those avoiding gluten, and swap the deli meats with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian version. For a vegan option, enlist the help of egg substitutes like a flaxseed meal mix in place of eggs and nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
Can I use store-bought ingredients, or should they be homemade?
It’s all about convenience! While I often enjoy making my own roasted peppers or deli meats at home, using store-bought ingredients for your Italian Sub Squares is perfectly fine and can save you time. Look for quality brands that have minimal preservatives for the best flavor, and you’re good to go!
Mouthwatering Italian Sub Squares Perfect for Easy Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure easy removal later.
- Prepare Base Dough: Unroll one can of crescent roll dough into the baking dish, making sure to seal the seams so you have a nice crust base for your squares.
- Layer Fillings: Spread a layer of sliced provolone cheese, followed by a mix of deli meats, mozzarella, and any desired toppings like roasted peppers and olives for added flavor.
- Top with More Dough: Carefully add the second can of crescent roll dough over the filling, sealing the edges tightly to lock in all that deliciousness.
- Season & Bake: Brush the top with melted butter, sprinkle generously with Italian seasoning, and bake for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden brown and heavenly.
- Cool & Slice: Allow the squares to cool for a few minutes once they come out of the oven, then slice them into squares, perfect for serving!
