This Italian grinder sandwich is one of the most delicious, stand out sandwiches I have ever eaten. The creamy lettuce slaw adds a refreshing spicy crunch. Super soft, fresh Italian Bread takes a traditional cold cut sandwich to a higher level of sandwich. Layered within are three mouthwatering meats—savory salami, succulent turkey, and zesty pepperoni. Each of these delicious deli meats contributes its own unique flavor and richness. The provolone cheese is broiled and melted to perfection.
Although Italian grinder sandwiches gained a bit of attention a few years ago on TikTok, they are not a new food discovery. These sandwiches are commonly classified as Italian but have been a super popular sandwich in the New England states for almost a century. This is because of the prevalent Italian heritage and culture in New England. Interestingly, it was the most searched recipe on Google, specifically in the Milwaukee area. Local expert explains the popularity behind the ‘grinder sandwich’ | WUWM 89.7 FM – Milwaukee’s NPR
Italian Grinder Sandwich Preparation, Servings, and Storage
These delightful sandwiches are ideal for a satisfying lunch or a quick dinner and can be prepared in under 15 minutes. This recipe yields four hearty Italian grinder sandwiches, perfectly built to satisfy your hunger.
For the best experience in terms of flavor and texture, enjoy the sandwich right after it’s made. If you prefer a smaller batch, you can easily halve the recipe to create just two sandwiches. Additionally, the creamy slaw is a fantastic companion that can be savored for up to two days with an adjustment. The dressing and vegetables need to be stored unmixed. Just store the creamy dressing in a separate container, mixing it in right before you’re ready to prepare a fresh Italian grinder sandwich. Keep in mind, though, that the slaw is at its best the day it’s prepared, as the vinegar can cause the lettuce to wilt and become soggy if left for too long. So, to savor the bright flavors and crisp texture, it’s recommended to enjoy the slaw fresh!
Italian Grinder Sandwich
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- sheet pan
Ingredients
Creamy Lettuce Slaw
- 1/3 cup Mayonaise
- 2 tsp Red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Oregano
- 1/8 tsp Sea salt
- 1/8 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Hot banana peppers, Chopped
- 1/4 cup Red onion, sliced
- 2 cups Shredded lettuce
Sandwich Ingredients for toasting
- 2 Sub rolls, cut in half (Italian Bread)
- 12 slices Salami
- 12 slices Pepperoni (large deli slices)
- 12 slices Deli turkey
- 8 slices Provolone
- 1 Roma tomato
Instructions
Creamy lettuce slaw
- In a medium bowl, mix to combine the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, oregano, sea salt, and pepper.
- Fold in the onion slices, hot banana peppers, and lettuce to coat with the dressing. Set aside.
Toasting the Grinder
- Cut the sub rolls in half and place all 4 pieces on a large sheet pan.
- Layer the salami, pepperoni, deli turkey, provolone, and tomato onto the two bottom halves of the cut sub rolls.
- Turn the broiler on high and place the sheet pan in the oven.
- Broil the sandwiches for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the top portion of the buns are toasted.
- Remove from the oven and generously top the broiled sandwich with the lettuce slaw. Put the top of the roll on top of the sandwich and cut in half. Serve immediatley. Half of the sub roll is one serving.
Nutrition
I travel a lot and I try to find a local sandwich shop for an Italian grinder almost everywhere I go… this one stands with or even beats the best. Go-to at home.