Name: Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: #
Ingredients: 1 large round Italian bread loaf (about 10 inches in diameter); ¼ cup olive oil (for brushing); 1 teaspoon dried oregano (for seasoning); 1 teaspoon dried basil (for herbaceous flavor); ¼ lb thinly sliced turkey ham (savory and lean); ¼ lb thinly sliced beef salami (robust and spicy); ¼ lb thinly sliced mortadella (rich and flavorful); ¼ lb sliced provolone cheese (sharp and creamy); ¼ lb sliced mozzarella cheese (mild and melty); 1 cup olive salad (store-bought or homemade – see notes below); ¼ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (optional, for a tangy kick)

Description

The Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich recipe and steps

Ingredients

Scale

1 large round Italian bread loaf (about 10 inches in diameter)
¼ cup olive oil (for brushing)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (for seasoning)
1 teaspoon dried basil (for herbaceous flavor)
¼ lb thinly sliced turkey ham (savory and lean)
¼ lb thinly sliced beef salami (robust and spicy)
¼ lb thinly sliced mortadella (rich and flavorful)
¼ lb sliced provolone cheese (sharp and creamy)
¼ lb sliced mozzarella cheese (mild and melty)
1 cup olive salad (store-bought or homemade – see notes below)
¼ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (optional, for a tangy kick)

Instructions

1: Prepare the Bread

Slice the large Italian bread loaf in half horizontally to create a top and bottom half. Use a serrated knife for a clean cut.

2: Make the Herb Oil

In a small bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
Generously brush the mixture onto both cut sides of the bread. This will enhance the flavor and keep the sandwich moist.

3: Layer the Ingredients

On the bottom half of the bread, start layering:
- First, add a layer of turkey ham, evenly distributing the slices.
- Next, layer the beef salami for a spicy contrast.
- Follow with mortadella, adding its rich and buttery flavor.
- Place the provolone cheese slices next, overlapping slightly.
- Add the mozzarella cheese for a mild and creamy finish.
Spread 1 cup of olive salad evenly over the cheese layer, ensuring every bite will include its tangy goodness.
If desired, add ¼ cup of sliced pepperoncini peppers for an extra burst of tang and heat.

4: Assemble and Compress

Carefully place the top half of the bread over the layered ingredients, pressing down gently to compact the sandwich.
Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap to hold everything together.
Place a heavy object, like a cast-iron skillet or a few cans, on top of the wrapped sandwich. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This step compresses the sandwich, melding all the flavors together beautifully.

5: Serve

Before serving, unwrap the sandwich and use a sharp knife to cut it into wedges or slices.
Serve immediately and enjoy this hearty, flavor-packed creation!

Notes

Olive Salad Recipe (Optional): For a homemade olive salad, combine finely chopped green and black olives, celery, carrots, cauliflower, capers, garlic, and roasted red peppers. Toss with olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, basil, and parsley. Let marinate for 24 hours for best flavor.
Storage: The prepared sandwich can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with potato chips, a crisp green salad, or a refreshing Italian soda for the perfect meal.
Warming Option: While traditionally served cold, you can warm the sandwich in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes if you prefer melted cheese.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours (refrigeration time)
Category: Dinner

Nutrition

Calories: 450 kcal
Sodium: 1,100 mg
Protein: 20 g

Keywords: #