Save The smell of salami and provolone hitting a hot skillet takes me back to late nights working at my uncles sub shop in Jersey. Something magical happens when those Italian cold cuts get warm and melty between buttery bread. This grilled cheese version captures that diner magic in twenty minutes flat.
My roommates used to request these on Friday nights when we were too broke to order out. Id stand at the stove, pressing down with my spatula while steam curled up from the pan. The first bite always made the whole week feel worth it.
Ingredients
- 4 slices Italian bread: Sturdy bread holds up to the filling without getting soggy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Softened butter spreads evenly for perfect golden crunch
- 4 slices provolone cheese: Mild and melty, it binds everything together beautifully
- 6 slices salami: Adds that classic Italian savory depth
- 6 slices pepperoni: Brings a hint of heat and extra crisp when grilled
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce: Stays crisp and cool against the hot filling
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for the lettuce topping
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Cuts through the rich meats and cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: That signature sub shop flavor you cannot skip
- Salt and pepper: Wake up all the other flavors
Instructions
- Make the lettuce topping:
- Toss shredded lettuce with mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Let it hang out while you prep everything else.
- Prep your bread:
- Butter one side of each bread slice generously. This is going to be the golden crispy exterior.
- Layer it up:
- Place two slices buttered side down and pile on provolone, salami, and pepperoni. Add any pepperoncini or onion you are feeling.
- Add the crunch:
- Spread that lettuce mixture right over the meats. It might seem weird but trust the process.
- Close the deal:
- Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing out. Press down gently to help everything settle.
- Get that golden crust:
- Cook in a hot skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side. Press gently with your spatula and watch for that perfect golden color.
- Serve it up:
- Cut each sandwich diagonally and serve while the cheese is still molten.
Save These sandwiches became my go to for feeding hungry friends after long days. Watching people take that first bite, eyes widening at the hot cold contrast, never got old.
Bread Choices
Sourdough adds a nice tang that complements the Italian meats. Just make sure whatever you choose is sturdy enough to handle all those fillings without falling apart.
Make It Spicy
Hot giardiniera instead of mild pepperoncini transforms this into a whole different beast. The vinegar and heat cut through the cheese even more beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
A handful of kettle chips on the side feels like the right move. A simple tomato salad with vinaigrette balances all the richness perfectly.
- Keep extra napkins nearby because these get messy
- Serve immediately, do not let them sit or the bread loses its crunch
- A cold Italian soda or beer pairs perfectly
Save Somehow this simple sandwich manages to taste like a special occasion every single time.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I use different types of bread?
Yes, Italian bread and sturdy white sandwich bread are recommended, but whole wheat or sourdough work well as alternatives. Choose bread with enough structure to hold the fillings without falling apart during grilling.
- → How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?
Build your sandwich in layers: bread, cheese first, then meats, then the lettuce mixture on top. This helps contain the cheese. Press gently while grilling rather than aggressively to keep everything in place.
- → What's the best way to get crispy, golden bread?
Use medium heat and cook 3-4 minutes per side. Buttering the outside of the bread before grilling is key. A skillet or grill pan works better than a flat griddle for even heat distribution and better browning.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
You can omit the salami and pepperoni and add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or grilled vegetables instead. The provolone cheese, lettuce mixture, and bread will still create a delicious grilled sandwich.
- → How do I add more heat to this sandwich?
Increase the oregano, add hot giardiniera instead of mild pepperoncini, or include sliced hot peppers. You can also drizzle hot sauce on the lettuce mixture or use spicy mayonnaise for extra kick.