Easy and Cheesy Pizza Sub Recipe You’ll Want to Make Again and Again

What Is a Pizza Sub?

A pizza sub recipe brings together two fan favorites – pizza and sandwiches – into one mouth-watering meal. This tasty creation features a submarine sandwich roll loaded with pizza sauce, melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or any time you crave the flavors of pizza in a handheld form!

The history of the pizza sub recipe dates back to Italian-American communities where sandwich shops started to add pizza flavors to their menu options. These shops applied the science behind proper cheese melting to create the perfect balance between crispy bread and gooey toppings. Today, you’ll find pizza sub recipes featured in delis, sandwich chains, and homes across America.

Different regions put their own spin on this classic pizza sub recipe. New York pizza subs often feature thin layers of pepperoni with plenty of mozzarella, while Chicago versions might include thicker, chunkier sauce with more toppings. Many pizza shops now offer their own versions of homemade pizza sub recipes, showing how popular these tasty sandwiches have become.

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Ppizza sub recipe

The Bread

The foundation of any great pizza sub recipe starts with the right bread. Italian submarine rolls work best because they offer:

• A crusty exterior that stands up to sauce
• Soft interior that soaks up flavors
• Sturdy structure that holds toppings well
• Shape that mimics traditional sub sandwiches

Many home cooks prefer to use freshly baked submarine rolls for the best taste and texture. If you don’t have time to make your own, look for bakery-fresh Italian rolls or French baguettes at your local grocery store.

The Sauce

Pizza sauce serves as the flavor base for your sub. A good sauce should be:

• Thick enough to stay on the bread
• Rich with tomato flavor
• Well-seasoned with Italian herbs
• Not too watery to prevent soggy bread

Store-bought pizza sauce works in a pinch, but homemade marinara sauce adds a fresh touch that can make your pizza sub recipe stand out. Just cook it down a bit longer to thicken it for sandwich use.

Cheese Options

The cheese makes or breaks a pizza sub. Mozzarella cheese ranks as the most popular choice because it melts beautifully and offers that classic pizza pull. For the best results:

• Use whole milk mozzarella for better melt
• Shred your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded
• Add some provolone for extra flavor
• Try a sprinkle of parmesan for a flavor boost

Many pizza sub recipes call for a cheese blend. The mix of different cheeses adds depth to the flavor profile. A common combo includes mozzarella for melt, provolone for flavor, and a touch of parmesan for sharpness.

Classic Pizza Sub Fillings

The beauty of pizza subs comes from their adaptability. You can add almost any pizza topping you love! Some classic fillings include:

• Meats: Pepperoni, Italian sausage, ham, bacon
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, olives
• Herbs: Basil, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes

For best results, cook raw meats like sausage before adding them to your sub. This step ensures food safety and better flavor. For vegetables, a quick sauté helps remove excess moisture and brings out their natural sweetness. Check out our authentic Italian sandwich techniques for more tips on working with these ingredients.

Step-by-Step Pizza Sub Recipe

Preparation

Making a pizza sub takes just a few simple steps. Here’s how to prepare your work area:

• Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C)
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper
• Gather all ingredients and place them within reach
• Slice bread lengthwise but not all the way through

The prep work makes the assembly process much smoother. Having everything ready to go helps you build your sub quickly before the bread dries out.

Assembly Instructions

Follow these steps to build your perfect pizza sub sandwich:

1. Split your sub roll lengthwise, keeping one side connected
2. Spread pizza sauce on both inner sides of the bread
3. Add a layer of cheese directly on top of the sauce
4. Place your meats and vegetables on the bottom half
5. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and more cheese
6. Close the sandwich or leave open-faced for broiling

The key to a great pizza sub recipe lies in the layering. Put cheese both under and over your toppings to create a “glue” that holds everything together when it melts.

Cooking Methods

You can cook your pizza sub using various methods:

• Oven baking: Wrap in foil and bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, then unwrap and broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the top
• Toaster oven: Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until cheese melts
• Panini press: Grill for 3-5 minutes until bread is crispy and cheese melts

For that authentic pizzeria taste, brush the outside of your bread with garlic butter before baking. This small step adds amazing flavor and helps the crust get golden brown.

The cooking time for pizza subs depends on your method and how melted you want your cheese. Keep an eye on your sub to make sure it doesn’t burn. The perfect pizza sub has golden-brown bread, bubbly cheese, and warm toppings.

5 Delicious Pizza Sub Variations

Once you master the basic pizza sub recipe, try these tasty variations to keep your meals exciting. Each option brings unique flavors while keeping the core pizza sub experience you love!

Classic Italian Pizza Sub

This version pays tribute to traditional Italian flavors with premium ingredients and bold tastes. The combination creates a gourmet pizza sub that will impress anyone!

• Use Italian bread or ciabatta rolls
• Spread with garlic-infused olive oil before adding sauce
• Add layers of salami, capicola, and mortadella
• Top with fresh mozzarella slices instead of shredded
• Finish with fresh basil leaves after baking

The key to this version lies in using quality Italian bread that can hold up to the hearty toppings. Let the sub rest for 2-3 minutes after baking so the flavors blend together before cutting.

pizza sub recipe

Vegetarian Pizza Sub

Plant-based eaters can enjoy pizza subs too! This veggie-packed version bursts with colors and flavors that even meat-lovers will enjoy.

• Load up with roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and olives
• Add sautéed mushrooms for meaty texture
• Use pesto sauce instead of or alongside regular pizza sauce
• Try smoked provolone for added depth
• Sprinkle with red pepper flakes for heat

For extra protein, add some plant-based pepperoni or Italian sausage. These meat alternatives provide satisfying texture without compromising the vegetarian status of your sub.

Breakfast Pizza Sub recipe

Start your day with a breakfast pizza sub recipe that combines morning favorites with pizza flavors. This hearty option makes a perfect weekend brunch item!

• Use scrambled eggs as your base layer
• Add breakfast meats like bacon, ham, or sausage
• Include hash browns or roasted potatoes for texture
• Mix pizza sauce with a touch of maple syrup
• Try cheddar cheese along with mozzarella

The combination of breakfast ingredients with pizza flavors creates an exciting morning meal. You can make these ahead and freeze them for busy weekday breakfasts. Just wrap in foil and reheat in the oven for 15-20 minutes.

Subway-Style Pizza Sub Melt

This popular sandwich chain inspired version brings fast-food flavor to your home kitchen. The pizza sub melt features a specific combination of ingredients that fans love.

• Use soft submarine rolls with less crust
• Apply a thin layer of marinara sauce
• Add pepperoni, salami, and ham in exact portions
• Top with a specific blend of provolone and mozzarella
• Toast until edges just begin to brown

What makes this version special is the toasting method. For that authentic taste, toast the bread first, then add toppings and toast again briefly. This creates the perfect texture combination of crisp bread and melty cheese.

Spicy Buffalo Chicken Pizza Sub

Heat lovers will enjoy this buffalo chicken pizza sub that brings wing flavors to sandwich form. The spicy kick pairs perfectly with cool ranch and melty cheese!

• Toss shredded chicken with buffalo sauce
• Mix blue cheese crumbles into the mozzarella
• Add thin celery slices for crunch
• Drizzle with ranch dressing after baking
• Sprinkle with green onions as garnish

Control the heat level by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce. For extra flavor, add a thin layer of ranch or blue cheese dressing to the bread before adding other toppings.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Subs Every Time

These pro tips will help you make restaurant-quality pizza subs right in your own kitchen. Small changes can make a big difference in taste and texture!

Avoiding Soggy Bread

• Toast bread lightly before adding sauce
• Create a cheese barrier between sauce and bread
• Drain wet toppings like tomatoes or pineapple
• Use thicker sauce instead of runny marinara
• Don’t add too much sauce – a thin layer works best

Another helpful tip: scoop out some of the bread’s soft center to create a “boat” for your toppings. This not only prevents sogginess but also makes room for more fillings!

Cheese Melting Techniques

Getting that perfect cheese melt makes all the difference in homemade pizza subs. Try these methods for gooey, stretchy cheese:

• Shred cheese yourself – pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that affect melt
• Let cheese come to room temperature before baking
• Use a mix of high-moisture and dry cheeses
• Cover with foil for the first part of baking to trap steam
• Finish with a brief broil for that bubbly top

For extra gooeyness, try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese to your cheese mix. This secret ingredient improves meltability and creates an even creamier texture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Pizza subs work great for meal prep if you follow these storage guidelines:

• Fully assemble but don’t bake subs for freezing
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil
• Label with date and contents
• Store in freezer up to 1 month
• Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Avoid microwaving when reheating as this makes the bread tough. Instead, wrap in foil and heat in a 300°F oven until warmed through.

Condiments and Sides for Pizza Subs

What condiments are good on Italian subs?

Italian sub condiments add extra flavor and moisture to pizza subs. Traditional options work best with these pizza-flavored sandwiches:

• Oil and vinegar: A drizzle of olive oil and red wine vinegar adds tang
• Italian dressing: Adds herbs and acidity in one step
• Hot pepper relish: Brings heat and sweet flavors
• Giardiniera: Pickled vegetables add crunch and zip
• Pesto: Basil, garlic, and pine nut sauce adds richness

Most pizza shops serve their subs with a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping. This simple addition turns your pizza sub recipe sandwich into an even more satisfying meal.

Perfect Side Dishes

Complete your pizza sub recipe meal with sides that complement the Italian flavors:

• Pasta salad: Cold pasta with Italian dressing and vegetables
• Potato chips: Plain or Italian herb flavored
• Side salad: Mixed greens with Italian dressing
• Pickle spears: The acidity cuts through rich cheese
• Marinated olives: Adds Mediterranean flair

For a complete pizza shop experience at home, serve your subs with garlic knots or breadsticks. The extra carbs might seem like overkill, but this combo makes for a truly authentic meal!

pizza sub recipe

Health Considerations and Dietary Adaptations

Love pizza subs but want healthier options? You can adapt pizza sub recipes to fit various dietary needs:

Lower-Calorie Alternatives

• Use thin whole grain rolls instead of white submarine bread
• Choose part-skim mozzarella to cut fat
• Load up on vegetables and limit high-fat meats
• Try turkey pepperoni instead of regular
• Use less cheese but choose stronger flavored varieties

A standard pizza sub contains about 500-700 calories. Making these simple swaps can bring that number down to 350-450 calories while keeping the flavors you love.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

Those with food sensitivities can still enjoy homemade pizza subs with these substitutions:

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free submarine rolls or baguettes
• Dairy-free: Try plant-based mozzarella alternatives
• Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and meat substitutes
• Low-carb: Make a “boat” with zucchini or eggplant instead of bread
• Keto: Use fathead dough to make low-carb rolls

Always check sauce ingredients for hidden gluten or dairy. Many commercial pizza sauces contain cheese or wheat-based thickeners that might not work for your dietary needs.

Increasing Nutritional Value

Add these nutritious ingredients to boost the health value of your pizza sub sandwich:

• Spinach or arugula for vitamins A and K
• Bell peppers for vitamin C
• Fresh tomato slices for lycopene
• Olives for healthy fats
• Fresh herbs like basil for antioxidants

You can also make your sauce more nutritious by adding pureed vegetables like carrots or spinach. The pizza flavor masks these healthy additions while you get extra nutrients with every bite.

Tools and Equipment Recommendations

You don’t need fancy equipment to make great pizza subs at home. These basic tools help create perfect results:

• Baking sheet: A sturdy sheet helps subs cook evenly
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy
• Cheese grater: For fresh-shredded cheese that melts better
• Sharp knife: Makes clean cuts through bread and toppings
• Kitchen thermometer: Helps check if meat toppings reach safe temperatures

For next-level pizza subs, consider a panini press or sandwich toaster. These tools create perfectly crispy bread while melting the cheese at the same time.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Make your homemade pizza subs look as good as they taste with these simple presentation tips:

• Slice subs diagonally to show off layers of fillings
• Serve on wooden cutting boards for rustic appeal
• Sprinkle fresh herbs on top just before serving
• Place small bowls of extra sauce and toppings nearby
• Wrap in checkered deli paper for an authentic feel

For parties, cut subs into 2-inch sections and arrange them on a platter. This creates perfect finger food that guests can grab easily. Add toothpicks to hold each mini sandwich together.

Seasonal Pizza Sub Ideas for Year-Round Enjoyment

Your pizza sub recipe experience can change with the seasons! Try these seasonal ideas to match your subs with fresh, timely ingredients throughout the year.

Spring Pizza Subs

Spring brings fresh greens and herbs that add brightness to your homemade pizza subs. Try these spring-inspired combinations:

• Asparagus and Prosciutto: Thin-sliced prosciutto with roasted asparagus tips and ricotta cheese
• Spring Pea and Mint: Mashed sweet peas with fresh mint, light mozzarella, and a touch of lemon zest
• Artichoke and Spinach: Fresh spinach with marinated artichoke hearts and creamy fontina cheese
• Strawberry Balsamic: Sliced strawberries with balsamic glaze, basil, and white cheese blend
• Fresh Herb Medley: A mix of dill, parsley, chives, and basil with light cheese and olive oil

Spring pizza subs work best with lighter sauces. Try olive oil with herbs instead of heavy tomato sauce to let the fresh flavors shine through.

Summer Pizza Subs

Summer gardens overflow with fresh produce perfect for pizza sandwich toppings. These combinations capture summer flavors:

• Caprese Style: Fresh tomato slices, torn basil leaves, and buffalo mozzarella with balsamic drizzle
• Grilled Vegetable: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant from the grill with smoky provolone
• BBQ Chicken: Grilled chicken chunks with BBQ sauce, red onion, and sharp cheddar
• Fresh Corn and Bacon: Sweet corn kernels with crispy bacon bits and pepper jack cheese
• Peach and Prosciutto: Sweet peach slices with salty prosciutto and creamy goat cheese

Summer pizza subs taste great cold or hot. Make them ahead for picnics or beach trips – they hold up well in coolers and taste even better after flavors meld together.

Fall Pizza Sub Recipe Ideas

Autumn brings earthy, hearty ingredients perfect for a cozy pizza sub recipe. These fall combinations bring comforting, seasonal vibes:

• Apple and Cheddar: Thin apple slices with sharp cheddar and cinnamon
• Roasted Squash: Butternut squash cubes with sage and fontina cheese
• Mushroom Medley: A mix of wild mushrooms with thyme and gruyère cheese
• Fig and Blue Cheese: Fig jam with blue cheese crumbles and prosciutto
• Sweet Potato: Roasted sweet potato slices with caramelized onions and gouda

Each fall pizza sub recipe pairs wonderfully with hearty soups. Serve half a sub with tomato or butternut squash soup for a complete autumn meal that warms you up.

Winter Pizza Sub Recipe Ideas

Winter calls for rich, filling pizza sub recipe options with bold flavors. These combinations bring warmth to cold days:

• Meatball: Sliced meatballs with extra marinara and parmesan cheese
• Potato and Rosemary: Thin potato slices with fresh rosemary and fontina
• Sausage and Broccoli Rabe: Italian sausage with slightly bitter greens and provolone
• Ham and Swiss: Thick-cut ham with Swiss cheese and honey mustard sauce
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts with bacon bits and smoky gouda

Each winter pizza sub recipe tastes best when served piping hot. The contrast between the cold weather and the warm, cheesy sandwich makes these extra satisfying during chilly months.

Kid-Friendly Pizza Subs

Get children involved in making pizza subs with these fun ideas that appeal to young eaters while still tasting great:

Fun Shapes and Presentations

• Cut bread into smaller portions for right-sized kid hands
• Use cookie cutters to shape cheese slices into stars or hearts
• Arrange toppings into smiley faces or patterns
• Make “pizza sub sliders” using dinner rolls instead of full subs
• Create a “build your own” bar where kids pick their toppings

Mini pizza subs work perfectly for lunch boxes. Make them ahead and wrap individually for quick morning prep during busy school days.

Kid-Approved Flavor Combinations

These pizza sub recipes appeal to children while sneaking in good nutrition:

• Mac and Cheese: Combine two favorites with macaroni and cheese as a pizza sub topping
• PB&J Pizza Sub: Use peanut butter instead of sauce, add sliced strawberries and a light sprinkle of mozzarella
• Hidden Veggie: Mix finely chopped vegetables into the sauce where they blend in
• Chicken Finger: Use chicken strips with marinara and cheese for a protein-packed option
• Pizza Dog: Use hot dogs as the protein with pizza toppings for a fun hybrid

Let kids help make their own subs. They feel more excited to eat food they helped create, even if that means adding vegetables they might otherwise avoid.

Pizza Sub recipe Party Ideas

Host a memorable pizza sub recipe party where guests create their own custom sandwiches. This interactive meal works great for casual gatherings:

Setting Up Your Pizza Sub recipe Bar

• Pre-slice all breads and pre-cook any raw meats
• Place ingredients in separate bowls with serving utensils
• Arrange toppings in logical order from sauce to final herbs
• Label any special options like dairy-free cheese or spicy items
• Provide instruction cards with suggested combinations

For large parties, set up multiple toaster ovens or prepare sheet pans in advance. This helps avoid bottlenecks when everyone wants to cook their pizza subs at once.

pizza sub recipe

Pizza Sub recipe Competition Ideas

Turn your party into a friendly contest with these pizza sub recipe competition categories:

• Most creative combination
• Best presentation
• Most colorful sub
• Best use of unusual ingredient
• Most authentic Italian flavors

Take photos of each creation before eating. This adds fun to the party and gives everyone a chance to admire the different pizza subs before they disappear!

Regional Pizza Sub recipe Variations

Different parts of the country put their own spin on pizza subs. Try these regional styles to taste America’s diverse sandwich culture:

East Coast Style

• New York: Thin sauce, lots of mozzarella, and toppings chopped very small
• Boston: Greek-influenced with feta cheese and olive oil
• Philadelphia: Cheesesteak-pizza hybrid with sliced beef and Cheez Whiz
• New Jersey: Taylor ham/pork roll with pizza toppings
• Maryland: Crab meat mixed into the cheese blend

East Coast pizza subs typically use softer bread with a less crusty exterior. The focus stays on quality ingredients inside rather than artisan bread.

Midwest Favorites

• Chicago: Deep-dish inspired with thick sauce and chunky vegetables
• Detroit: Square bread with sauce on top of the cheese
• St. Louis: Provel cheese blend instead of mozzarella
• Cincinnati: Chili-cheese pizza sub recipe with cinnamon-spiced meat sauce
• Wisconsin: Extra cheese blends with at least 3-4 varieties

Midwest pizza sub recipe sandwiches tend to include more cheese and heartier portions. These filling versions often come cut in half because one whole sandwich serves two people!

West Coast Innovations

• California: Avocado and fresh produce with light cheese
• Pacific Northwest: Salmon and cream cheese with capers
• Southwest: Green chiles and pepper jack cheese
• Hawaii: Ham and pineapple with sweet teriyaki glaze
• Southern California: Mexican-Italian fusion with chorizo and cotija cheese

West Coast pizza subs often feature health-conscious ingredients and global fusion flavors. Look for whole grain bread options and creative vegetable combinations not found in traditional recipes.

Final Pizza Sub Recipe Success Tips

Make your pizza sub recipe turn out perfectly every time with these final pro tips:

• Let hot subs rest 2–3 minutes before cutting to keep fillings in place
• Wrap subs in foil if eating on the go to hold everything together
• Keep a pizza cutter handy – it cuts subs more cleanly than a knife
• Make double batches of cooked toppings and freeze for next time
• Try pizza sub recipe fillings in other forms like calzones or stuffed bread

The best results from a pizza sub recipe come from practice and personal taste. Don’t worry about following strict rules – create combinations that make you happy and match your flavor preferences.

Now you have all the knowledge and inspiration to create an amazing pizza sub recipe any time the craving strikes. Happy sandwich making!

FAQs About Pizza Subs

Conclusion

The pizza sub brings together two beloved foods into one crave-worthy meal. With the tips and recipes in this guide, you can make restaurant-quality subs right at home. The best part? You control the ingredients, making them healthier, tastier, and exactly how you like them.

Whether you stick with classic toppings or try bold new combinations, the basic technique stays the same. Just remember these key points:

• Toast the bread first to prevent sogginess
• Use cheese as “glue” both under and over toppings
• Don’t overload with sauce
• Cook until cheese bubbles but bread doesn’t burn
• Let rest briefly before cutting for best results

Now you have all the knowledge you need to create perfect pizza subs every time. Start with the basic recipe, then let your creativity take over with different flavor combinations. Happy cooking!

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