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An extreme close-up shot of the Italian Grinder Sandwich, highlighting the texture of the toasted bread, melted cheese, and fresh grinder salad.

Italian Grinder Sandwich (The Ultimate Recipe)

Craft the ultimate Italian Grinder Sandwich with this easy-to-follow recipe. Loaded with deli meats, melted provolone, and a viral creamy grinder salad, this sandwich is a flavor explosion perfect for lunch or dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 sandwiches
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian-American
Calories: 850
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano divided
  • 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste
  • 2 cups iceberg lettuce finely shredded
  • 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/3 cup banana pepper rings drained
  • 4 hoagie rolls or submarine rolls, about 6 inches long
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 slices provolone cheese
  • 1/2 lb deli ham thinly sliced
  • 1/4 lb Genoa salami thinly sliced
  • 1/4 lb pepperoni thinly sliced
  • 1 large tomato thinly sliced

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet
  • 1 Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Grinder Salad: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, 1/2 tsp of the dried oregano, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Add the shredded iceberg lettuce, thinly sliced red onion, and banana pepper rings to the dressing. Toss well to combine. Set aside.
  3. Prepare the Sandwiches: Preheat your oven's broiler on high. Slice the hoagie rolls lengthwise, leaving one side intact. Place them open-faced on a large baking sheet.
  4. Drizzle the cut sides of the bread with olive oil and sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 tsp of dried oregano.
  5. Layer the Ingredients: Place 2 slices of provolone cheese on each roll. Top with layers of ham, salami, and pepperoni.
  6. Toast: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, watching carefully, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
  7. Assemble and Serve: Remove the sandwiches from the oven. Layer the tomato slices over the melted meats. Pile a generous amount of the prepared grinder salad on top. Fold the sandwich closed, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Notes

Toast with care: The broiler is very hot! Keep a close eye on the sandwiches to ensure they don't burn.
Ingredient Quality: Using freshly sliced meats and cheese from your local deli will elevate the flavor significantly.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time, but for the best crunch, toss the salad together just before serving.