Italian Sub Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Printable)

Melty provolone with salami and pepperoni, topped with tangy lettuce and grilled until golden brown.

# What You Need:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices Italian bread or sturdy white sandwich bread
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
03 - 4 slices provolone cheese

→ Meats

04 - 6 slices salami
05 - 6 slices pepperoni

→ Lettuce Topping

06 - 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
07 - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
08 - 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
09 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Optional Additions

11 - 2 tablespoons mild pepperoncini rings, drained
12 - 2 tablespoons thinly sliced red onion

# Steps:

01 - In a bowl, combine shredded lettuce, mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside.
02 - Lay out the bread slices and spread one side of each with softened butter.
03 - Place two slices, buttered side down, on a work surface. Top each with 2 slices provolone, 3 slices salami, and 3 slices pepperoni.
04 - Distribute pepperoncini rings and red onion slices over the meats and cheese if desired.
05 - Spread the prepared lettuce mixture evenly over the meats and cheese.
06 - Top each sandwich with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
07 - Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with spatula, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
08 - Remove from heat, slice in half diagonally, and serve immediately while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The lettuce topping adds a perfect crunch that cuts through all that rich cheese
  • Ready in under 20 minutes but tastes like something from a sandwich shop
02 -
  • Do not skip softening the butter first or it will tear your bread
  • Medium heat is key, high heat burns the bread before the cheese melts
03 -
  • Weigh down the sandwich with a heavy pan or press for extra crispy bread
  • Toast the lettuce topping briefly in a separate pan if you want it warm instead of cold
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