When the dinner party was just a couple of hours away, I found myself rifling through my pantry, grappling with a last-minute decision on what to serve. That’s when inspiration struck! Using the magic of golden crescent roll dough, I crafted these Savory Italian Sub Squares that meld flavors and textures in a way that will leave your guests raving. The minute you pull these golden delights from the oven and catch a whiff of the melted cheese mingling with the rich cured meats, you know you’re in for something special.
What’s even better? They’re incredibly versatile—mix and match fillings to suit your taste or the preferences of your guests. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a bustling gathering, these Italian Sub Squares come together in a snap and are guaranteed to impress. Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why are Italian Sub Squares a must-try?
Crowd-Pleasers: These delightful squares are perfect for parties, ensuring no one leaves hungry.
Customization: Mix and match your favorite sandwich fillings to create a personal twist every time!
Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour, making them a great choice for last-minute get-togethers.
Comforting Flavor: Experience bold, savory layers of cheese and meats with every bite.
Versatile Pairing: Serve them warm as an appetizer or alongside a light salad for a full meal.
Impress your guests and make gatherings memorable with these delicious bites!
Italian Sub Squares Ingredients
• Gather everything you need to create these mouthwatering Italian Sub Squares!
For the Dough
- Cooking Spray or Vegetable Oil – Essential for greasing your baking pan, preventing those beautiful squares from sticking.
- Crescent Roll Dough (2 tubes, 8-oz. each) – This flaky and tender base is the star of your appetizer!
For the Filling
- Shredded Asiago (1 cup, about 4 oz.) – Adds a creamy, nutty flavor; feel free to swap with Parmesan or Pecorino for a different twist.
- Thinly Sliced Mortadella or Ham (8 oz.) – Infuses savory goodness; try other cured meats for variety!
- Sliced Provolone (4 oz.) – Brings a creamy touch; you can use mozzarella or Swiss for a milder profile.
- Thinly Sliced Salami (4 oz.) – Introduces a delightful spice; simply use alternate cold cuts if preferred.
- Giardiniera Mix or Muffuletta Mix (1 ½ cups, drained and patted dry) – Provides tangy, briny notes; any chopped pickled vegetables will do!
For the Topping
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (1 Tbsp.) – Boosts flavor and helps toppings stick beautifully.
- White Sesame Seeds (2 tsp.) – Adds a charming crunch; poppy seeds work just as well!
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp.) – Infuses an herbaceous aroma, enhancing the overall experience of your Italian Sub Squares.
How to Make Italian Sub Squares
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Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the crescent roll packaging. This ensures a perfectly baked crust that’s golden and flaky.
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Grease the baking pan with cooking spray or vegetable oil. This step is vital to prevent the delicious squares from sticking and make serving a breeze.
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Roll Out the crescent roll dough, layering half of it evenly on the bottom of the greased pan. Press the seams together to create one solid layer.
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Layer half of the shredded Asiago cheese, followed by the sliced meats: mortadella, provolone, and salami. Top this with the giardiniera mix, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
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Top with the remaining cheese, then fold the second tube of dough over the top, sealing the edges tightly. This ensures all the goodness stays inside during baking.
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Brush the top layer with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds and dried oregano. This will create an inviting golden crust and enhance the flavors.
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Bake until the squares are golden brown and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes. Let them cool for 15 minutes before slicing into squares to make serving easier.
Optional: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Italian Sub Squares Variations
Explore the delightful ways to tweak your Italian Sub Squares for a personalized touch that will excite your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular crescent roll dough for a gluten-free version to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- Vegetarian: Replace all meats with hearty vegetables like roasted red peppers, mushrooms, and spinach for a fresh, savory twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra layer of heat, perfect for spice lovers.
- Herbed Cheese: Use herbal-flavored cheeses such as dill havarti or basil goat cheese for a fresh, aromatic experience.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked turkey or smoked mozzarella to give your appetizer a deeper, richer flavor profile.
- Creamy Spinach Filling: Mix in a layer of cream cheese with fresh spinach to create a rich, decadent filling that adds creaminess to every bite.
- Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over the finished squares for a tangy, sweet contrast that elevates the dish beautifully.
- Breakfast Version: For a fun brunch option, substitute meats with scrambled eggs, spinach, and cheddar cheese for a hearty breakfast square.
Each of these variations encourages delicious creativity, ensuring there’s a favorite for everyone!
Make Ahead Options
These Italian Sub Squares are ideal for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights or gatherings! You can prep the filling by layering the sliced meats, cheese, and giardiniera mix up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. Additionally, you can roll out the crescent dough and place it in the greased baking pan without baking it ahead of time. When you’re ready to bake, simply layer on the prepared filling, fold over the remaining dough, and brush with olive oil before baking as directed. This way, your Italian Sub Squares will be just as delicious, ensuring delightful flavors with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Italian Sub Squares
Room Temperature: For best flavor, serve these squares warm. If left out, consumed within 2 hours to ensure freshness.
Fridge: Store leftover Italian Sub Squares in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and prevents odors from affecting the flavor.
Freezer: Freeze wrapped in plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to restore crispness and melty texture. Enjoy every bite!
What to Serve with Italian Sub Squares?
Imagine a cozy gathering where the savory aroma of baked delights fills the room, inviting everyone to the table.
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Crispy Garden Salad: This fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette adds a crunchy counterpoint to the rich flavors of the squares.
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Garlic Breadsticks: A favorite for many, their buttery, garlicky taste complements the hearty feel of the Italian Sub Squares.
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Chilled Antipasto Platter: Featuring olives, marinated veggies, and cured meats, this platter enhances the Italian theme of your meal beautifully.
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Balsamic Roasted Vegetables: Their sweet and tangy flavor brings a lovely balance to the robust, meaty squares, infusing the meal with extra warmth.
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Pasta Salad: Light and zesty, a pasta salad with cherry tomatoes and basil gives a refreshing touch to your meal.
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Classic Italian Lemonade: This chilled drink, with its sweet and tart profile, will cleanse your palate perfectly between bites.
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Tiramisu: End on a sweet note with this classic dessert; the coffee flavors will beautifully echo the savory notes of the main dish.
Expert Tips for Italian Sub Squares
- Customize Fillings: Experiment with various meats and cheeses based on your guests’ preferences for a truly personalized dish.
- Flaky Base: Ensure the crescent roll dough is fully sealed, preventing any spills of delicious filling while baking.
- Cooling Time: Allow the squares to cool for about 15 minutes post-baking. This makes them easier to cut and helps the cheese set.
- Layer Wisely: Don’t skimp on cheese or meat layers; ample filling creates that rich flavor experience everyone loves in Italian Sub Squares.
- Add Veggies: Consider adding roasted bell peppers or fresh spinach into the filling for added texture and nutrition.
Italian Sub Squares Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe and fresh ingredients for my Italian Sub Squares?
Absolutely! When selecting your meats, look for fresh deli slices that are vibrant in color and free from any dark spots or excessive dryness. For cheeses, aim for well-stored options in their packaging, ensuring they’re firm without any surface mold. Picking a bright giardiniera mix makes a difference—choose jars with a nice crunch and vibrant colors for the best flavor!
How should I store leftover Italian Sub Squares?
Very! Leftover Italian Sub Squares should be placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If properly sealed, they maintain their flavorful profiles, allowing you to enjoy them later. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to help keep them from sticking together!
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Can I freeze Italian Sub Squares? What’s the best way?
Absolutely! To freeze your Italian Sub Squares, first let them cool completely. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil to minimize freezer burn, and place them in a labeled freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, allowing them to restore their delightful crispness.
What should I do if my filling leaks during baking?
Don’t worry! If some filling spills out during baking, it’s usually due to the dough not being sealed well. To prevent this next time, ensure the edges of the crescent roll dough are pinched tightly, and layer the fillings evenly. Should it still happen, you can simply scoop any filling that escaped back into the squares once baked—trust me, they’ll still be delicious!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for guests?
Absolutely! Always check for allergies and dietary restrictions before preparing your Italian Sub Squares. Common allergens in this recipe include dairy and gluten from the crescent dough and cheese. You can make them gluten-free by using an appropriate dough alternative and replacing cheese with dairy-free options. Also, ensure the meat choices comply with different dietary preferences or restrictions, offering vegetarian fillings as a delicious alternative!
Delicious Italian Sub Squares: Customizable Flavor Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the crescent roll packaging.
- Grease the baking pan with cooking spray or vegetable oil.
- Roll out the crescent roll dough, layering half of it evenly on the bottom of the greased pan.
- Layer half of the shredded Asiago cheese, followed by the sliced meats: mortadella, provolone, and salami.
- Top this with the giardiniera mix.
- Top with the remaining cheese, then fold the second tube of dough over the top, sealing the edges tightly.
- Brush the top layer with extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds and dried oregano.
- Bake until the squares are golden brown and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.
- Let them cool for 15 minutes before slicing into squares.