These Italian Sub Squares are ideal for a casual family dinner or a big game night. They are perfect for feeding a crowd, as they can be easily sliced into squares and served hot. The combination of ham, salami, provolone, pepperoni, and roasted peppers evokes that classic Italian flavor that we all adore. What’s more, the flaky crescent roll crust holds everything together nicely, making it easy to handle and enjoy without the mess.
This recipe isn’t just simple to prepare but also invites you to get creative. You can customize the fillings to your liking or make them vegetarian-friendly! Adding some extra spices or using different sauces can really elevate the flavor profile even further. Trust me, once you take a bite of these savory squares, you’ll find it hard to resist going for seconds.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit, or 190 degrees Celsius. This is an important step, as ensuring your oven is at the right temperature helps achieve the perfectly golden and flaky crust.
Next, unroll one can of crescent rolls and gently press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Be sure to seal any seams and press the dough slightly up the sides of the dish to contain all of that delicious filling.
Now, it's time to layer on the goodness. Take half of the sliced ham, salami, and provolone cheese, and distribute it evenly atop the crescent dough.
Add the sliced pepperoni, banana pepper rings, and roasted red peppers over the layers of meat and cheese for a burst of flavor that transports your taste buds straight to Italy.
Evenly sprinkle the Italian seasoning across the layers. This seasoning will bring a fantastic aroma and taste to the squares, making each bite memorable.
Now, add the remaining half of the ham, salami, and provolone cheese on top of the pepper mix. This ensures each square boasts a rich filling, full of flavor in every bite.
Unroll the second can of crescent rolls and lay it over the layers you've just created. Press the edges together to seal and prevent any filling from leaking out while it bakes.
To elevate the top crust, brush it with olive oil and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over it. This not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful golden crust when baked.
Finally, bake your dish in the preheated oven for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is all bubbly. The enticing aroma that fills your kitchen at this point will undoubtedly have mouths watering in anticipation.
Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before cutting into squares for serving. These squares can be enjoyed warm as is, or you can offer fresh lettuce and tomato slices on the side for added freshness and crunch.
For an added twist, consider introducing various ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to include sliced olives, artichoke hearts, or even a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Experimenting with different types of cheeses or adding a spread like pesto or mustard can also lend a unique touch to your Italian Sub Squares.
Moreover, if you have extra time, allow the assembled dish to sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps meld the flavors together even more, resulting in a compelling dish that will impress your guests.
Above all, do not be afraid to get creative. Cooking is as much about enjoyment as it is about the end product.
These Italian Sub Squares are indeed a nostalgic favorite—one that transports you back to family gatherings filled with laughter, love, and, of course, incredible food. Whether you are making them for a casual dinner with loved ones or preparing them for a festive celebration, they are bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and embark on a culinary adventure that will delight your taste buds and reignite fond memories from your childhood. Ready to give it a try? I promise you won’t regret it!
Now, every time I make these savory squares, I’m reminded of the joy they brought me as a child—a delight I can now share with my own family and friends. The tradition continues, and so does the love for this delectable dish.