Description

Welcome to the world of delicious indulgence with our Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich! This sandwich is a true culinary masterpiece, bursting with vibrant flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Originating from New Orleans, the Muffaletta has Italian roots and is a celebration of the hearty goodness of Italian meats, cheeses, and a zesty olive salad, all nestled between two layers of crusty bread. The combination of savory ingredients makes this sandwich not only a satisfying meal but also an impressive centerpiece for gatherings, picnics, or game day parties.

What makes the Giant Muffaletta stand out is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can customize it according to your preferences by adding or substituting ingredients, making it a dish that caters to everyone's taste. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, which means less stress when hosting a get-together. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring that you create a mouthwatering sandwich that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• For the bread:
• 1 round loaf of crusty Italian bread (about 10-12 inches in diameter)
• 1 round loaf of whole wheat or multigrain bread (optional for variation)
• For the olive salad:
• 1 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
• 1/2 cup giardiniera, drained and chopped
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the filling:
• 1/2 pound salami, thinly sliced
• 1/2 pound ham, thinly sliced
• 1/2 pound mortadella, thinly sliced
• 1/2 pound provolone cheese, thinly sliced
• 1/2 pound mozzarella cheese, sliced (optional)
• 1/4 cup spicy mustard or Dijon mustard (optional for extra flavor)

Preparation Method

Start by preparing the olive salad, which is the heart and soul of the Muffaletta. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped green and black olives, giardiniera, and roasted red peppers. These ingredients contribute to the sandwich's vibrant color and flavor profile. Next, drizzle in the extra-virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, which will add a tangy richness to the mix. Sprinkle in the chopped oregano, parsley, and minced garlic for an aromatic punch. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined, then set aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the rest of the sandwich.

Now, take your round loaf of crusty Italian bread and slice it horizontally in half. If you’re using a second loaf for a variation, do the same with that one as well. You want to create a top and bottom for your sandwich that will hold all those delicious fillings. Hollow out the inside of the bread slightly, creating a little space for the fillings to sit without overflowing. This also helps keep the bread from getting soggy when you add the olive salad.

Once the bread is ready, spread a generous layer of spicy mustard or Dijon mustard on the bottom half of the loaf. This adds a delicious kick that complements the savory meats and cheeses. Begin layering the sliced meats next. Start with the salami, followed by the ham, and then the mortadella. Each layer adds its own unique flavor and texture, creating a delightful experience with every bite.

After the meats are layered, it’s time to add the cheeses. Lay down the slices of provolone cheese, followed by the mozzarella for an extra creamy touch. If you love cheese, feel free to double up on the layers for a more indulgent sandwich!

Now, it’s time to add the star of the show: the olive salad. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared olive salad over the cheese layer, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. The vibrant colors and rich flavors of the olive salad will elevate the sandwich, making it not only a feast for the palate but also a feast for the eyes.

Once all the layers are in place, carefully place the top half of the bread onto the sandwich, pressing down gently to help the ingredients meld together. To keep everything in place, wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to compress the sandwich and allows the flavors to blend beautifully. For best results, let the sandwich chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight if you have the time. This resting period is crucial as it enhances the flavors and makes slicing much easier.

After the sandwich has chilled, it’s time to serve! Unwrap the sandwich and place it on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, cut it into wedges or halves, depending on how you’d like to serve it. Each slice should showcase the beautiful layers of meat, cheese, and olive salad, making it an irresistible treat for your guests.

Tips and Conclusion

For a delightful side dish to accompany your Giant Muffaletta, consider a simple arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. The peppery arugula will provide a perfect counterbalance to the richness of the sandwich. If you’re looking to make the sandwich even more unique, try adding some slices of marinated artichokes or pepperoncini to the olive salad for an extra kick. This recipe is also highly adaptable; you can swap out the meats and cheeses based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect combination!




As you take the first bite of your Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich, you’ll understand why this dish has become a beloved classic. The combination of flavors, from the savory meats to the zesty olive salad, creates a satisfying experience that will leave you craving more. Preparing this sandwich is not just about cooking; it’s about bringing people together and sharing a delicious meal filled with love and creativity.

We hope you enjoyed this journey through the vibrant flavors of the Muffaletta sandwich. If you’re inspired to try your hand at more delightful recipes, we invite you to explore our collection of Italian dishes, sandwiches, and appetizer ideas. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and let your friends in on the joy of making this incredible sandwich. Happy cooking and happy eating!