Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe
If you’re craving a quick, satisfying meal packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, the Chopped Italian Sandwich is an absolute must-try. This deli-inspired sub takes all your favorite parts of a classic Italian sandwich—salty meats, creamy cheese, tangy pickled veggies, and fresh crisp lettuce—then mixes everything together for a perfect bite every single time! It’s colorful, versatile, and comes together in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re making lunch for one or feeding a hungry crowd, this Chopped Italian Sandwich is sure to earn a spot in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient brings its own unique character to the mix. Fresh, bold, and layered flavors shine thanks to these classic sandwich staples—paying close attention to each one makes all the difference!
- Iceberg lettuce (1/2 head, finely chopped): Delivers a satisfying crunch and keeps every bite feeling fresh.
- Deli ham (4 slices): Adds a mild, savory base flavor and some extra protein.
- Genoa salami (4 slices): Brings a rich, peppery punch that’s essential to any true Italian-inspired sub.
- Pepperoni (4 slices): For a hint of spice and a pop of color.
- Provolone cheese (4 slices): Creamy, gently sharp, and perfectly melty in every chopped bite.
- Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): Zesty, aromatic, and a little sweet after chopping.
- Banana peppers (1/4 cup, chopped): These tangy rings add the signature Italian sandwich “zing.”
- Black olives (2 tbsp, sliced): A briny touch that balances out the richness of the meats and cheese.
- Mayonnaise (2 tbsp): Makes the dressing creamy and helps everything stick together.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Lends a fruity, satisfying depth to the sandwich dressing.
- Red wine vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds bright acidity to perk up the flavors.
- Dried oregano (1/2 tsp): For that classic Italian herby flavor in every bite.
- Garlic powder (1/4 tsp): An easy way to build in a touch of garlicky goodness.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Finish and balance all the flavors to your liking.
- Hoagie rolls or sub sandwich buns (2): Soft and sturdy; these keep all your tasty chopped filling together.
How to Make Chopped Italian Sandwich
Step 1: Chop the Meats and Cheese
Start by creating a stack on your largest cutting board: layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese in neat piles. Grab your sharpest knife and chop everything into small, bite-sized pieces. This step is key for the signature texture of the Chopped Italian Sandwich—every single forkful (or mouthful) will get a perfect combo of meat and cheese!
Step 2: Add the Veggies
Transfer your freshly chopped meats and cheese to a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped iceberg lettuce, diced red onion, sliced banana peppers, and black olives. Toss them together until the colors are bright and everything is evenly combined—this is where the freshness and crunch come in.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, garlic powder, a pinch of salt, and some cracked black pepper. The mixture should become creamy and lightly tangy—the perfect binder for the chopped ingredients. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if you’d like.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Pour the dressing over your bowl of chopped sandwich fillings. Use a big spoon or two spatulas to toss until every bite is lusciously coated and shining. The dressing should cling to the meats, cheese, and veggies without making things soggy—it’s all about balance!
Step 5: Load Up the Rolls
Slice the hoagie rolls or sandwich buns lengthwise, but don’t cut them all the way through—this helps cradle your filling beautifully. Spoon the Chopped Italian Sandwich mixture into each roll, pressing down gently so it all holds together. Serve immediately, and get ready for a flavor-packed crunch!
How to Serve Chopped Italian Sandwich
Garnishes
A final dusting of dried oregano, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of extra olive oil makes your Chopped Italian Sandwich feel just like those deli classics. For a spicy touch, try a few shakes of hot sauce or a spoonful of giardiniera right on top.
Side Dishes
Round out your plate with crisp kettle chips, a handful of cherry tomatoes, or a simple green salad. For an Italian-American feast, pair your Chopped Italian Sandwich with pickled veggies or pasta salad for extra freshness and variety.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the chopped filling high on mini buns for party sliders or stuff it into lettuce cups for a no-carb twist. Try serving the mixture as a “Chopped Italian Sandwich” salad on a big platter with crunchy garlic toasts, letting everyone build their own ideal bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra Chopped Italian Sandwich filling, simply store it (without the bread) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It stays fresh and crisp, just give it a quick toss before using again.
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for this recipe, as the crisp lettuce and delicate veggies lose their appealing texture once thawed. For best results, enjoy your Chopped Italian Sandwich fresh or within a day or two of making it.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat—a Chopped Italian Sandwich is meant to be enjoyed cold and crunchy! If you’d like, you can warm the bun quickly in the oven for a few minutes to add a toasted element, but the filling is best straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use different meats or cheeses?
Absolutely! The Chopped Italian Sandwich is endlessly customizable—swap in mortadella, turkey, or soppressata, or try mozzarella or Swiss for a fun twist. Just keep the basic ratios for the perfect chopped bite.
Is there a way to make this sandwich vegetarian?
Yes! Load up on Italian cheeses like provolone and mozzarella, add extra veggies (think roasted red peppers or artichoke hearts), and skip the meats. The tangy dressing and chopped style are just as delicious meat-free.
How can I make it a little healthier?
Go lighter on the mayo or use a Greek yogurt-based dressing, pick whole wheat rolls, and add in extra veggies. The Chopped Italian Sandwich is easy to tweak to fit your taste or dietary needs.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely! You can chop and combine all the meats, cheese, and veggies a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Add the dressing just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.
What type Main Course
Hoagie rolls and sub buns are the classic choice, but ciabatta, focaccia, or even a crusty baguette work beautifully. Just choose a roll that’s sturdy enough to hold the glorious chopped filling without falling apart.
Final Thoughts
Once you try a Chopped Italian Sandwich, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it’s just that craveable! There’s nothing quite like getting all those bold, balanced flavors and textures in every single bite. Give it a try for your next lunch or picnic, and see how quickly it becomes your new sandwich obsession.
Print
Chopped Italian Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make chopped Italian sandwich recipe that is perfect for a quick meal or a picnic. Packed with flavorful deli meats, cheese, and a zesty dressing, this sandwich is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1/2 head iceberg lettuce (finely chopped)
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices Genoa salami
- 4 slices pepperoni
- 4 slices provolone cheese
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
- 1/4 cup banana peppers (chopped)
- 2 tbsp black olives (sliced)
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 hoagie rolls or sub sandwich buns
Instructions
- Prep Ingredients: Chop the ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone into bite-sized pieces. Combine with lettuce, red onion, banana peppers, and olives in a large bowl.
- Make Dressing: Whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Combine: Pour dressing over chopped ingredients and toss to coat well.
- Assemble: Fill hoagie rolls with the mixture, pressing gently. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Customize with your favorite Italian meats or cheeses like mortadella, soppressata, or mozzarella.
- Add a drizzle of hot sauce or giardiniera for a spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1250mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
