Italian Sub Pizza Recipe

If you love the bold, zesty flavors of a classic deli sandwich and the comforting, cheesy goodness of a pizza, then you are in for a real treat with this Italian Sub Pizza. This dish brilliantly combines the best of both worlds, layering savory meats, fresh vegetables, and Italian seasonings over a crispy pepperoni pizza crust. The Italian Sub Pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors and textures that come together in a way that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed pizza any other way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Italian Sub Pizza, you only need a handful of simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. These components bring color, freshness, and that irresistible Italian deli vibe right to your kitchen.

• 12″ HRI Classic Pepperoni Pizza: A flavorful, crispy base loaded with classic pepperoni that acts as the perfect canvas for your toppings.
• 1 tomato, sliced: Adds juicy, fresh brightness that balances the richness of the meats and cheese.
• 5 slices chipped ham: Brings a subtle smokiness and tender meatiness that complements the spicy salami.
• 5 slices soppressata salami: Delivers a bold, spicy punch that intensifies the sandwich feel.
• ⅓ cup red onion, sliced: Offers a sharp, crisp bite with a hint of sweetness to perk up every mouthful.
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded: Lends a refreshing crunch that lightens the overall dish.
• 2 tbsp oil and vinegar, mixed: A classic Italian dressing that ties all the flavors together with tang and richness.
• 1 tsp oregano: Adds aromatic earthiness that’s signature to Italian cuisine.
• Basil for garnish: Fresh basil leaves provide a fragrant, herbaceous finish to the pizza.

How to Make Italian Sub Pizza

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pizza Base

Start by preheating your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat ensures that your pizza crust becomes beautifully golden and crisp. Remove any packaging from your classic pepperoni pizza, and place it on a baking tray or directly on the oven rack for that perfect crust finish.

Step 2: Layer the Italian Sub Toppings

Now comes the exciting part—building that Italian Sub Pizza flavor. Start by layering slices of fresh tomato evenly across the pizza. Next, add your chipped ham and soppressata salami slices, distributing them so every bite hits you with that rich, savory deli meat goodness. Sprinkle the sliced red onions on top for a touch of sharpness and crunch.

Step 3: Bake the Pizza

Place your topped pizza directly onto the oven rack and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the crust should turn a gorgeous golden brown and everything on top will meld beautifully. This step is where the magic happens, intensifying flavors while crisping the base.

Step 4: Add Fresh Greens and Seasoning

Once out of the oven, it’s time to freshen things up. Scatter shredded lettuce evenly over the hot pizza—this adds a bright, crisp counterpoint to the rich meats. Drizzle your mixed oil and vinegar over the top, sprinkle with oregano, and finish with fresh basil leaves for that unmistakable Italian flair.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Cut your Italian Sub Pizza into generous squares. These pieces are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a hearty personal meal. The combination of hot, melty cheese and meats with fresh, cool lettuce and bright toppings makes each bite unforgettable.

How to Serve Italian Sub Pizza

Garnishes

Garnishes are what make your Italian Sub Pizza feel truly special. Besides the fresh basil, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to enhance the flavors and add a silky finish. A few shreds of Parmesan or Romano cheese can also elevate the pizza’s savory notes.

Side Dishes

This pizza pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement without overshadowing. A crisp Caesar salad or a bowl of marinated olives can bring additional textures and tastes to your meal. For something warm, a light minestrone or tomato basil soup echoes the pizza’s Italian roots beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving at a party or casual gathering, try cutting the Italian Sub Pizza into bite-sized squares and arranging them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Layer the pizza slices with small bowls of extra dressing, freshly grated cheese, and sliced peppers for DIY customization. It turns an already crowd-pleasing dish into a fun, interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Sub Pizza can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the fresh greens from getting soggy, store them separately and add fresh lettuce just before reheating or serving again.

Freezing

While freshly made is best, you can freeze the pizza without the fresh toppings. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn, then freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh toppings.

Reheating

The best way to reheat your Italian Sub Pizza is in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place it on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack for 8 to 10 minutes, just enough to warm through and restore crispness without wilting the fresh toppings. Add fresh lettuce and drizzle with oil and vinegar after reheating for that perfect finish.

FAQs

Can I make Italian Sub Pizza with other meats?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out or add meats like turkey, roast beef, or capicola for different flavor combinations. The key is to choose cured or deli-style meats that offer that classic Italian sub taste.

Is it necessary to add the lettuce before serving?

Yes, adding shredded lettuce after baking gives the pizza that fresh crunch and green color that balance the warm, savory toppings. If you add it before baking, the lettuce wilts and loses its signature texture.

Can I prepare this pizza for a crowd?

Definitely! This pizza is easy to scale up. Consider baking multiple pizzas or using larger crusts. It’s great for gatherings because everyone loves the familiar flavors of an Italian sub combined with pizza’s cheesy goodness.

What if I don’t have red onion?

No worries. You can substitute with thinly sliced sweet onions, shallots, or even green onions for a milder bite, but red onion really provides that classic sharp contrast.

How can I make the pizza gluten-free?

Simply start with a gluten-free pizza crust as your base. All the toppings and seasonings remain the same, so you won’t lose any of the delicious flavors of the Italian Sub Pizza.

Final Thoughts

This Italian Sub Pizza is a surefire way to brighten up your mealtime with familiar and beloved flavors presented in a fun, pizza form. It’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends. Once you try it, the Italian Sub Pizza will surely become one of your go-to comfort foods whenever you crave something hearty, fresh, and totally satisfying.

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