Chopped Italian Sandwich
My friend made this once, and now I crave it constantly—loaded with flavor and impossible to resist! This chopped Italian sandwich has gone viral for a reason. It’s easy, crunchy, cheesy, and packed with Italian deli flavors in every bite. Perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a quick dinner that doesn’t disappoint.
Ingredients
- 4 slices deli ham
- 4 slices salami
- 4 slices pepperoni
- ¼ cup shredded lettuce
- 2 tablespoons diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons banana peppers, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 hoagie roll or sub bun, sliced open
- 2 slices provolone cheese
Instructions
- Chop It All Up: Place the ham, salami, pepperoni, shredded lettuce, red onion, banana peppers, and Italian dressing on a large cutting board. Use a chef’s knife to chop everything together until well mixed and finely diced.
- Prep the Bread: Open the hoagie roll and place the provolone cheese slices inside.
- Fill the Roll: Spoon the chopped sandwich mixture into the roll, pressing slightly so it holds together well.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately for maximum crunch and freshness. Optional: toast the hoagie roll with cheese first for a warm, melty version.
Why It Works
This sandwich works because the ingredients are all chopped together, allowing every bite to be consistent and full of flavor. The Italian dressing acts like a sandwich “binder” and boosts moisture and tang. Banana peppers bring a zesty twist that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese.
Tips and Variations
- Use different meats: Try capicola, mortadella, or roast beef for a twist.
- Add a creamy spread: A swipe of mayo or garlic aioli on the bread can add richness.
- Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes, hot giardiniera, or spicy mustard.
- Meal prep friendly: Chop everything except the lettuce ahead and keep refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Storage
While best eaten fresh, you can wrap your sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 1 day. If you’re packing it for lunch, keep the chopped filling separate from the bread until ready to eat to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition (approx. per sandwich)
Calories: 480 | Protein: 25g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Fat: 28g | Sodium: High (due to deli meats)
Final Bite
The chopped Italian sandwich is more than a trend—it’s a legit flavor bomb that deserves a spot in your meal rotation. It’s fast, flexible, and super satisfying. Once you try it, you’ll understand why the internet can’t stop talking about it. Make it your own and let the layers of meat, cheese, crunch, and zing transform your sandwich game.