The humble sub sandwich – a staple of many a lunchbox and dinner plate. But why settle for just any old sub when you can elevate it to new heights with creative ingredients and bold flavors? Whether you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or something more adventurous, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouth-watering sub recipes.
From Italian meatballs to spicy buffalo chicken, and from veggie delights to pulled pork BBQ, there’s a sub on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab some bread, get creative in the kitchen, and get ready to sink your teeth into the ultimate sub sandwich experience!
Classic Italian Meatball Sub
A classic Italian sub filled with tender meatballs, melted mozzarella cheese, and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 Italian sub rolls
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15).
4. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the Italian sub rolls.
6. Assemble the subs by placing 2-3 meatballs on each roll, followed by marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Sub with Peppers and Onions
A classic sandwich gets a sub twist! Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, sautéed peppers, and caramelized onions come together in a flavorful and satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb thinly sliced beef (such as top round or ribeye)
• 4 hoagie rolls
• 2 large bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 8 oz provolone cheese, shredded
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the sliced peppers and onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Assemble the subs by slicing the grilled beef into thin strips. Place on each hoagie roll, followed by a spoonful of pepper and onion mixture, and top with shredded cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Sub
Elevate your sandwich game with this spicy buffalo chicken sub recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 4 crusty sub rolls
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, and butter until coated.
3. Place the chicken mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the sub rolls by placing them in the oven for 2-3 minutes or grilling lightly.
5. Assemble the subs by spreading the buffalo chicken onto the toasted rolls, followed by shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled blue cheese (if using).
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if desired) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veggie Delight Sub with Avocado Spread
This recipe brings together the creaminess of avocado spread, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the softness of a sub sandwich. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack!
Ingredients:
– 4 subs (whole wheat or white)
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: hummus, feta cheese, or other toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread avocado on each sub.
3. Arrange vegetables on top of the avocado: red bell pepper, carrots, mushrooms, and cilantro.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or wrap for a quick snack.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and serve!
Pulled Pork BBQ Sub with Coleslaw
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of pulled pork, crispy sub roll, and refreshing coleslaw in this mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 sub roll
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickle slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker. Brush the BBQ mixture evenly over the pork.
4. Cover and cook for 6-8 hours or overnight until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Shred the pork with two forks and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Split the sub roll in half lengthwise and toast lightly.
7. Assemble the subs by placing a generous amount of pulled pork onto the toasted bread, followed by a dollop of coleslaw and optional pickle slices.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours or overnight
Turkey and Swiss Cheese Sub with Cranberry Mayo
Elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and savory combination of juicy turkey, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy cranberry mayo on a crispy sub roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sliced deli turkey
– 2 tablespoons cranberry mayo (see note)
– 2 slices Swiss cheese
– 4-6 inch sub roll
– Lettuce, tomato, and/or spinach leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwich by spreading cranberry mayo on the bottom half of the sub roll, followed by sliced turkey, Swiss cheese, and any desired lettuce, tomato, or spinach leaves.
3. Top with the remaining sub roll half.
4. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately.
Note: To make cranberry mayo, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought). Adjust to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Tuna Melt Sub with Pickles and Celery
A classic sandwich gets a flavorful boost with the addition of crunchy pickles and fresh celery.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 can of tuna in water, drained
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of finely chopped pickles
– 1 stalk of celery, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise on one slice of bread, then topping with tuna, cheese, pickles, and celery.
3. Place the other slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Sub
Garlic Butter Shrimp Sub Recipe
Summary: Elevate your sandwich game with this mouth-watering Garlic Butter Shrimp Sub recipe, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce and served on a toasted sub roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 crusty sub rolls, toasted
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
6. Stir in minced garlic and lemon juice. Cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
7. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss with garlic butter sauce.
8. Assemble the subs by placing the shrimp mixture onto toasted sub rolls.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Sub with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
Elevate your sandwich game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, featuring the classic Italian trio of fresh mozzarella, basil, and juicy tomato.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of crusty bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Layer the bread with mozzarella slices, tomato halves, and basil leaves.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Serve immediately and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Reuben Sub with Sauerkraut and Thousand Island Dressing
Classic Reuben Sub with Sauerkraut and Thousand Island Dressing Recipe
This mouthwatering sandwich combines the savory flavors of corned beef, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy sauerkraut, all held together by a crispy sub roll slathered in creamy Thousand Island dressing.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of corned beef
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of sauerkraut
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 4 sub rolls
– 2 tablespoons of Thousand Island dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a griddle or skillet over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each sub roll.
3. Place two slices of corned beef on the unbuttered side of each roll.
4. Top the corned beef with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese.
5. Place the rolls, buttered-side down, on the griddle or skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Slather Thousand Island dressing on top of each sandwich.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Sub with Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired sandwich that combines crispy chicken, melted mozzarella cheese, and tangy marinara sauce on a soft sub roll.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 sub rolls
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip chicken strips in flour mixture, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Place cooked chicken on sub rolls, followed by marinara sauce, and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek Gyro Sub with Tzatziki Sauce
A flavorful twist on the classic gyro, this recipe combines juicy lamb and beef with crispy pita bread, crunchy vegetables, and a refreshing dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb and beef mixture
– 4-6 pita breads
– 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped tomato
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the lamb and beef mixture over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Meanwhile, toast the pita breads in the oven for 5-7 minutes or grill them until crispy.
4. Assemble the gyros by spreading tzatziki sauce on each pita, followed by a layer of meat, cucumber, tomato, and feta cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BLT Sub with Crispy Bacon and Aioli
Elevate the classic BLT sandwich to new heights with this recipe featuring crispy bacon and creamy aioli.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Baguette work well)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 large lettuce leaves
– 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise-based aioli (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Aioli Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread slices.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading aioli on each toasted slice, followed by a lettuce leaf, a tomato slice, and two strips of crispy bacon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cuban Sub with Ham, Pork, and Swiss Cheese
Experience the flavors of Cuba in every bite with this mouthwatering sub sandwich, packed with ham, pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 long Cuban sub roll
– 2 oz prosciutto or serrano ham
– 2 oz roasted pork (such as mojo-marinated pork)
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup diced pickles
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Layer the prosciutto, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and diced pickles on one half of the sub roll.
3. Spread a layer of Dijon mustard on the other half of the sub roll.
4. Assemble the sandwich by placing the mustard-covered half on top of the meat and cheese mixture.
5. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill for about 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Jalapeño Popper Sub with Cream Cheese and Bacon
Elevate your sub game with this bold and creamy recipe that combines the flavors of jalapeños, cream cheese, and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 12-15 jalapeños
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick pieces and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a separate pan, cook the jalapeños over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Spread softened cream cheese on each toasted sub roll half, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Add cooked jalapeños, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese (if using) on top of the cream cheese.
6. Assemble the subs by placing the other half of the baguette on top.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Sub with Herbed Ricotta
Eggplant Parmesan Sub with Herbed Ricotta Recipe
A twist on the classic Italian-American favorite, this recipe combines tender eggplant slices, creamy herbed ricotta, and melted mozzarella cheese in a crispy sub roll.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 sub roll, crusty Italian-style
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine ricotta cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the herbed ricotta mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Assemble subs by placing fried eggplant slices onto the sub roll, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Place subs under broiler for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Breakfast Sub with Scrambled Eggs and Sausage
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast sub packed with scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a busy morning.
Ingredients:
– 4 eggs
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage links, sliced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, scramble the eggs with a fork. Add butter and stir until melted.
4. Split the hoagie rolls in half and place on a baking sheet.
5. Assemble the subs by placing scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and shredded cheese onto each roll.
6. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roast Beef and Cheddar Sub with Horseradish Sauce
A classic comfort food combination, this Roast Beef and Cheddar Sub is elevated by a tangy and spicy horseradish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roast beef (thinly sliced)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup prepared horseradish sauce
– Mayonnaise or butter, for spreading (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Slice roast beef into thin strips and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hoagie rolls by placing them in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble the subs by spreading mayonnaise or butter on each roll, then layering with roast beef and cheddar cheese.
6. Drizzle horseradish sauce over the top of each sub.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game! This article presents 18 mouth-watering sub recipes for every occasion. From classic Italian meatballs to spicy buffalo chicken, and from veggie delights to indulgent pulled pork BBQ, there’s something for everyone. You’ll also find subs loaded with tuna, shrimp, turkey, and even breakfast-inspired options. Whether you’re craving something savory or sweet, these flavorful subs are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and treat yourself to a sub-stantial culinary adventure!