Introduction
The Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is a culinary masterpiece that hails from New Orleans, blending Italian flavors with Southern charm. This hearty sandwich is not only visually impressive but also packed with a delicious combination of meats, cheeses, and a zesty olive salad, all nestled within a crusty round loaf of Italian bread.
Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a satisfying lunch, the Muffaletta is a crowd favorite that offers a burst of flavors in every bite. The method of pressing the sandwich allows the ingredients to meld together, enhancing the taste and creating a delightful texture. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it on a lazy afternoon, this sandwich is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings for something truly special. Enjoy the rich heritage and mouthwatering flavors of the Giant Muffaletta!
Ingredients
1 large round Italian bread loaf (about 10 inches in diameter)
¼ cup olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
¼ lb thinly sliced turkey ham
¼ lb thinly sliced beef salami
¼ lb thinly sliced mortadella
¼ lb sliced provolone cheese
¼ lb sliced mozzarella cheese
1 cup olive salad (store-bought or homemade)
¼ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Bread:
Cut the bread loaf in half horizontally to create top and bottom halves.
Make the Oil Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, oregano, and basil.
Brush the Bread:
Generously brush the oil mixture on both cut sides of the bread.
Layer the Ingredients:
On the bottom half of the bread, layer the ingredients in the following order:
Turkey ham
Beef salami
Mortadella
Provolone cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Add Olive Salad:
Spread the olive salad evenly over the cheese layer. If desired, add pepperoncini peppers on top.
Assemble the Sandwich:
Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich and press down gently.
Wrap and Weigh:
Wrap the entire sandwich tightly in plastic wrap.
Place a heavy weight (like a cast-iron skillet) on top of the wrapped sandwich and refrigerate for at
Method of Storage
To keep your Giant Muffaletta fresh and flavorful, follow these storage guidelines:
Short-Term Storage (Refrigeration)
Cool Down:
If the sandwich is warm, allow it to cool to room temperature before storing.
Wrap Tightly:
Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps prevent it from drying out and keeps the flavors intact.
Refrigerate:
Store the wrapped sandwich in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier!
Long-Term Storage (Freezing)
Cool Down:
Ensure the sandwich is completely cool before freezing.
Portioning:
If desired, cut the sandwich into wedges or halves for easier serving later.
Use Freezer Bags/Containers:
Place the wrapped sandwich in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Label and Date:
Label the bag or container with the date and contents for easy identification.
Freeze:
Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating
From Refrigerator:
Unwrap the sandwich and enjoy it cold, or reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
From Freezer:
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat as above. Alternatively, you can reheat directly from frozen in a skillet, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.