Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

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Piled high with cured meats, cheese, and a briny olive salad, the Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich is a bold, satisfying bite from the heart of New Orleans. This sandwich isn’t just a meal, it’s a celebration of flavor layers — salty, tangy, and savory in each fork-free mouthful. It’s got crunch from the bread, richness from the meats and cheese, and zing from the marinated vegetables.

Traditionally served cold or at room temperature, the Muffuletta was born in Sicilian-American markets and became a local legend. Perfect for picnics, game days, or any time you need to feed a crowd, this sandwich benefits from being made ahead, giving time for the flavors to mingle and develop. If you’re ready to meet the sandwich that eats like a feast, this one’s for you.

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What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

The classic choice is round sesame Sicilian bread — sturdy and slightly chewy with a soft interior. It should be able to hold up to juicy fillings without getting soggy. If you can’t find traditional Muffuletta loaves, opt for focaccia, ciabatta, or a rustic round Italian loaf.

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Ingredients for the Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

Muffuletta Bread or Italian Round Loaf
You need a hearty bread that can soak up the olive salad oils without falling apart.

Olive Salad
The soul of the Muffuletta. Made with green and black olives, giardiniera, capers, garlic, herbs, and olive oil, it brings brightness and acidity.

Genoa Salami
Its spiced, savory flavor adds depth and traditional Italian character.

Capicola or Mortadella
This rich cured meat lends a buttery texture and slight spice.

Ham
A classic deli cut that provides volume and mild saltiness.

Provolone Cheese
Sharp and creamy, provolone adds a nutty flavor and helps bind the layers.

Mozzarella or Swiss Cheese
A milder cheese to balance the sharper provolone and add melt-in-the-mouth texture.

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How To Make the Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

Step 1: Prepare the Olive Salad

Chop green and black olives, giardiniera mix, and capers into small pieces. Mix in minced garlic, dried oregano, crushed red pepper, and a generous pour of olive oil. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.

Step 2: Slice the Bread

Use a serrated knife to slice your round bread loaf horizontally. Hollow out a little bit of the soft interior to make space for the filling, especially if the bread is very thick.

Step 3: Layer the Flavors

Spread a generous amount of olive salad on the bottom half of the bread, making sure some oil soaks into the crumb. Then layer the meats in this order: salami, capicola or mortadella, and ham. Follow with provolone and mozzarella or Swiss cheese.

Step 4: Add More Olive Salad

Top the cheese with another layer of olive salad, pressing it gently into the cheese. This ensures every bite gets that tangy punch.

Step 5: Assemble and Press

Place the top half of the bread back on and press down firmly. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Cut the sandwich into wedges with a sharp knife. Serve cold or at room temperature, and enjoy the full impact of every savory, briny, cheesy layer.

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Serving and Storing the Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

The Muffuletta is best served slightly chilled or at room temperature after resting. This gives time for the olive salad to soak into the bread and unify the layers. It’s an ideal make-ahead option for parties, tailgates, or road trip lunches.

Store any leftovers tightly wrapped in foil or plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better, but the bread may soften a bit after the first day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the olive salad in advance?

Absolutely. In fact, making it a day ahead enhances the flavors. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

What if I can’t find traditional Muffuletta bread?

Focaccia, ciabatta, or any sturdy rustic loaf will work well. Avoid soft sandwich bread as it will get soggy.

Is this sandwich served hot or cold?

Traditionally, it’s served cold or at room temperature. Warming it is optional but not necessary.

Can I use different meats and cheeses?

Yes, but stick to Italian-style deli meats and semi-hard cheeses to maintain the right texture and flavor balance.

How do I keep the sandwich from getting soggy?

Use crusty bread and don’t skip the resting time wrapped in foil. The bread will absorb the oil without becoming mushy if it’s dense enough.

Can I make individual portions?

Yes! Use crusty rolls or baguettes and follow the same layering method. Perfect for lunchboxes or quick snacks.

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Want More Sandwich Ideas?

You might also like the Italian Grinder Salad, which reimagines the deli sandwich in a fresh, deconstructed bowl. Or try the Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sub, a smoky-meets-creamy sub experience that’s just as hearty.

For something with a little Southern flair, check out the Sloppy Joe Casserole — it delivers all the messy joy in a baked form. Craving more beef? The Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta mixes comfort food with pasta night ease.

And if rich and cheesy sounds appealing, the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti might just be your next favorite.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your sandwich board for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you switch up the meats? Add extra spice to the olive salad? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

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