Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

 Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich – The Ultimate Party Sandwich

If you're looking for a showstopping sandwich that’s packed with bold flavors and layers of deliciousness, the Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is your answer. Originally from New Orleans, this Italian-inspired masterpiece features layers of cured meats, cheeses, and a signature olive salad—all packed into a crusty, round loaf. Whether you're hosting a party, planning a picnic, or just craving an over-the-top deli sandwich, the Muffaletta delivers in both size and taste.

This recipe ensures authentic flavors with a homemade olive salad that soaks into the bread, elevating every bite. Follow our step-by-step guide to make the perfect Giant Muffaletta, and impress everyone at your next gathering!

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Ingredients for the Ultimate Muffaletta

1. Bread:

1 large round Italian or Sicilian loaf – A sturdy loaf is essential to hold the layers of fillings without becoming soggy.

2. Olive Salad (The Star of the Show!):

1 cup green olives, pitted and chopped – Adds briny, tangy depth.

1 cup black olives, pitted and chopped – Balances the green olives with a mild, earthy flavor.

½ cup roasted red peppers, diced – Sweetness and smokiness to enhance the salad.

¼ cup capers, drained – Extra briny, salty goodness.

¼ cup banana peppers, chopped – A slight heat for a zesty punch.

¼ cup finely chopped celery – Adds a satisfying crunch.

½ cup extra virgin olive oil – Helps meld flavors together and keeps the salad moist.

¼ cup red wine vinegar – Bright acidity to balance the richness.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds an irresistible aromatic depth.

1 teaspoon dried oregano – Classic Italian seasoning.

½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – A little heat for those who love spice.

3. Meats & Cheeses:

¼ lb Genoa salami – Bold and peppery flavor.

¼ lb capicola – Brings a smoky, slightly spiced taste.

¼ lb mortadella – Creamy and nutty with pistachios.

¼ lb prosciutto – Thin, salty, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

¼ lb provolone cheese – Sharp and creamy for depth.

¼ lb mozzarella cheese – Mild and melty for texture contrast.

4. Extras for Assembling:

2 tablespoons butter, softened – Helps toast the bread for extra crunch.

Lettuce (optional, for added crunch)

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How to Make a Giant Muffaletta – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Olive Salad

1. In a large bowl, mix green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, capers, banana peppers, celery, garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes.

2. Pour in olive oil and red wine vinegar, then stir well to combine.

3. Cover and let it sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better!) to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

1. Slice the Italian loaf horizontally, creating a top and bottom half.

2. Scoop out a little bread from the inside of each half to make room for the fillings.

3. Spread a generous amount of olive salad on both halves, ensuring the oil soaks into the bread.

Step 3: Layer the Meats and Cheeses

1. Begin with provolone cheese, forming the first layer.

2. Add Genoa salami, followed by capicola, mortadella, and prosciutto.

3. Top with mozzarella cheese for a creamy contrast.

4. If using, add lettuce for extra crunch.

Step 4: Assemble and Press

1. Place the top half of the bread over the layered meats and cheeses.

2. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and place a heavy skillet or cutting board on top.

3. Let it sit for 30 minutes to an hour—this helps the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Toast and Serve (Optional)

1. Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.

2. Brush the outside of the bread with butter, then toast for 2-3 minutes per side for a golden, crispy crust.

3. Slice into quarters or eighths and serve!

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Why Everyone Loves This Muffaletta

Authentic New Orleans flavors – Just like what you'd get in the French Quarter!

Perfectly balanced textures – Crunchy bread, creamy cheese, and meaty goodness.

Great for meal prep – The flavors get even better overnight, making it ideal for picnics and parties.

Feeds a crowd – A giant sandwich that’s easy to slice and share.

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Pro Tips for the Best Muffaletta

✅ Let the olive salad marinate overnight – The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes!

✅ Use high-quality meats and cheeses – Authentic Italian deli cuts make a world of difference.

✅ Press the sandwich – This step ensures all ingredients fuse together, creating an incredible bite.

✅ Don’t skimp on the olive oil – It’s what keeps the sandwich from drying out.

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Serving Suggestions – What Goes Well with a Muffaletta?

Potato chips – Classic crunch to contrast the hearty sandwich.

Pasta salad – A light, tangy side to balance the richness.

Cold beer or iced tea – Refreshing drinks that complement the flavors.

Pickles or pepperoncini – Extra tanginess to cut through the meats and cheeses.

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Final Thoughts – The Best Muffaletta Recipe You’ll Ever Make!

This Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is the ultimate deli-style creation, bursting with authentic flavors, layers of premium meats, and a signature olive salad that soaks beautifully into the bread. Whether you’re making it for a party, tailgate, or a weekend treat, this recipe delivers bold, satisfying

 flavors in every bite.

Follow this guide, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality Muffaletta right at home. Try it today and let the flavors take you straight to New Orleans!