The Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich is a hearty, flavor-packed deli-style creation made famous in New Orleans. Built on a round, crusty loaf and layered with cured meats, cheeses, and a zesty olive salad, this sandwich is perfect for picnics, parties, or make-ahead lunches. With bold Italian flavors in every bite, it’s a true sandwich lover’s dream.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Muffuletta is a unique and satisfying sandwich that combines savory meats, rich cheeses, and a briny olive salad for an unforgettable taste. It’s incredibly easy to make and even better when prepared ahead of time—allowing the flavors to meld together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for the week, this sandwich delivers big on taste and convenience.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Round Italian or Sicilian bread loaf (about 10 inches)
- Genoa salami
- Capicola or mortadella
- Ham
- Provolone cheese
- Mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Olive salad (store-bought or homemade with green and black olives, giardiniera, garlic, capers, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and herbs)
- Roasted red peppers (optional)
- Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- Slice the loaf of bread horizontally and hollow out a little of the soft interior to make room for the fillings.
- Spread a generous layer of olive salad over both cut sides of the bread, letting the oil soak into the loaf.
- Layer the meats: start with ham, followed by salami, then capicola or mortadella.
- Add provolone and mozzarella slices on top of the meat.
- Optional: add roasted red peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Press the sandwich together firmly. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight) to let the flavors combine and the sandwich set.
- Slice into wedges and serve cold or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour (recommended)
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Serves: 4 to 6
Variations
- Spicy version: Add pepperoncini or hot giardiniera to the olive salad.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the meats and load up with grilled vegetables and cheese.
- Mini muffulettas: Use ciabatta rolls or small focaccia rounds for individual servings.
- Toasted twist: Warm the sandwich in a panini press or oven for a melty version.
- Different breads: Use focaccia or a large ciabatta loaf if Italian round bread isn’t available.
storage/reheating
Store the fully assembled, wrapped sandwich in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This sandwich is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but can be warmed slightly if preferred.
Reheating is not necessary but if desired, wrap in foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes.
FAQs
What is a muffuletta sandwich?
The muffuletta is a classic New Orleans sandwich made with Italian meats, cheeses, and a briny olive salad, all layered on a round Italian loaf.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it’s best when made ahead and chilled for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.
What kind of bread should I use?
Traditional muffuletta uses a round Italian or Sicilian loaf with a soft interior and crusty exterior.
Do I have to use all the meats?
No, you can mix and match based on preference. Mortadella, salami, and ham are traditional, but prosciutto or turkey can also be used.
Can I use store-bought olive salad?
Yes, many delis or specialty stores sell prepared olive salad, but homemade versions are easy and flavorful.
What cheeses work best?
Provolone and mozzarella are classic, but you can also add Swiss or fontina for variation.
Is this sandwich served hot or cold?
Traditionally, it’s served cold or at room temperature, but you can toast it for a warm version.
How long can I store it?
It keeps well wrapped in the fridge for up to 2 days. The bread may soften slightly over time.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the bread and olive salad when thawed.
What sides go well with it?
Serve with chips, pickles, a simple salad, or pasta salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
The Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich is a bold, flavorful creation that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of meats, cheese, and zesty olive salad, it’s a portable feast that only gets better with time. Whether for lunch, a picnic, or a party spread, this sandwich delivers an unbeatable combination of taste and texture. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of New Orleans with an Italian twist.
PrintClassic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich
A hearty and flavorful New Orleans-style sandwich made with layers of Italian meats, cheeses, and a tangy olive salad, all packed into a round sesame loaf—perfect for sharing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 round sesame Italian loaf (8–10 inches)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ¾ cup chopped mixed olives (green and black)
- ½ cup chopped giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables)
- ¼ cup chopped roasted red peppers
- 2 tbsp capers
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 8 oz Genoa salami, thinly sliced
- 8 oz mortadella, thinly sliced
- 8 oz ham or capicola, thinly sliced
- 4 oz provolone cheese, sliced
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions
- Cut the loaf horizontally and hollow out some of the inside bread to make room for fillings.
- In a bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and basil. Mix in olives, giardiniera, red peppers, capers, and garlic to make olive salad.
- Brush both cut sides of the bread with some of the dressing.
- Layer meats and cheeses on the bottom half of the bread.
- Spread olive salad mixture evenly over the cheese layer.
- Top with the other half of the loaf. Press down firmly.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Slice into wedges to serve.
Notes
- Use ciabatta or focaccia if muffuletta bread isn’t available.
- Allowing time to rest enhances the flavor and texture.
- Swap in your favorite Italian meats or cheeses.
- Can be made a day ahead and freezes well wrapped tightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 sandwich
- Calories: 910 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 2125 mg
- Fat: 35 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 59 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg