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Classic Italian Muffuletta Sandwich

The Muffuletta sandwich is a classic Italian New Orleans creation, featuring layers of delicious cold cuts, cheese, and olive salad between a hearty round bread. Perfect for picnics or as a satisfying lunch, this sandwich is full of bold flavors and textures.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 People
Calories 650 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large cutting board
  • 1 sharp knife
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 spoon or spatula
  • 1 sandwich press or heavy skillet optional
  • 1 plastic wrap or sandwich bags for storage

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf Italian bread About 12 inches in diameter.
  • 1 cup green olives Pitted and chopped.
  • 1 cup black olives Pitted and chopped.
  • 1 clove garlic Minced.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 cup sliced mortadella
  • 1 cup sliced salami
  • 1 cup sliced provolone cheese
  • 1 cup sliced ham
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped green olives, black olives, minced garlic, oregano, olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. This is your olive salad. Mix thoroughly and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Slice the Italian bread in half horizontally. If desired, lightly toast the insides of each half on a skillet for 2–3 minutes until golden.
  • On the bottom half of the bread, layer the sliced mortadella, salami, ham, and provolone cheese. You can adjust the order based on your preference.
  • Once your olive salad is ready, spread it generously over the cheese layer. Make sure to include some of the olive oil marinade from the salad.
  • Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich. Press down gently to compress the layers slightly, ensuring that all ingredients adhere together.
  • If desired, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld further. You can also use a sandwich press or a heavy skillet to press down on the sandwich for a few minutes before serving.
  • To serve, slice the sandwich into quarters and enjoy!

Notes

The Muffuletta sandwich is best made a few hours in advance or even the day before, as this allows the flavors to deepen.
Feel free to customize the cold cuts and cheese based on your preference.
This sandwich pairs well with a side of chips or a simple green salad.
Store any leftover sandwiches in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Enjoy the classic Italian taste of New Orleans!