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Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich: A Flavor-Packed Feast!

If you’re looking for a sandwich that commands attention — in size and flavor — the Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is exactly what you need. Originating from New Orleans and loved nationwide, the muffaletta is a bold, hearty, layered masterpiece featuring cured meats, cheeses, and its signature olive salad. It’s a celebration of Italian flavors wrapped in a crusty loaf that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Whether you’re hosting game day, planning a picnic, or simply craving a show-stopping sandwich, a giant muffaletta guarantees everyone leaves satisfied. Each slice delivers salty, tangy, meaty goodness in perfect balance.

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🥪 What Makes a Muffaletta So Special?

• The olive salad — bright, briny, and bursting with herbs and garlic

• Hearty layers of Italian meats like salami, mortadella, and ham

• Creamy cheeses that melt into the bread as it rests

• A huge, round loaf that absorbs all the marinated flavors

• Feeds a crowd beautifully and can be made ahead of time

This isn’t just a sandwich — it’s an event!

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🫒 Ingredients

For the Olive Salad

• 1 cup green olives, chopped

• 1 cup black olives, chopped

• ½ cup roasted red peppers, chopped

• ¼ cup capers

• ½ cup celery, finely diced

• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ⅓ cup olive oil

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sandwich

• 1 large round Italian loaf (muffaletta bread or similar)

• ½ lb Genoa salami, sliced

• ½ lb deli ham or honey ham, sliced

• ½ lb mortadella, sliced

• ½ lb provolone cheese

• ½ lb mozzarella cheese

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🧑‍🍳 How to Make a Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

1. Prepare the Olive Salad

The key to a perfect muffaletta is a bold, flavorful olive mix.

1. Combine olives, peppers, capers, celery, onion, and garlic in a bowl.

2. Add olive oil, vinegar, parsley, oregano, and black pepper.

3. Mix well and refrigerate for at least 1 hour — longer for deeper flavor.

This can be made up to 48 hours ahead.

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2. Prepare the Bread

• Slice the Italian loaf horizontally.

• Scoop out some of the soft bread from the center to make room for the fillings.

• Spread a generous layer of olive salad (with its juices!) onto both sides of the bread.

The olive juices soak in and season the bread beautifully.

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3. Layer the Meats and Cheeses

Build your muffaletta in this order for best structure:

1. Provolone

2. Salami

3. Ham

4. Mortadella

5. Mozzarella

Add a bit more olive salad in the center if you love extra briney flavor.

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4. Close & Press

• Close the sandwich and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.

• Place a heavy skillet or pan on top and press for 1–3 hours in the fridge.

This step helps the flavors meld and creates that classic muffaletta texture.

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🍽️ How to Serve

• Slice into wedges, like a pie.

• Serve cold or at room temperature — both are delicious.

• Great for parties, picnics, tailgates, road trips, and family gatherings.

This sandwich actually tastes better the next day!

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✨ Variations & Tips

• Substitute capicola, pepperoni, or soppressata for a spicier kick.

• Add fresh basil for a herbal lift.

• Swap mozzarella for smoked provolone for depth.

• Make smaller, individual versions on ciabatta rolls.