Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich: 4 Easy Steps To Make It

If you love bold flavors, hearty sandwiches, and Italian cuisine, then the Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is a must-try. Packed with layers of cured meats, provolone cheese, and tangy olive salad, this Sicilian-American creation is perfect for feeding a crowd.

Originally from New Orleans, the Muffaletta has become an iconic sandwich, known for its rich flavors, crispy-yet-soft bread, and satisfying bite. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, game day, or a picnic, this sandwich will leave everyone craving more.

According to Chef Emma, “The secret to a perfect Muffaletta is balance—salty meats, creamy cheese, and a briny olive salad that ties everything together. Every bite should be a mix of all these amazing flavors.”

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So, what makes a Muffaletta special, and how can you make an authentic, giant version at home? Let’s dive into the details.

What is a Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich?

The Muffaletta (or Muffuletta) sandwich is a large, round Italian sandwich stacked with layers of:

✔ Cured Italian meats like salami, mortadella, and ham
✔ Cheese (typically provolone or mozzarella)
✔ Homemade olive salad (a tangy, briny mix of olives, garlic, and spices)
✔ Crispy yet soft Muffaletta bread

This sandwich is pressed and left to rest, allowing the flavors to meld together, making it even more delicious over time.

Unlike traditional sub sandwiches, the Muffaletta stands out for its distinctive bread and olive salad, which give it a uniquely savory, tangy kick.

The History of the Muffaletta: A Sicilian-American Classic

The Muffaletta has its roots in Sicily but was popularized in New Orleans in the early 1900s.

Sicilian Origins

The name “Muffaletta” comes from a type of round, sesame-covered Italian bread that was a staple in Sicilian cuisine. Italian immigrants brought it to America, where it evolved into a hearty sandwich.

New Orleans Connection

The Muffaletta as we know it today was first created at Central Grocery in New Orleans, a famous Italian market in the French Quarter. Sicilian immigrants working in the area needed a quick, filling lunch, and the shop owner combined cold cuts, cheese, and olive salad on a large loaf of Muffaletta bread.

From there, the Muffaletta sandwich became a New Orleans classic, beloved for its bold flavors and satisfying size.

Why You’ll Love This Sandwich

The Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is more than just a sandwich—it’s a flavor-packed masterpiece. Whether you’re a fan of Italian cold cuts or just love a hearty, well-balanced sandwich, here’s why you’ll love making this at home.

1. It’s Perfect for Sharing

This giant sandwich is made on a large round loaf, making it ideal for serving a crowd. Slice it into wedges for an easy, no-mess meal that everyone can enjoy.

2. The Flavors Get Better Over Time

Unlike most sandwiches that can get soggy, the Muffaletta actually improves as it rests. The olive salad seeps into the bread, creating a rich, tangy bite in every piece.

3. No Cooking Required

Everything in this sandwich is ready to eat—no need to cook or grill. Just layer, press, and let the flavors meld together.

4. It’s Customizable

While the classic Muffaletta includes salami, mortadella, and provolone, you can easily adjust it:

✔ Want it spicier? Add sliced pepperoncini.
✔ Prefer a lighter version? Use turkey or chicken breast instead of ham.
✔ Love cheese? Double up on provolone or add fresh mozzarella.

5. The Olive Salad is a Game-Changer

If you’ve never had Muffaletta olive salad, you’re in for a treat. This mix of olives, garlic, capers, and oil gives the sandwich its signature briny, tangy flavor.

Chef Emma’s Insight: “The olive salad is what truly makes the Muffaletta unique. If you skip it, you’re missing the heart of this sandwich.”

Chef Emma’s Secrets to Making the Perfect Muffaletta

1. Use the Right Bread

Traditional Muffaletta bread is soft yet sturdy, with a crispy sesame seed crust. If you can’t find it, a round Italian loaf or ciabatta works as a substitute.

✔ Avoid baguettes—they’re too hard and can overpower the filling.
✔ Soft focaccia is a great alternative for extra flavor.

2. Let the Sandwich Rest Before Serving

A freshly made Muffaletta is good, but a Muffaletta that’s had time to rest is amazing.

✔ Press it down with a heavy object (like a cast-iron pan) for at least 30 minutes.
✔ This allows the olive salad’s juices to soak into the bread, enhancing the flavor.

3. Layer the Ingredients in the Right Order

✔ Start with olive salad on both sides of the bread—this keeps the sandwich moist.
✔ Layer meats and cheeses evenly to ensure every bite has the perfect balance.
✔ Finish with another layer of olive salad before pressing.

4. Don’t Overstuff It

Even though the Muffaletta is big and hearty, too much filling can make it hard to eat.

✔ Stick to 2-3 layers of each ingredient for the best balance.
✔ Slice the sandwich into quarters or eighths for easy serving.

5. Serve It at Room Temperature

✔ The flavors of Italian meats and cheeses are best enjoyed at room temperature.
✔ Let the sandwich sit out for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the fridge.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

Now that you know why the Muffaletta is a must-try sandwich, it’s time to make it yourself. Follow this step-by-step guide to create an authentic, flavor-packed Giant Muffaletta at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Olive Salad:

• 1 cup green olives, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup black olives, pitted and chopped
• ¼ cup roasted red peppers, diced
• ¼ cup pickled giardiniera vegetables, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons capers, drained
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

For the Sandwich:

• 1 large round loaf of Muffaletta bread (or Italian bread with sesame seeds)
• ¼ pound Genoa salami, thinly sliced
• ¼ pound mortadella, thinly sliced
• ¼ pound provolone cheese, sliced
• ¼ pound mozzarella cheese, sliced

Step 1: Making the Olive Salad

The olive salad is the heart of the Muffaletta—it adds the bold, tangy flavor that makes this sandwich unique.

1. In a medium bowl, combine green and black olives, roasted red peppers, giardiniera vegetables, capers, and minced garlic.
2. Add dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes.
3. Pour in the olive oil, then stir well.
4. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “For the best flavor, make the olive salad a day in advance. The longer it marinates, the better it tastes!”

Step 2: Choosing the Right Bread

Traditional Muffaletta bread is round, soft, and topped with sesame seeds. If you can’t find it, here are some alternatives:

✔ Ciabatta or focaccia – Soft but sturdy enough to hold the filling.
✔ Round Italian bread – Similar texture to classic Muffaletta bread.
✔ Avoid baguettes – They are too hard and don’t absorb the olive salad well.

Preparation:

• Slice the bread horizontally into two equal halves.
• If the bread is too thick, scoop out some of the inside to make room for the filling.

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Toasting the bread lightly can help prevent sogginess, but it’s not necessary if using authentic Muffaletta bread.”

Step 3: Layering the Meats and Cheeses

1. Spread a generous layer of olive salad on both sides of the bread.
2. Layer the Genoa salami evenly over the bottom half.
3. Add the mortadella, followed by the ham.
4. Place a layer of provolone cheese, then mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Finish with another layer of olive salad before placing the top half of the bread back on.

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “For the best texture, layer the meats and cheeses evenly, making sure no single ingredient overpowers the others.”

Step 4: Pressing and Serving the Muffaletta

A key step in making a perfect Muffaletta is pressing it so the flavors meld together.

1. Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap.
2. Place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet or a baking sheet with weights) on top.
3. Let it press for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) before slicing.

✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Pressing the Muffaletta allows the flavors to absorb into the bread, making every bite taste amazing!”

Serving:

• Slice into quarters or eighths for easy serving.
• Enjoy at room temperature for the best flavor.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with a Muffaletta

A Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is a meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can make your dining experience even better. Here are some of the best side dishes to serve with a Muffaletta:

1. Classic Italian Pasta Salad

A light pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil complements the richness of the sandwich.

✔ Use penne, rotini, or fusilli for the best texture.
✔ Toss with balsamic dressing for extra flavor.

✔ Try it alongside San Giorgio Lasagna for a full Italian meal experience.

2. Garlic Parmesan Fries

Crispy fries tossed with garlic and Parmesan bring a salty crunch that pairs well with the Muffaletta’s bold flavors.

✔ Bake or air-fry for a healthier version.
✔ Serve with garlic aioli or marinara sauce.

✔ Serve with Aioli Mustard Sauce for an extra layer of creamy, tangy goodness.

3. Marinated Antipasto Platter

An antipasto platter with marinated artichokes, roasted red peppers, olives, and cheeses enhances the Mediterranean flavors of the Muffaletta.

✔ Add Italian meats like prosciutto and capicola for an extra treat.

4. Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A light green salad balances the sandwich’s richness.

✔ Use arugula, mixed greens, or romaine for freshness.
✔ Dress with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and black pepper.

5. Sicilian Caponata

A sweet-and-savory eggplant-based Sicilian dish, Caponata adds a tangy contrast to the Muffaletta.

✔ Made with eggplant, tomatoes, capers, and olives.

✔ Try it with Italian Meatloaf for another hearty meal pairing.

Chef Emma’s Tip: “A Muffaletta is a bold sandwich, so pairing it with fresh, crunchy, or tangy sides helps balance the meal.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though the Muffaletta is easy to make, small mistakes can affect its texture and taste. Here’s what to avoid:

1. Using the Wrong Bread

✔ Authentic Muffaletta bread is soft yet sturdy. A baguette is too hard and won’t absorb the olive salad properly.

2. Skipping the Resting Time

✔ Pressing the sandwich for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend. Skipping this step makes the sandwich less flavorful.

3. Not Using Enough Olive Salad

✔ The olive salad is the star of the sandwich. Don’t skimp on it—spread it generously on both sides of the bread.

4. Overloading with Meat and Cheese

✔ Too much filling makes the sandwich hard to eat and overpowering. Stick to balanced layers for the best flavor.

5. Serving It Too Cold

✔ The Muffaletta should be served at room temperature to enjoy the full flavors of the meats, cheeses, and olive salad.

Chef Emma’s Tip: “A perfect Muffaletta is all about balance—every bite should have a little bit of everything, from the bread to the meats and the olive salad.”

FAQs About the Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

Conclusion

The Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is a bold, flavor-packed creation that combines the best of Italian meats, cheeses, and a tangy olive salad. Perfect for parties, family meals, or meal prep, this sandwich is a New Orleans classic with deep Sicilian roots.

With Chef Emma’s expert tips, you now have everything you need to make the perfect Muffaletta at home. Whether you’re serving it for game day, a picnic, or a casual lunch, this hearty, satisfying sandwich will always impress.

Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich

The Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich is a Sicilian-American classic, packed with layers of Italian meats, cheeses, and a bold olive salad. Perfect for parties, game days, and family gatherings, this New Orleans favorite delivers an irresistible combination of flavors in every bite.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Main Dish, Sandwich

Cuisine American, Italian, New Orleans

Servings 6

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Olive Salad:

• 1 cup green olives pitted and chopped
• 1 cup black olives pitted and chopped
• ¼ cup roasted red peppers diced
• ¼ cup pickled giardiniera vegetables finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons capers drained
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

For the Sandwich:

• 1 large round loaf of Muffaletta bread or sesame-topped Italian bread
• ¼ pound Genoa salami thinly sliced
• ¼ pound mortadella thinly sliced
• ¼ pound ham thinly sliced
• ¼ pound provolone cheese sliced
• ¼ pound mozzarella cheese sliced

Instructions

 

Step 1: Make the Olive Salad

• In a mixing bowl, combine green and black olives, roasted red peppers, giardiniera, capers, and minced garlic.
• Add oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, then stir well.
• Pour in olive oil and red wine vinegar, mixing thoroughly.
• Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “For the best flavor, prepare the olive salad a day in advance.”

Step 2: Prepare the Muffaletta Bread

• Slice the Muffaletta bread in half horizontally using a serrated knife.
• If the bread is too thick, scoop out some of the inside to make room for the filling.
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “A light toasting can help prevent sogginess, but traditional Muffaletta bread doesn’t require it.”

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

• Spread a generous layer of olive salad on both halves of the bread.
• On the bottom half, layer the meats in this order:
• Genoa salami
• Mortadella
• Ham
• Place the cheeses on top:
• Provolone
• Mozzarella
• Add another layer of olive salad before closing the sandwich.
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Layering the meats and cheeses evenly ensures every bite is balanced.”

Step 4: Press the Muffaletta

• Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper or plastic wrap.
• Place a heavy object (like a cast-iron skillet) on top.
• Let the sandwich rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• ✔ Chef Emma’s Tip: “Pressing the Muffaletta enhances the taste by letting the olive salad soak into the bread.”

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Slice into quarters or eighths for easy serving.
• Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.
• ✔ Pair with:
• Italian pasta salad
• Garlic Parmesan fries
• Pickles or giardiniera

Notes

✔ Use authentic Muffaletta bread or substitute with ciabatta or focaccia.
✔ Let the sandwich rest before serving to allow flavors to meld.
✔ Customize with additional toppings like spicy pepperoncini or extra cheese.

Keyword Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich, Italian cold cut sandwich, Muffaletta recipe, New Orleans sandwich

Now that you know how to make an authentic Muffaletta, pair it with a classic pasta salad or Aioli Mustard Sauce for the ultimate experience. Try it today and bring a taste of New Orleans to your home!

Final Tips for the Best Muffaletta:

✔ Use authentic Muffaletta bread or a good substitute like ciabatta or focaccia.
✔ Let the sandwich rest before serving to enhance the flavor.
✔ Be generous with the olive salad—it’s the secret to the perfect Muffaletta!

Try this recipe today and experience the magic of the Muffaletta for yourself!