When it comes to satisfying your cravings for a delicious, cheesy, saucy meal, few options can match the allure of a perfectly crafted pizza sub. But what sets a great pizza sub apart from a mediocre one? Is it the type of bread, the choice of toppings, or the baking time? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make mouth-watering pizza subs that will impress even the pickiest eaters. From the best type of bread to use to creative topping ideas and tips for reheating leftovers, we’ll explore the ins and outs of pizza sub making. By the end of this article, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pizza sub master.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Use a crusty Italian bread for the best results
- Make pizza subs ahead of time to save time during busy days
- Bake pizza subs for 10-12 minutes for perfect cheese melting and crispy crust
- Freeze pizza subs for up to 3 months for easy meal prep
- Get creative with topping combinations to find your new favorite flavor
- Use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese for the ultimate pizza sub experience
- Make gluten-free pizza subs using a pre-made gluten-free crust or make your own dough
Choosing the Perfect Bread
When it comes to making pizza subs, the type of bread you use can make all the difference. While you can use any type of bread you like, a crusty Italian bread is the way to go. Look for a bread that has a bit of chew to it, but still yields to a soft interior. Some popular options include Ciabatta, Focaccia, and Italian sub rolls. Avoid using soft, fluffy breads like white sandwich bread, as they won’t hold up well to the toppings and cheese.
Making Pizza Subs Ahead of Time
One of the best things about pizza subs is that you can make them ahead of time and reheat them when you’re ready. To make pizza subs ahead of time, simply assemble the subs as you normally would, but don’t bake them. Instead, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to bake, simply unwrap the subs and bake them in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Baking Pizza Subs to Perfection
When it comes to baking pizza subs, the key is to get the cheese melted and the crust crispy. To do this, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the subs for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you’re using a convection oven, you can bake the subs for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re cooked through. Keep an eye on the subs while they’re baking, as the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the subs.
Freezing Pizza Subs for Later
If you want to make pizza subs ahead of time, but don’t have the time to bake them, consider freezing them for later. To freeze pizza subs, simply assemble the subs as you normally would, but don’t bake them. Instead, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pizza subs will keep for up to 3 months, and can be baked straight from the freezer when you’re ready. Simply unwrap the subs and bake them in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.
Creative Topping Ideas
One of the best things about pizza subs is that you can customize them to your liking. Some popular topping combinations include pepperoni and sausage, mushrooms and onions, and bell peppers and olives. But why stop there? Consider adding some unique toppings like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or even grilled chicken or steak. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and try new combinations.
Choosing the Right Cheese
When it comes to making pizza subs, the type of cheese you use is crucial. While you can use any type of cheese you like, a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese is the way to go. Mozzarella provides a creamy, melty texture, while parmesan adds a salty, savory flavor. You can also add other types of cheese, like provolone or ricotta, for extra flavor and texture.
Making Gluten-Free Pizza Subs
If you or someone in your household has gluten intolerance or sensitivity, don’t worry – you can still make delicious pizza subs. To make gluten-free pizza subs, use a pre-made gluten-free crust or make your own dough using a gluten-free flour blend. Some popular gluten-free flour blends include almond flour, coconut flour, and rice flour. Simply assemble the subs as you normally would, and bake them in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re cooked through.
Feeding a Crowd
Pizza subs are a great option for feeding a crowd, as they’re easy to make and can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. Simply assemble the subs as you normally would, but use a larger crust to accommodate more toppings. You can also make a few extra subs and freeze them for later, so you have a backup plan in case some guests don’t show up.
Making Pizza Subs Healthier
If you’re looking for a healthier pizza sub option, consider using whole wheat or whole grain bread, and loading up on vegetables and lean protein sources. Some popular healthier topping combinations include roasted vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, lean meats like turkey or chicken, and dairy-free cheese alternatives like soy cheese or cashew cheese.
Reheating Leftover Pizza Subs
If you have leftover pizza subs, don’t worry – they can be reheated in a few different ways. To reheat leftover pizza subs in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the subs for 5-10 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. You can also reheat pizza subs in the microwave by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and heating them for 20-30 seconds. Finally, you can reheat pizza subs on the stovetop by wrapping them in foil and heating them over low heat for 5-10 minutes.
Adding Extra Seasonings or Herbs
One of the best things about pizza subs is that you can customize them to your liking. Consider adding some extra seasonings or herbs to give your pizza subs an extra boost of flavor. Some popular options include dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder, as well as fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.
Serving Pizza Subs
Pizza subs are a great option for a quick and easy meal, but they can also be dressed up for a more formal occasion. Consider serving pizza subs at a party or gathering by slicing them into smaller pieces and arranging them on a platter. You can also serve pizza subs with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best way to store leftover pizza subs?
To store leftover pizza subs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Leftover pizza subs will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, and can be reheated in the oven or microwave when you’re ready.
Can I use a pizza stone to bake pizza subs?
Yes, you can use a pizza stone to bake pizza subs. Simply preheat the stone in the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the subs for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re cooked through. This will help to create a crispy crust and well-cooked toppings.
How do I prevent the cheese from getting too brown on the subs?
To prevent the cheese from getting too brown on the subs, you can cover the subs with foil for the first 5-7 minutes of baking. This will help to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly, and will also help to ensure that the subs cook evenly.
Can I use a different type of cheese on pizza subs?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese on pizza subs. Some popular options include cheddar, Swiss, and feta cheese. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find the one that you like best.
How do I make gluten-free pizza subs more flavorful?
To make gluten-free pizza subs more flavorful, consider adding some extra seasonings or herbs. Some popular options include dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder, as well as fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary. You can also try using different types of cheese or toppings to add extra flavor to your gluten-free pizza subs.



