The Giant Muffaletta Sandwich is a classic New Orleans dish that combines layers of flavorful deli meats, cheeses, and a vibrant olive salad, all nestled between a round loaf of muffuletta bread. This Italian muffaletta recipe is perfect for gatherings and parties, making it the best muffaletta sandwich for sharing with friends and family.
With its origins in Italian-American cuisine, this authentic muffaletta is not only delicious but also visually impressive, making it an ideal party sandwich idea. The combination of savory deli meats and tangy olive salad creates a satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love.
Overview of the Giant Muffaletta Sandwich
The giant muffaletta sandwich is a delightful creation that hails from New Orleans, showcasing a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. This Italian muffaletta recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Layered with vibrant deli meats, provolone cheese, and a colorful olive salad, this sandwich is not only delicious but also visually appealing. When you slice into this masterpiece, the layers of ingredients create an inviting display, making it the best muffaletta sandwich for any occasion.
Ingredients That Make It Special
At the heart of this Italian cold cut sandwich is the muffuletta bread, which provides a sturdy yet soft base for the fillings.
Each layer of the sandwich is carefully selected, featuring salami, ham, mortadella, and provolone cheese. The addition of a homemade or store-bought olive salad adds a tangy kick that perfectly complements the savory meats.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sliced pepperoncini can be included as an optional ingredient, enhancing the flavor profile even further.
Preparation Steps for Success
Creating this deli meat muffaletta is a straightforward process that begins with preparing the olive salad.
Once the salad is ready, slice the muffuletta bread in half horizontally. Layer the meats and cheese generously on the bottom half, followed by the olive salad.
After placing the top half of the bread, gently press down to compact the layers, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.
Chilling for Maximum Flavor
After assembling the sandwich, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it is essential.
This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more delicious sandwich. For the best results, let it chill for at least one hour, or overnight if time permits.
When ready to serve, simply slice the sandwich into wedges and garnish with fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
The giant muffaletta sandwich is best enjoyed with a side of chips or a light salad, making it an ideal party sandwich idea.
Its hearty nature means it can easily serve 10-12 people, making it perfect for gatherings.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a festive celebration, this sandwich will surely impress your guests with its bold flavors and stunning presentation.
Why It’s a Must-Try
This authentic muffaletta is more than just a sandwich; it’s an experience that brings people together.
With its rich history and delicious ingredients, the giant muffaletta sandwich stands out as a favorite among many.
So, whether you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or simply looking for a satisfying meal, this olive salad sandwich is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Delicious Giant Muffaletta Sandwich Recipe

This giant muffaletta sandwich features layers of salami, ham, mortadella, and provolone cheese, topped with a homemade olive salad. The muffuletta bread recipe is key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor, ensuring that your sandwich is a hit at any gathering. The recipe serves approximately 10-12 people.
Ingredients
- 1 round loaf of muffuletta bread (about 10-12 inches in diameter)
- 1/2 pound sliced salami
- 1/2 pound sliced ham
- 1/2 pound sliced mortadella
- 1/2 pound sliced provolone cheese
- 1 cup olive salad (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Olive Salad: If making homemade olive salad, combine chopped olives, garlic, oregano, and olive oil in a bowl. Mix well and set aside to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the muffuletta bread in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom half.
- Layer the Ingredients: On the bottom half of the bread, layer the salami, ham, mortadella, and provolone cheese. Spread the olive salad evenly over the meats and cheese, and add pepperoncini if desired.
- Top and Press: Place the top half of the bread on the sandwich. Press down gently to compact the layers.
- Wrap and Refrigerate: Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.
- Serve: Slice the sandwich into wedges and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve with chips or a salad.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 10-12 servings
- Calories: 450kcal (per serving)
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g