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Classic Italian Hero Sandwich with Salami and Provolone
This iconic sandwich is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring salty salami, melted provolone cheese, and fresh vegetables all piled high on crusty bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe brings the flavors of Italy to your table.
Ingredients:
– 1 long hero roll (or sub roll)
– 4 slices of salami
– 2 slices of provolone cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup of sliced red onion
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the salami into thin strips.
3. Assemble the sandwich by spreading a layer of olive oil on the bottom half of the bread, followed by a slice of salami, a slice of provolone cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley and onion.
4. Top with the remaining bread half.
5. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Hero with Caramelized Onions
Savor the flavors of Philadelphia with this classic cheesesteak sandwich, elevated by sweet and savory caramelized onions. This iconic comfort food is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced ribeye or top round steak
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred variety)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, season the steak with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled steak on a hoagie roll, followed by caramelized onions, garlic, and shredded cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Grilled Chicken Pesto Hero with Fresh Basil
Elevate your sandwich game with this flavorful and refreshing Grilled Chicken Pesto Hero, featuring crispy chicken, creamy pesto, and sweet fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 4 hero rolls
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breast.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hero rolls.
6. Spread pesto on each roll half.
7. Top with mixed greens, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
8. Slice the grilled chicken into thin strips.
9. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the chicken on top of the pesto mixture.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Avocado Club Hero with Bacon
Elevate your sandwich game with this mouthwatering combination of crispy bacon, juicy turkey, creamy avocado, and fresh lettuce. This Turkey and Avocado Club Hero is the perfect lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices whole wheat bread
– 2 oz cooked turkey breast
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 6 slices of crispy cooked bacon
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a pan or skillet over medium heat.
2. Cook the bacon until crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on two slices of bread, then topping with turkey, avocado, and mixed greens.
4. Place the remaining bread slices on top and add a few strips of crispy bacon.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for bacon)
Meatball Parmesan Hero with Marinara Sauce
Get ready to satisfy your Italian cravings with this mouthwatering meatball parmesan hero, smothered in rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 4 Italian-style hero rolls
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hero rolls by placing them on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes.
6. Assemble sandwiches by spreading marinara sauce on each roll, followed by a meatball and topped with mozzarella cheese.
7. Place sandwiches under broiler for 1-2 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roast Beef and Cheddar Hero with Horseradish Mayo
Roast Beef and Cheddar Hero with Horseradish Mayo Recipe
This classic sandwich is elevated by the tangy zip of horseradish mayonnaise, making it a perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb roast beef, thinly sliced
– 4 slices cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 hamburger buns
– Horseradish mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce and tomato (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Place the sliced roast beef on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the softened butter over the roast beef, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Roast the beef in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns by placing them on the baking sheet with the roast beef for the last 2 minutes of roasting time.
6. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading a layer of horseradish mayonnaise on each bun, followed by a slice of cheese and a few slices of roast beef.
7. Add lettuce and tomato if desired, then serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Veggie-loaded Hero with Hummus and Sprouts
A satisfying and healthy twist on the classic sandwich, packed with nutritious veggies, creamy hummus, and crunchy sprouts. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both filling and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole wheat hero bread
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup hummus
– 1 tablespoon sprouts (alfalfa or broccoli)
– 1 tablespoon shredded carrot
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread the hummus on one half of the hero bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with chickpeas, red bell pepper, cucumber, sprouts, and shredded carrot.
4. Place the other half of the bread on top to complete the sandwich.
5. Grill or press for 2-3 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the veggies are warmed through.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Hero with Blue Cheese Dressing
Elevate your sandwich game with this spicy and savory creation. Crispy chicken, creamy blue cheese dressing, and tangy buffalo sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 4 hero rolls
– 8 oz blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 head lettuce, chopped
– 1 tomato, sliced
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken and buffalo wing sauce. Mix well.
3. Split hero rolls in half and toast.
4. Assemble sandwiches by spreading blue cheese crumbles on the bottom bun, followed by lettuce, tomato, red onion, and chicken mixture.
5. Top with remaining bun.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ham and Swiss Hero with Honey Mustard
Elevate your lunch game with this sweet and savory twist on the classic sandwich. Thinly sliced ham, melted Swiss cheese, and a drizzle of honey mustard come together for a flavorful and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 oz thinly sliced ham
– 1 oz Swiss cheese, sliced
– 1 tbsp honey mustard
– Lettuce leaves, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Place one slice of bread on the press or grill.
3. Top with sliced ham and Swiss cheese.
4. Spread 1/2 tsp of honey mustard on top of the cheese.
5. Add lettuce leaves, if desired.
6. Place the second slice of bread on top.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Tuna Melt Hero with Pickles and Tomato
A classic sandwich gets a flavorful boost from the addition of pickles and tomato.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of diced pickle
– 1 medium tomato, sliced
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread mayonnaise on one slice of bread, then top with tuna, pickles, and tomato.
3. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
4. Add cheese and place in the preheated skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Hero with Coleslaw
A classic comfort food sandwich gets a delicious upgrade with tender pulled pork, tangy coleslaw, and crispy buns. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (store-bought or homemade)
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
3. Place pork in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker and cover with BBQ sauce.
4. Cook for 6-8 hours or until tender and easily shredded.
5. Split hamburger buns in half and toast.
6. Shred pork with two forks and pile onto toasted buns.
7. Top with coleslaw, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Caprese Hero with Fresh Mozzarella and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your caprese salad game with this easy-to-make Caprese Hero featuring fresh mozzarella, sweet balsamic glaze, and crisp basil. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the bread into thick rounds.
3. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Top each bread slice with a slice of mozzarella cheese, a few fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Reuben Hero with Sauerkraut and Thousand Island
A classic sandwich gets a flavorful boost from tangy sauerkraut and creamy Thousand Island dressing. This Reuben hero is perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons of butter, divided
– 1 pound corned beef, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons Thousand Island dressing
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on the grill.
4. Top with corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese.
5. Spread Thousand Island dressing on the other bread slices (buttered side up).
6. Place the dressed bread slices on top of the filling.
7. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lettuce leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Gyro Hero with Tzatziki Sauce
Savor the flavors of Greece with this mouthwatering Gyro Hero sandwich, served with a refreshing dollop of creamy Tzatziki sauce. This classic combination is sure to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb or beef gyro meat (homemade or store-bought)
– 4-6 pita breads
– 1/2 cup sliced red onion
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Tzatziki sauce (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the gyro meat into thin strips and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Warm the pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating them on the grill or in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
4. Assemble the Gyro Heroes by placing a few slices of gyro meat onto each pita bread, then topping with red onion, feta cheese, and parsley.
5. Serve immediately with a dollop of Tzatziki sauce.
Tzatziki Sauce Recipe:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cuban Hero with Roast Pork and Pickles
A classic Cuban sandwich elevated by the addition of juicy roast pork and tangy pickles.
Ingredients:
– 4 Cuban bread rolls (or similar)
– 8 oz roasted pork, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup dill pickle slices
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
– 1 tsp mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread roll.
3. Place two slices of roast pork on the unbuttered side of each roll.
4. Add two pickle slices on top of the pork.
5. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese over the pickles.
6. Spread a small amount of mustard on the buttered side of each roll.
7. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the buttered side down, then adding the remaining ingredients in that order (pork, pickles, cheese).
8. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Hero with Provolone
A flavorful twist on the classic Italian sub, this spicy sausage and pepper hero is packed with juicy sausage, sweet peppers, and melted provolone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Spicy Italian Sausage
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 slices Provolone cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add sliced peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, toast hoagie rolls on the oven rack for 2-3 minutes.
5. Assemble subs by placing cooked sausage and peppers onto toasted rolls, followed by a slice of Provolone cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
BLT Hero with Crispy Bacon and Mayo
Elevate your classic BLT game with the addition of crispy bacon and creamy mayonnaise, all wrapped up in a soft and fluffy hero bun.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 large lettuce leaves
– 2 juicy tomato slices
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 hero bun
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
2. Lay the bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each slice.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crispy, flipping halfway through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hero bun and prepare the lettuce and tomato.
5. Assemble the sandwich by spreading mayonnaise on the toasted bun, followed by a layer of bacon, lettuce, tomato, and finally another layer of bacon.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Hero with Garlic Aioli
A twist on the classic Italian-American favorite, this recipe adds a creamy garlic aioli to take your taste buds on a ride. Say goodbye to bland eggplant and hello to a flavorful fusion of textures.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 4 Italian hero rolls
– Garlic aioli (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip eggplant slices in tomato sauce, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place coated eggplant on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Assemble heroes by spreading garlic aioli on bottom bun, adding eggplant, mozzarella cheese, and top bun.
Garlic Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.
Chicken Caesar Hero with Romaine and Parmesan
Elevate your lunch game with this classic combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy Caesar dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 large hero roll
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the hero roll by placing it on a baking sheet and baking for 5 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Spread Caesar dressing evenly over the toasted roll.
6. Add chopped Romaine lettuce, crumbled bacon, and shaved Parmesan cheese on top of the dressing.
7. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and place on top of the salad.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pastrami and Swiss Hero with Spicy Mustard
A classic sandwich gets a kick from spicy mustard in this elevated take on the hero. Crunchy pastrami, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy mustard come together for a satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 4 oz pastrami, thinly sliced
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– Spicy mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Layer pastrami, Swiss cheese, and lettuce on each bread slice.
3. Spread spicy mustard on the top slice of bread.
4. Top with tomato slices and place the sandwich in the press or grill.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your sandwich game with these 20 delicious hero sandwich recipes! From classic Italian combinations to international twists, there’s something for every occasion. Enjoy a Philly cheesesteak with caramelized onions, a grilled chicken pesto sandwich with fresh basil, or a veggie-loaded option with hummus and sprouts. You’ll also find hearty options like roast beef and cheddar with horseradish mayo, and indulgent treats like tuna melt with pickles and tomato. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple or adventurous, these hero sandwiches have got you covered.
