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Hot Roll Sandwiches Recipe

4.7 from 137 reviews

Hot Roll Sandwiches are a quick and easy crowd-pleasing meal featuring sub rolls slathered with a flavorful seasoned butter, layered with meats and cheeses, then baked to melty, golden perfection. Crispy on the outside and gooey inside, these sandwiches are customizable with various deli meats, cheeses, and fresh toppings like spinach or pickles. Ideal for parties, lunch, or casual dinners, they come together in just 25 minutes and offer endless variations to satisfy any taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Rolls and Butter Mixture

  • 4 large sub rolls (or 6 smaller sandwich rolls), sliced horizontally (but not completely)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

Sandwich Fillings

  • 8 slices provolone cheese (or Swiss, cheddar, or pepper jack)
  • ½ lb deli ham, thinly sliced (or turkey, roast beef, or salami)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup baby spinach or arugula (optional)
  • ½ cup sliced pickles or banana peppers (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the sub rolls horizontally but leave a hinge so they stay connected. In a small bowl, combine softened butter with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper to make a seasoned butter paste.
  2. Butter Up for Flavor: Use a pastry brush or spoon to spread the seasoned butter generously on the inside of each roll, including the edges. Place the buttered rolls butter-side up on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
  3. Layer the Good Stuff: Place a slice of provolone cheese on each roll half, followed by thinly sliced deli ham. Add optional baby spinach or pickles if desired. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top. Press the rolls gently to compact the fillings.
  4. Bake to Golden Perfection: Wrap the baking sheet tightly with foil to trap steam and bake for 10 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the rolls are golden and cheese is bubbly. Watch to prevent burning.
  5. Slice and Serve: Let the sandwiches cool for 2-3 minutes to avoid burns from hot cheese. Use a sharp knife to slice into individual portions. Serve warm with chips, extra pickles, or marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Butter alternatives: Swap half the butter for mayo mixed with garlic powder to add tang and help seasoning stick.
  • Crispy hack: Broil the sandwiches for 1-2 minutes after baking for extra crunch but watch closely.
  • Make-ahead: Assemble sandwiches (without baking) up to a day before and refrigerate wrapped until ready to bake.
  • Vegetarian option: Omit meat and fill with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
  • Cheese variations: Mix sharp cheddar with mozzarella or add cream cheese for richer flavor.
  • Reheating leftovers: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes; avoid microwave to prevent sogginess.
  • Frozen rolls: Thaw before use; if slightly cold, add 2-3 minutes extra baking time.
  • Prevent soggy bottoms by doubling cheese at the base or toasting rolls butter-side down briefly before assembling.
  • Air fryer option: Air fry at 350°F for 6-8 minutes, wrapped in foil for the first half, checking frequently.

Keywords: hot roll sandwiches, baked sandwiches, party food, easy sandwiches, melty cheese sandwich, sub sandwich recipe, garlic butter sandwich