A Flavor-Packed, Show-Stopping Classic From New Orleans with Italian Roots
If you’ve never had a Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich, you’re in for a flavor explosion that’ll have your taste buds dancing! Originally from New Orleans, this Italian-inspired sandwich is layered with cured meats, cheeses, and a zesty olive salad—stacked high in a round loaf of bread. It’s bold, briny, hearty, and absolutely unforgettable.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd, planning a picnic, or just craving something indulgent and different, this sandwich is your go-to. Plus, it’s super easy to prep in advance and slice up when ready. Let’s dive into making your very own giant muffaletta!
Why You’ll Love This Muffaletta
• Bold flavors in every bite
• Perfect make-ahead party food
• Customizable fillings to match your favorites
• Impressive presentation for gatherings
What Is a Muffaletta Sandwich?
The Muffaletta (sometimes spelled muffuletta) was created by Sicilian immigrants in New Orleans. Traditionally served cold or at room temperature, it features:
• Round Italian or Sicilian bread
• An olive tapenade or salad
• Layers of deli meats: salami, mortadella, capicola
• Cheese: provolone and mozzarella
The giant version is especially fun because you can slice it like a cake, making it a total crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Olive Salad:
• 1 cup green olives, chopped
• 1 cup black olives, chopped
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
• 1/4 cup pepperoncini, chopped
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt & pepper to taste
For the Sandwich:
• 1 large round Italian loaf (or muffaletta bread)
• 1/4 lb Genoa salami
• 1/4 lb capicola or ham
• 1/4 lb mortadella
• 1/4 lb provolone cheese
• 1/4 lb mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step: How To Make Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich
1. Make the Olive Salad
In a bowl, combine all olive salad ingredients. Mix well and let sit for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, in the fridge. This is key—the longer it marinates, the better!
2. Prepare the Bread
Slice your round loaf horizontally. Scoop out a bit of the inner bread to make room for all the fillings. Brush the cut sides lightly with olive oil or some juice from the olive salad for extra flavor.
3. Start Layering
Begin with half the olive salad on the bottom half of the bread. Then layer:
• Salami
• Capicola or ham
• Mortadella
• Provolone
• Mozzarella
Top it off with the rest of the olive salad.
4. Press and Chill
Place the top half of the bread over the fillings. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap. Place a heavy object (like a cast iron pan or books) on top to press it down. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
5. Slice and Serve
Once chilled and compacted, unwrap and slice the sandwich into wedges. Serve it at room temperature for the best flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Muffaletta Ever
• Use quality deli meats and cheeses—they make a huge difference.
• Don’t skip the resting time—this helps meld all the flavors.
• Great for meal prep—make it the night before and serve it stress-free!
• Vegetarian? Sub in grilled eggplant, zucchini, and roasted peppers instead of meats.
What Bread Works Best?
Ideally, use Sicilian-style muffaletta bread. But a large round Italian loaf, ciabatta round, or even focaccia works wonderfully. Just be sure the bread is sturdy enough to hold all that goodness!
Perfect Occasions to Serve a Giant Muffaletta
• Game day or Super Bowl party
• Family picnics
• Potlucks
• Holiday buffets
• Lunch prep for the week
Pair It With…
• Iced sweet tea or a crisp lager
• A side of kettle chips or pickles
• A fresh side salad or coleslaw
Make It Pinterest-Worthy!
Want to turn this post into a viral hit? Snap a beautiful image of your sliced giant muffaletta, showing off those colorful layers, and pin it with one of these optimized descriptions:
Final Bite
Once you make your first Giant Muffaletta Italian Sandwich, you’ll realize why it’s such a staple in New Orleans and a beloved crowd-pleaser everywhere. It’s the perfect combo of tangy, savory, salty, and hearty—with that satisfying crunch from the olive salad. Trust me, one slice just won’t be enough!