If you crave the classic Subway Italian B.M.T., this copycat Italian BMT sandwich brings that iconic deli experience straight to your kitchen. Packed with mortadella, Genoa salami, spicy salami, creamy provolone, and crisp veggies, it captures the savory, tangy flavor of the restaurant favorite - but made with quality ingredients for a more flavorful, authentic result.
As a cookbook author and professional recipe developer, I love recreating classic restaurant favorites with simple, high-quality ingredients.
This one is quick, easy and seriously packed with flavor. Whether you're making it for yourself for a quick lunch or someone else, this Italian classic sandwich is a total upgrade from your usual lineup.
This sandwich was made popular by the Subway Italian B.M.T., but my version is way more delicious! You can find all of the ingredients at your local Italian deli or grocery store, and make multiple sandwiches for the price of one take out sub.
If you are looking for more sandwich recipes, try our: Roast Beef Sliders, Air Fried Chicken Sandwiches, Grinder Sandwich Recipe, or Pinwheel Sandwiches.
Jump to:
- How This Sandwich Compares to the Subway Italian B.M.T.
- Why We Love This Recipe
- Ingredients
- What Meats Are in a Classic Italian B.M.T.?
- Instructions
- The Secret to a Great Italian Sub
- Expert Tips and Tricks
- Kitchen Equipment
- Substitutions and Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Recipe Storage and Reheating
- Other Recipes to Try
- Pairing
- Classic Italian BMT Sandwich Recipe
How This Sandwich Compares to the Subway Italian B.M.T.
- This version uses fresh Italian deli meats, not pre-wrapped supermarket cuts.
- You can adjust meat ratios to taste - unlike a set sandwich shop order.
- Fresh veggies and seasoning make the flavor brighter and more authentic than most fast-food versions.
- You control bread style and crunch - soft roll or toasted.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Authentic Deli Flavor: Layers of mortadella, Genoa salami, and spicy salami mirror the classic Subway Italian B.M.T. experience.
- Simple Assembly: No cooking required - stack and dress for a perfect lunch or dinner.
- Customizable: Swap meats, add banana peppers or pickles, or toast for a warm, melty version.
- Fresh Texture: Crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and red onion add balance to rich meats and cheese.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for this Italian sub:
- Bread: Use an Italian sandwich roll. Look for a roll with a soft interior and a slightly crusty exterior, like a hoagie or ciabatta, to hold all the ingredients without getting soggy.
- Mayonnaise: Mayo provides a delicious creaminess in this sandwich. If you don't like mayonnaise, simply omit it, or substitute it out with your favorite mustard.
- Lettuce: Use romaine lettuce leaves for the best crunch. You can also add a variety of vegetables if you'd like; bell peppers, cucumbers, or pickles would all be delicious.
- Tomato: I like thinly sliced Roma tomatoes on this sandwich. Use your favorite tomato or whatever you have on hand!
- Red onion: Slice the onions thin for a classic sandwich shop texture.
- Provolone: I always buy deli sliced provolone cheese when I can. I love the freshness and taste!
- Mortadella (Optional!): I recommend an imported mortadella from Italy. Most Italian grocery stores will have this behind the deli counter.
- Genoa salami: Genoa salami has delicious texture
- Spicy salami: You can also use spicy pepperoni if you can't find spicy salami!
- Oil & vinegar: A mix of extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar works perfectly for a traditional Italian flavor. Adjust the ratio to your taste.
- Italian seasoning: This blend usually includes oregano, basil and thyme. You can also sprinkle on some crushed red pepper for extra spice. If you only have a few Italian herbs on hand, feel free to use those instead of a seasoning blend.
See recipe card below for quantities.
What Meats Are in a Classic Italian B.M.T.?
A traditional Italian B.M.T. includes:
- Mortadella
- Genoa salami
- Spicy salami (or pepperoni)
For the best flavor, ask your deli to slice the meats thin. Thin slices fold beautifully and create that classic deli-style texture.
Instructions
Let's make this sandwich together!
- Step 1: Slice the sandwich roll in half and spread mayonnaise on the bottom half.
- Step 2: Layer the lettuce, tomato slices and red onion on top of the mayo.
- Step 3: Add the provolone cheese, then layer the mortadella, Genoa salami and spicy salami.
- Step 4: Drizzle with oil and vinegar, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Step 5: Close the sandwich and slice in half.
- Step 6: Serve and enjoy!
The Secret to a Great Italian Sub
The classic oil-and-vinegar drizzle makes all the difference.
Use good quality olive oil, red wine vinegar, a pinch of oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper.
It elevates the sandwich from basic to deli-quality.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to make this simple Italian BMT:
- Add banana peppers for heat
- Spread a thin layer of mayo for richness
- Layer lettuce on the bottom to prevent soggy bread
- Let the sandwich rest for 5 minutes before slicing so flavors meld
Kitchen Equipment
Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this recipe. You can find all of these products on Amazon.
- Sharp knife - You'll want to use a sharp knife to cut the sandwich in half.
- Cutting board - I love this cutting board for a variety of recipes in my kitchen.
Substitutions and Variations
Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this favorite sandwich.
- Italian sandwich roll: Swap the sandwich roll for ciabatta, a baguette, or even a wrap for a different texture and flavor. You can also use a gluten-free roll if needed.
- Meats: If you prefer a milder sandwich, try swapping the spicy salami for regular salami or even capicola. Turkey or chicken breast are lighter options if you're looking for a leaner alternative. You can really use any meat that you have on hand. Black Forest ham, roast beef, or any other deli meat would be delicious on this popular sandwich.
- Provolone: Instead of provolone, try mozzarella, Swiss or sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Romaine lettuce: Swap romaine lettuce for arugula or spinach for a peppery bite.
- Mayonnaise: Instead of mayo, try using pesto, aioli or mustard for a different spread.
- Additions: Add roasted red peppers, cucumber slices, green peppers or even pickles for extra crunch on this flavorful sandwich. A drizzle of balsamic glaze would add a sweet and tangy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
B.M.T. originally stood for Big. Meaty. Tasty. at Subway, referring to the generous portion of meats used in the sandwich.Â
Yes - prepare the meats and veggies ahead, but add the oil and vinegar right before eating to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Traditional BMT combinations include mortadella, Genoa salami, and a spicy salami or pepperoni. You can also add capicola or ham for more variety.
Recipe Storage and Reheating
Here are storage and reheating instructions for this sandwich.
- Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover sandwich wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil in the fridge for up to 1 day, but note that the bread may become softer over time.
- Freezer Storage: Freezing is not recommended for this sandwich, as the bread can become soggy and the fresh vegetables may not hold up well after thawing.
Other Recipes to Try
Looking for other recipes? Try these:
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Italian BMT:
Classic Italian BMT Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Italian sandwich roll
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 3 romaine lettuce leaves
- 4 tomato slices
- 8 red onion slices
- 3 slices provolone cheese
- 3 slices mortadella
- 4 slices genoa salami
- 4 slices spicy salami
- Dash oil and vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Slice the bread in half. Spread the mayo on the bottom of the roll.
- Add the lettuce, tomato, and onion on the bottom of the roll.
- Top with cheese, then layer the meats. Add a dash of oil and vinegar and Italian seasoning, then close the bread. Slice in half and serve.
Did You Make This Recipe?
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