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Viral Italian Sandwich Mashup

Featured in Perfect Party Bites and Snack Recipes.

This viral sandwich combines the savory goodness of an Italian sub with the melty charm of grilled cheese. Piled high with meats, cheese, and a crispy, tangy topping for unmatched flavor.
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Mena
Updated on Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:18:20 GMT
Grinder Grilled Cheese Sandwich Pin it
Grinder Grilled Cheese Sandwich | delishdocket.com

The viral Grinder Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup that's been taking social media by storm. This sandwich transforms the classic Italian sub into a gooey, melty grilled cheese experience, complete with a bright, crunchy topping that elevates it beyond ordinary sandwich territory.

The first time I made this sandwich, my kitchen filled with the most amazing aroma of toasting parmesan and garlic. My family gathered around as I lifted the perfectly golden-brown creation from the skillet, and it's been a regular request ever since.

Essential Ingredients

  • Sourdough Bread: Its sturdy texture and slight tanginess create the perfect foundation
  • Deli Meats: A combination of turkey, salami, and pepperoni provides layers of flavor
  • Multiple Cheese Types: Sharp provolone pairs with melty havarti for the ultimate cheese pull
  • Fresh Parmesan: Crucial for both the exterior crust and salad topping
  • Red Wine Vinegar: The key to that signature tangy dressing
  • Fresh Vegetables: Crisp iceberg lettuce and banana peppers add essential crunch and brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:
Create the Parmesan Spread: Mix softened butter with freshly grated parmesan and garlic powder until well combined
Step 2:
Assemble with Care: Layer cheeses and meats strategically for optimal melting
Step 3:
Grill Low and Slow: Cook on medium-low heat for 5-6 minutes per side for perfect melt
Step 4:
Prepare the Topping: Whisk dressing ingredients while sandwich cooks
Step 5:
Final Assembly: Add the cold, crisp topping just before serving

Growing up in an Italian-American household, I learned the importance of quality ingredients in sandwiches. The parmesan we use must be freshly grated - it's a non-negotiable rule passed down through generations.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Prepare sandwiches up to the grilling stage and store wrapped in foil
  • Keep grinder salad components separate until serving
  • Dressing stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

Chef's Notes and Final Thoughts

  • Always grate cheese fresh for optimal melting
  • Let sandwich rest 1-2 minutes before adding cold toppings
  • Press gently while grilling for even cheese distribution

After countless iterations and family taste tests, this grinder grilled cheese has earned its place in our regular rotation. It's more than just a sandwich - it's a perfect example of how simple ingredients, properly prepared, can create something truly extraordinary.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes a grinder salad unique?
A grinder salad combines shredded lettuce, onions, and banana peppers in a tangy, creamy Italian-style dressing, adding a refreshing crunch to sandwiches.
→ Can I use any type of bread?
Yes, you can. Hoagie rolls, crusty Italian bread, or any bread that holds up well when grilled will work great.
→ What cheese works best for this recipe?
A variety of cheeses is the way to go. Try pairing sharp provolone for flavor with gooey havarti or mozzarella for the ultimate melt.
→ Can I prepare these sandwiches in advance?
Yes, you can prep the sandwich components ahead of time. Store the grinder salad separately and add it just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy.
→ Why use low heat for grilling?
Using a low heat setting allows the cheese to melt evenly without over-toasting or burning the bread.

Grinder Grilled Cheese

A deliciously creative mix of grilled cheese and Italian cold cuts, topped with a tangy grinder salad for a unique and unforgettable meal.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
10 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes
By: Mena


Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 2 Servings (2 sandwiches)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Sandwich

01 4 slices of sourdough bread (or your choice of hoagie rolls)
02 8-10 pieces of cheese slices (try havarti, gruyere, sharp cheddar, or mozzarella for the best results)
03 1 pound of deli cold cuts (a mix of turkey, ham, salami, and pepperoni works great)
04 5 tablespoons of softened butter
05 3 tablespoons of freshly grated parmesan cheese
06 ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder
07 1 small tomato, sliced (optional)

→ Grinder Salad Topping

08 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise
09 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
10 ¼ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese
11 ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder
12 ¾ teaspoon of Italian seasoning
13 ½ teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper
14 ½ head of iceberg lettuce, finely shredded
15 ¼ red onion, thinly sliced
16 ⅓ cup of chopped banana peppers

Instructions

Step 01

Combine softened butter with garlic powder and grated parmesan cheese. Spread this mixture evenly on the outside of each bread slice.

Step 02

Layer sliced cheese on a piece of bread, then stack the deli meats on top, followed by an additional layer of cheese. Optionally, add a third cheese layer between the cold cuts. Place the second slice of bread on top with the buttered side facing outward.

Step 03

Using a nonstick skillet, cook the sandwich over low heat until the bread turns golden and the cheese melts fully, which should take about 5-6 minutes per side. Flip carefully halfway through.

Step 04

In a large mixing bowl, blend mayonnaise, red wine vinegar, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and grated parmesan cheese until smooth.

Step 05

Toss the shredded lettuce, sliced onion, and chopped banana peppers into the dressing, coating the vegetables thoroughly.

Step 06

When the sandwich is finished grilling, open it up, and add as much grinder salad as you'd like. Add optional tomato slices before closing, slicing, and serving warm.

Notes

  1. For best results, add the grinder salad right before eating so it stays fresh.
  2. Inspired by a social media-famous recipe.
  3. Merges the satisfying flavors of an Italian sub with the comforting gooeyness of a grilled cheese.

Tools You'll Need

  • Nonstick skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Tongs

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (cheese, butter)
  • Contains wheat (bread)
  • Contains eggs (mayonnaise)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 576
  • Total Fat: 31 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 39 g
  • Protein: 32 g