italian sandwish bites

These Italian sandwich bites are crisp on the outside, soft in the middle, and packed with classic Mediterranean flavors. They are made with toasted mini rolls filled with savory meats, melted cheese, and herby olive oil, then baked until golden and irresistible. This is an easy, crowd-friendly recipe that feels special without being fussy. Total time is about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

For the bread

• 12 small dinner rolls or slider buns
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

For the filling

• 120 g salami, thinly sliced
• 120 g cooked ham or mortadella, thinly sliced
• 150 g mozzarella cheese, sliced or grated
• 60 g provolone cheese, sliced

For the topping

• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley

Method

Prepare the oven

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a medium baking tray with baking parchment and set aside.

Prepare the rolls

Slice the rolls in half horizontally, keeping them attached if possible. Place the bottom halves on the prepared tray.

Assemble the filling

Layer the salami and ham evenly over the rolls. Add the mozzarella and provolone, spreading everything so each bite gets a little of each filling. Place the top halves of the rolls back on.

Mix the topping

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, Parmesan, parsley, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Bake

Brush the topping generously over the rolls, making sure it seeps into the edges. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 12 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 6 to 8 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese has melted.

Cool and serve

Allow the sandwich bites to cool for 5 minutes, then slice into individual portions and serve warm.

Tips

How do I stop the rolls from going soggy

Lightly toast the cut sides of the rolls before assembling if your bread is very soft. This creates a barrier and keeps the texture perfect.

Can I make these ahead of time

You can assemble everything up to the baking stage, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Bake just before serving.

What cheese melts best for this recipe

Mozzarella gives stretch, while provolone adds flavor. You can swap provolone for fontina or mild cheddar if needed.

Serving suggestions

• Serve with a simple green salad and balsamic dressing
• Pair with marinara sauce for dipping
• Add roasted vegetables on the side for a fuller meal

Storage

Room temperature

These are best eaten fresh and should not be left out for more than 2 hours.

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

Freezing

Freeze fully baked and cooled bites for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 170°C until hot through.

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Sodium: 720 mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use different meats

Yes. Turkey, chicken, or even roasted vegetables work well if you want a lighter option.

Are these suitable for parties

Absolutely. They are easy to scale up and stay warm well, making them ideal for gatherings.

Can I make them without an oven

You can use an air fryer at 170°C for about 8 to 10 minutes, checking often.

What bread works best

Soft dinner rolls or slider buns work best because they absorb flavor without falling apart.