The Pizza Sandwich from Potbelly Sandwich Shop features melted mozzarella and tangy marinara sauce layered with pepperoni and fresh herbs, all nestled between warm, toasted sandwich bread for a gooey, flavorful twist on classic pizza.
Equipments
- Oven or conveyor toaster
- Sandwich press or panini press
- Bread knife
- Ladle or sauce spoon
- Cheese slicer or shredder
- Cutting board
- Spatula
- Serving tray or sandwich wrap
Ingredients
- 6-inch sandwich roll or sub bread
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup marinara sauce
- 8-10 slices pepperoni
- Fresh basil leaves
- Butter or olive oil (for toasting)
Use fresh mozzarella cheese for the best melt and gooey texture in your Pizza Sandwich. Choose a sturdy 6-inch sandwich roll or sub bread that can hold up to the marinara sauce without becoming soggy. Fresh basil leaves add an aromatic, herbal layer that complements the pepperoni's spiciness perfectly. Butter or olive oil helps create a crispy, golden crust when toasting your sandwich with a panini press or oven. Your copycat Pizza Sandwich from Potbelly Sandwich Shop will deliver an authentic, flavorful twist on classic pizza with these essential ingredients.
Instructions
- Preheat oven or panini press.
- Slice the sandwich roll using a bread knife.
- Lightly butter or brush olive oil on the outside of the bread.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly on the inside of one half using a ladle or sauce spoon.
- Layer shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add 8-10 slices of pepperoni on top of the cheese.
- Place fresh basil leaves over the pepperoni.
- Close the sandwich with the other bread half.
- Place sandwich in oven, sandwich press, or conveyor toaster.
- Toast until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Remove sandwich and transfer to a cutting board.
- Slice the sandwich in half with a bread knife.
- Serve hot on a serving tray or wrap as desired.
Substitution
The Pizza Sandwich from Potbelly Sandwich Shop copycat recipe combines melted mozzarella, tangy marinara sauce, and pepperoni with fresh basil on toasted sandwich bread for a perfect blend of flavors. If you don't have mozzarella, provolone or a mild cheddar can work well as substitutes without overpowering the sandwich. When fresh basil is unavailable, dried Italian herbs or fresh spinach leaves add a similar aromatic touch. Use a panini press to achieve even toasting and melting, but a skillet or oven broiler can be alternative methods in your kitchen. Your sandwich will stay warm and gooey when wrapped in foil or placed in a low-temperature oven before serving.
Tips
When preparing your Pizza Sandwich, be sure to evenly spread marinara sauce to avoid soggy bread and ensure each bite is flavorful. Use freshly shredded mozzarella instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melt and richer texture. Lightly buttering or brushing olive oil on the bread's exterior before toasting helps achieve a crispy, golden crust. Remember to toast your sandwich until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden brown for the best gooey, flavorful experience.
Nutritions
The Pizza Sandwich from Potbelly Sandwich Shop provides a rich source of protein and calcium from the melted mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices. Marinara sauce adds antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin C and lycopene, supporting your immune system. The sandwich bread offers carbohydrates for energy, while fresh basil delivers essential micronutrients and antioxidants. You can enjoy a balanced meal that combines indulgent flavors with nutritional benefits, perfect for a satisfying lunch or snack.
Storage
Store your Pizza Sandwich in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil to maintain its freshness and prevent the mozzarella from drying out. Refrigerate the sandwich for up to 2 days and reheat in an oven or panini press to restore the melted cheese and toasted bread texture. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crispy and preserve the vibrant flavors of marinara sauce and fresh basil.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap pepperoni for spicy Italian sausage or roasted vegetables to customize the Pizza Sandwich to your taste. Try adding provolone or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Using garlic butter to toast the bread boosts the sandwich's aroma and richness. Opt for fresh oregano or thyme as an alternative to basil to experiment with herbal notes.
Allergies
Your Pizza Sandwich contains common allergens such as dairy from the mozzarella cheese and gluten from the sandwich bread. The pepperoni may also contain preservatives or spices that could trigger sensitivities in some individuals. Always check ingredient labels carefully if you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or processed meats.
Why this recipe?
Potbelly Sandwich Shop's Pizza Sandwich combines the savory flavors of melted cheese, tangy pizza sauce, and Italian seasonings on freshly baked bread, creating a unique twist that appeals to pizza and sandwich lovers alike. The warm, gooey texture paired with crisp veggies and quality meats delivers a satisfying, crave-worthy meal that stands out among typical sandwich options. Making a copycat version allows you to customize ingredients to suit your taste preferences while saving money on frequent orders. Your homemade Pizza Sandwich captures the restaurant's iconic blend of comfort food and convenience in your own kitchen.