If you’re looking to wow your taste buds with a dish that’s bursting with bold Italian flavors and comforting textures, the Slow Cooker Italian Ham, Salami, and Provolone Sandwiches Recipe is an absolute game changer. This recipe combines the hearty smokiness of ham and the spicy kick of salami with creamy provolone cheese, all slow-cooked to perfection so that every bite melts together beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a satisfying sandwich that feels homemade without hours in the kitchen, this is the recipe you’ll want to have on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun and ensures each sandwich shines with authentic Italian flair. These simple but essential components work together to create a mouthwatering balance of savory, melty, and fresh flavors, bringing both texture and color to your plate.
- Italian ham: Thinly sliced to add rich, smoky depth with just the right saltiness.
- Salami: Provides a spicy, peppery punch that perfectly complements the ham.
- Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully to create creamy, gooey goodness.
- Italian hoagie rolls: Soft on the inside with a slight crunch outside, perfect for holding all the fillings.
- Italian dressing: Adds tang and herbs to tie all the flavors together.
- Butter: For toasting the sandwiches, enhancing crispiness and flavor.
- Garlic powder and dried oregano: Sprinkle for an extra punch of classic Italian seasoning.
How to Make Slow Cooker Italian Ham, Salami, and Provolone Sandwiches Recipe
Step 1: Layer the Meats and Cheese
Start by layering your slow cooker with generous slices of Italian ham and zesty salami. Add thick slices of provolone cheese on top so they have plenty of time to melt as everything cooks together. This layering is key—getting it right ensures every bite delivers that perfect blend of meaty and cheesy deliciousness.
Step 2: Add the Italian Dressing and Seasonings
Pour your favorite Italian dressing over the layered meats and cheese, letting it soak in overnight if you have time. The dressing adds brightness and helps tenderize the sandwich ingredients while infusing them with vibrant herbs and spices. Don’t forget to sprinkle garlic powder and dried oregano for an authentic touch that will have your kitchen smelling irresistible.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your slow cooker to low and let those flavors marry for about 4 hours. This slow cooking allows the salami and ham’s fatty goodness to infuse into the cheese and bread, creating a sandwich filling that’s juicy, hearty, and packed with flavor. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, so even busy days can end with a luxurious meal.
Step 4: Prepare the Rolls
While the filling is cooking, slice your hoagie rolls and lightly toast them with butter. This buttery toast adds a golden crunch that holds up to the slow-cooked filling, delivering a wonderful contrast between crispy bread and melty insides.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the slow cooker finishes, scoop the savory mixture onto the toasted rolls. The cheese will be beautifully melted, and the meats will be tender and flavorful. For extra flair, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few pepperoncini for a slight tangy crunch.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Italian Ham, Salami, and Provolone Sandwiches Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate the sandwiches visually and taste-wise. Try freshly chopped basil or parsley for a touch of green freshness. A few slices of banana peppers or pepperoncini add a delightful zing and a pop of color that contrasts perfectly with the melty cheese.
Side Dishes
Pair these hearty sandwiches with classic Italian sides such as a crisp Caesar salad, garlic Parmesan roasted potatoes, or even a bowl of comforting minestrone soup. Each option enhances the meal without overpowering the bold sandwich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the traditional? Serve these sandwiches open-faced atop a bed of mixed greens dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a lighter take. Alternatively, slice into smaller pinwheel-style bites for party platters or game-day treats that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sandwiches can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the meats and cheese layered but separating bread can prevent sogginess, so assemble just before reheating or serving again for best results.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwich filling (without the bread) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before assembling sandwiches.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat with a lid, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly without drying out the meats. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the bread soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely! While the slow cooker lends convenience and rich melding of flavors, you can assemble the sandwich mixture in a baking dish and warm it in the oven at 325°F for 20-30 minutes, covered, until everything is hot and melty.
What kind of salami works best?
Classic Genoa salami is perfect because it’s flavorful without being overpowering, but spicy or hard salamis can work well if you prefer a bit more kick. Just choose your favorite and enjoy the personalized spin on the sandwich.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
You can swap ham and salami with hearty grilled veggies like eggplant and roasted red peppers, or use plant-based deli slices. Provolone cheese adds richness, but you can also try vegan cheese if preferred.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Provolone is traditional for this sandwich, but mozzarella or fontina make wonderful substitutes if you want a milder or creamier cheese. Just make sure it melts well!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add sliced pepperoncini, a dash of red pepper flakes to the dressing, or swap out regular salami for a spicy variety. Even a drizzle of hot sauce right before serving amps up the heat in a tasty way.
Final Thoughts
Making the Slow Cooker Italian Ham, Salami, and Provolone Sandwiches Recipe is like giving yourself a big warm hug through food. It’s simple yet loaded with bold flavors and enough comfort to brighten any day. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover how slow cooking turns an ordinary sandwich into something spectacularly savory and utterly satisfying.
Print
Slow Cooker Italian Ham, Salami, and Provolone Sandwiches Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Description
This Slow-Cooker Chicken Chow Mein is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked chow mein noodles in a savory sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, and aromatic spices. The slow cooker effortlessly tenderizes the chicken and melds the flavors over several hours, making it a perfect hands-off weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Chicken and Meat
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs, diced
- 1 tablespoon avocado or olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup carrot sticks
- 2 cups thinly sliced green cabbage
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
Noodles
- 12 oz chow mein noodles, cooked and drained
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup oyster sauce
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package directions until tender, drain well, and set aside.
- Sear chicken: Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken thighs and cook for approximately 2 minutes per side to sear the meat, but do not fully cook. Remove from heat.
- Mix sauce: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, oyster sauce, low sodium soy sauce, chicken broth, honey, ground ginger, and ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to blend all flavors.
- Assemble in slow cooker: Place seared chicken, carrot sticks, sliced cabbage, and the prepared sauce mixture into the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 to 6 hours, until the vegetables are tender and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Thicken sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker, then continue cooking on high for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add noodles: Add the cooked chow mein noodles into the slow cooker and gently toss to combine and heat through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your flavorful slow-cooked Chicken Chow Mein!
Notes
- For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they remain tender and juicy during slow cooking.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure not to overcook the noodles initially to prevent them from becoming mushy when combined in the slow cooker.
- This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days with the noodles added just before serving.
- Adjust the honey or soy sauce levels to taste depending on your preference for sweetness or saltiness.
