Real N’Awlins Muffaletta Recipe: A Classic New Orleans Sandwich You Must Try
If you’re craving bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and an authentic taste of New Orleans, the Real N’Awlins Muffaletta is the sandwich you’ve been searching for. Originating from the heart of the Big Easy, this iconic creation is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Packed with cured meats, cheese, and a tangy olive salad, the Muffaletta is a true Southern classic that brings flavor with every bite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make the Real N’Awlins Muffaletta at home with step-by-step instructions, essential ingredients, and pro tips to capture that genuine Creole flavor.
🥪 What Is a Muffaletta?
The Muffaletta (pronounced muff-uh-LET-uh) is a legendary New Orleans sandwich, originally created by Italian immigrants in the early 1900s. Traditionally served on a round sesame loaf, it’s loaded with layers of Italian cold cuts, provolone or mozzarella cheese, and a savory olive salad that defines its unique taste.
🧄 Ingredients for the Real N’Awlins Muffaletta
For the Sandwich:
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1 large round muffaletta loaf or Italian round bread with sesame seeds
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1/4 lb Genoa salami
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1/4 lb mortadella or ham
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1/4 lb capicola (or pepperoni as an alternative)
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1/4 lb provolone cheese
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1/4 lb mozzarella cheese
For the Olive Salad:
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1 cup green olives, chopped
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1/2 cup black olives, chopped
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1/2 cup pickled giardiniera, chopped
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1/4 cup roasted red peppers, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tbsp capers
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
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1/2 cup olive oil
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2 tbsp red wine vinegar
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1 tsp oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
🧑🍳 How to Make the Real N’Awlins Muffaletta
Step 1: Make the Olive Salad
In a bowl, combine green and black olives, giardiniera, red peppers, garlic, capers, parsley, olive oil, vinegar, and oregano. Mix well and season with salt and pepper. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (overnight for best flavor).
Step 2: Prep the Bread
Slice the muffaletta bread horizontally. If the bread is thick, remove some of the inner crumbs to create space for fillings.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Spread half the olive salad on the bottom half of the bread. Layer with salami, mortadella, capicola, provolone, and mozzarella. Top with the remaining olive salad.
Step 4: Assemble and Press
Place the top half of the bread over the fillings. Wrap the sandwich tightly in foil or plastic wrap and press it down with a weight (like a skillet or heavy book) for at least 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Slice into quarters or wedges. Serve cold or warm it slightly in the oven for a melty twist.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Muffaletta
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Use fresh bakery bread with sesame seeds for authentic texture.
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Allow the olive salad to marinate overnight for maximum flavor.
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Make the sandwich a few hours ahead of time to let the juices soak into the bread.
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Add hot peppers or Creole mustard if you like a spicy kick.
🌆 A Taste of New Orleans at Home
The Real N’Awlins Muffaletta isn’t just a sandwich—it’s a celebration of New Orleans’ rich culture and Italian-American heritage. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekend gathering, Mardi Gras party, or a flavorful lunch, this sandwich will transport your taste buds straight to the French Quarter.
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