The Works Sub Recipe

Preheat and prepare roll

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the sub roll lengthwise, keeping a hinge if you prefer. Lightly spread 1 tablespoon softened butter on the cut sides to encourage crisping.

Place the roll open-faced on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easier cleanup.

Spread the garlic spread evenly on both cut sides of the roll. Spoon the pizza sauce over the bottom half of the roll and spread to an even layer, leaving a 1/4" border at each end to avoid spilling when baking.

Cook ground beef (if not pre-cooked)

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 4 oz ground beef, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside.

Layer the meats in this order over the sauce: evenly distribute the cooked ground beef, then sprinkle the crumbled bacon, then arrange pepperoni slices in a single layer (they can overlap slightly).

Sauté vegetables (optional for softer texture)

If you prefer softer, more caramelized vegetables, heat 1 teaspoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms, onions, and green pepper. Sauté until the mushrooms release their liquid and the onions are translucent, about 4–6 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drain any excess moisture.

If you prefer the vegetables raw/crisper, simply distribute the raw sliced mushrooms, onions, and green peppers evenly over the meats.

Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over all toppings, covering to the edges of the sauce where possible. Sprinkle the dried oregano and red pepper flakes on top if using.

Place the assembled open-faced sub in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the bread are golden, about 8–12 minutes. For a crisper top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning.

Remove from oven. If you left the roll open-faced, close the top if desired (you can butter and warm it briefly under the broiler or in oven). Let the sandwich rest 1–2 minutes, then slice in half if serving, and serve hot.