As I set out to craft a lunch that would make my taste buds dance, I couldn’t help but think of that irresistible Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich. With its golden, crispy crust, this beauty reveals layers of creamy burrata and savory prosciutto, complemented by a peppery bite from fresh arugula. What I love most about this recipe is its incredible flexibility; you can customize it to suit any craving, whether you’re feeling adventurous or prefer the classics. Plus, it comes together in a snap—perfect for those busy days or when you want to impress your friends. So, are you ready to elevate your lunch game and dive into this delightful creation?

Why is Focaccia Sandwich a Must-Try?

Unforgettable Flavor: The harmonious blend of creamy burrata, savory prosciutto, and zesty pesto creates a flavor explosion that is truly Italian.

Endless Customization: Feel free to experiment with ingredients—transform it into a vegan delight using avocado, or spice it up with pepperoncini for a kick!

Quick Assembly: With simple steps, you can whip this sandwich together in no time, making it a brilliant choice for lunch or dinner.

Crowd-Pleasing Dish: This sandwich is sure to impress guests, especially when paired with Hal’s NY Backyard BBQ Chips for a crunchy side!

Fresh and Fun: Using freshly-made focaccia and vibrant greens adds an invigorating element to your meal, sure to revive your palate.

With so many reasons to love it, the Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen!

Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich Ingredients

For the Focaccia

Focaccia – Look for fresh focaccia about 1 inch thick with a slightly crispy crust for the best sandwich base.

For the Spreads

Pesto Sauce – Spread a thin layer to avoid sogginess while adding an aromatic basil flavor.

For the Main Filling

Burrata Cheese – Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before assembly for optimal creaminess.
Prosciutto – Opt for thinly sliced prosciutto to ensure even distribution of its savory, salty goodness.
Salami – Use thin slices for a harmonious layer that complements the richness of the prosciutto.

For the Crunch

Arugula – Lightly drizzle with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance its peppery flavor before adding for a fresh crunch.
Olive Oil – Choose high-quality extra virgin for drizzling to elevate flavors even more.
Hal’s NY Backyard BBQ Chips (optional) – Add just before serving for maximum crispiness and a delightful side kick.

Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the ultimate Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich, promising a delightful experience that you won’t forget!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

Step 1: Slice the Focaccia
Using a serrated knife, carefully cut the fresh focaccia in half lengthwise. Aim for a clean, even cut to create a sturdy base for your sandwich. The focaccia should be about 1 inch thick, with a slightly crispy crust, ready to hold all the flavorful fillings to come.

Step 2: Spread the Pesto
On the cut side of the bottom half of the focaccia, spread a thin, even layer of pesto sauce. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to achieve an even coating, ensuring it reaches the edges. This step adds a delightful herbaceous flavor while helping to prevent the focaccia from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Add the Burrata
Take the burrata cheese that has been sitting at room temperature for 30 minutes, and tear it into bite-sized pieces. Layer the creamy burrata generously over the pesto, leaving no bare spots. As you place it, enjoy the luxurious texture and the way it will meld with the other ingredients.

Step 4: Layer the Meats
Now it’s time to add the meats! Begin by placing slices of prosciutto evenly over the burrata, followed by an even layer of salami. Make sure the slices overlap slightly for a rich, savory experience in every bite. The combination of prosciutto and salami will enhance the classic Italian flavor profile of your focaccia sandwich.

Step 5: Add the Arugula
Gently pile fresh arugula on top of the meat layers. To enhance its flavor, lightly drizzle the arugula with high-quality olive oil, then season it with salt and pepper. This step adds a peppery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy burrata and savory meats of the Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich.

Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Carefully place the top half of the focaccia back onto the sandwich. Gently press down to secure the layers, making sure everything holds together without squishing the fillings. You want to maintain a nice balance between the textures while ensuring each layer stays intact.

Step 7: Slice and Serve
Finally, using the serrated knife, cut the assembled sandwich into portions. Serve immediately so that the sandwich remains fresh and flavorful. For an extra crunch, accompany your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich with a side of Hal’s NY Backyard BBQ Chips, enhancing the delightful experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwiches are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weekdays! You can prep the focaccia, pesto, and meats up to 24 hours in advance by storing them separately in the refrigerator. Simply slice the focaccia and layer on the pesto and meats, keeping the burrata and arugula separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, assemble the sandwich with the creamy burrata and fresh arugula, drizzle with olive oil, and season. This way, you’ll have a delicious sandwich that’s just as satisfying as if you’d made it fresh that day!

What to Serve with Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

Imagine a delightful spread that creates a symphony of flavors and textures to perfectly complement your focaccia sandwich; let’s explore these tasty pairings!

Crispy Sea Salt Chips: Their crunch counterbalances the sandwich’s softness, making each bite an adventure in texture.
Zesty Italian Salad: Lightly dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, this salad adds freshness and acidity, enhancing the rich flavors of the sandwich.
Creamy Tomato Soup: A warm bowl provides comforting flavors that play well with the creamy burrata, creating a nostalgic experience reminiscent of childhood lunches.
Roasted Vegetable Platter: Caramelized veggies like bell peppers and zucchini introduce sweetness and earthiness, providing a lovely contrast to your savory sandwich.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness harmonizes beautifully with the saltiness of prosciutto, creating a delicious balance that excites the palate.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing, fizzy drink with a hint of citrus refreshes your taste buds in between bites of the rich sandwich, elevating the whole meal experience.

Enjoying these delightful sides alongside your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich will transform your meal into something truly memorable!

How to Store and Freeze Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich immediately for the best taste and texture. If left out, it can stay fresh for up to 2 hours.
Fridge: If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing too much flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the sandwich and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. You can freeze the sandwich for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To enjoy your sandwich again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, typically about 10-15 minutes.

Expert Tips for Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich

Burrata Bliss: Let burrata sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to achieve a creamy, spreadable texture that elevates your sandwich.
Avoid Sogginess: Use a light hand when spreading pesto; too much can make the focaccia soggy. Consider using a thin layer for the best results.
Fresh Focaccia: Ensure your focaccia is fresh, ideally homemade or from a good bakery, to maintain the right texture and flavor. Stale bread can ruin your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich.
Layering Wisely: For balanced flavors, layer meats like prosciutto and salami evenly. Overlapping slices ensures every bite is flavorful without overwhelming the sandwich.
Greens with a Kick: Drizzle arugula with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding it to the sandwich. This will prevent it from wilting and enhance its peppery crunch.
Crisp Finish: If you prefer a crunchy bite, add Hal’s NY Backyard BBQ Chips just before serving, enhancing the texture and adding an exciting flavor contrast.

Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich Variations

Feel encouraged to get creative with your Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich—it’s all about making it your own!

Dairy-Free: Replace burrata with creamy avocado or a vegan cheese alternative for a rich, plant-based option.
Lean and Light: Swap out the prosciutto for sliced turkey or grilled chicken. This will give you a lighter, yet satisfying sandwich.
Mediterranean Twist: Add roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts for a vibrant and flavorful Mediterranean flair. Combining these elements brings a delightful zest to every bite.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh basil or spinach alongside arugula to brighten flavors and add a herbaceous freshness that pops!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle some pepperoncini or jalapeños into the mix for a bold and zesty flavor boost. This twist is perfect for those who like a little heat!
Flavorful Spread: Replace the pesto with hummus to introduce a creamy, tangy element that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Extra Crunch: Add crispy fried onions on top of the arugula for an irresistible texture contrast, providing an unexpected crunch that elevates the sandwich experience.

Looking for more delicious sandwich ideas? Check out these classic recipes for inspiration: Italian Beef Sandwiches, Egg Salad Sandwich, or indulge in something sweet with Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches.

Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich Recipe FAQs

What type of focaccia should I use for the sandwich?
I recommend looking for fresh focaccia that is about 1 inch thick with a slightly crispy crust. This provides a sturdy base that can hold all your delicious fillings and ensures your sandwich maintains its structure.

How should I store leftover Focaccia Sandwich?
If you have leftovers, wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that the longer it sits, the softer it may get, but still tastes delightful!

Can I freeze the Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the sandwich into individual portions, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my focaccia sandwich turns out soggy?
If you find your sandwich is soggy after assembly, ensure to use a light hand with the pesto. If you try again and encounter sogginess, consider sprinkling a thin layer of breadcrumbs on the pesto layer next time. This absorbs any excess moisture and keeps your sandwich delightfully fresh.

Is this sandwich suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
You can easily customize the Classic Italian Focaccia Sandwich to suit various dietary needs. For a dairy-free option, swap the burrata with avocado or a vegan cheese. If you’re avoiding gluten, use a gluten-free focaccia or wrap the fillings in lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy alternative!

How can I enhance the flavor when storing for later?
To maintain the flavors when prepping ahead, store the components separately if possible. Keep the focaccia, pesto, and meats in separate containers in the fridge, and assemble the sandwich just before serving. This helps to keep the textures fresh and the flavors vibrant!