Kmart Submarine Sandwich-A Classic Deli-Style Sub That Tastes Like Childhood Wrapped in Plastic

Introduction

If you grew up in the heyday of Kmart, you probably remember the smell of popcorn, the thrill of blue light specials—and the unmistakable taste of their deli submarine sandwiches. Wrapped tightly in plastic and tucked into the refrigerated case, these subs were a treat that felt both indulgent and comforting.

This Copycat Kmart Submarine Sandwich recreates that iconic flavor with layers of deli meats, American cheese, crisp veggies, and a generous swipe of yellow mustard—all nestled inside a soft hoagie roll and wrapped to let the flavors meld. It’s a sandwich that’s simple, satisfying, and steeped in nostalgia.

Ingredients

To make 4 sandwiches, you’ll need:

Bread & Condiments

4 soft submarine rolls (Sarah Lee White Soft Split if available)
¼ cup French’s yellow mustard

Meats & Cheese

8 slices peppercorn salami (2 per sandwich)
4 slices Oscar Mayer bologna (1 per sandwich)
4 slices Oscar Mayer honey-roasted ham (1 per sandwich)
4 slices Kraft American cheese (1 per sandwich)

Veggies

¼ onion, sliced sliver-thin
½ oz shredded iceberg lettuce
2 tomatoes, sliced ⅛-inch thick
1 dill pickle, sliced sliver-thin
Optional: 1 oz mild banana pepper rings (for a tangy twist—not part of the original, but tasty!)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Slice onions and pickles as thinly as possible.
Slice tomatoes into thin rounds.
Shred lettuce finely.
Cut meats and cheese in half for better layering.

Step 2: Build the Sandwich

Slice each sub roll lengthwise, keeping the hinge intact.
Spread yellow mustard in a wide “V” shape on both the top and bottom halves.

Layer from bottom to top:

Ham
Bologna
Salami
American cheese
Tomato slices
Onion slivers
Pickle slices
Shredded lettuce

Step 3: Wrap and Rest

Close the sandwich gently.
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 1–2 hours to let the flavors meld.

Tips for Success

Use Oscar Mayer meats and Kraft cheese for the most authentic flavor.
Wrap tightly—this step is key to recreating the original taste.
Serve cold—just like they did at the Kmart deli counter.
Slice meats in half to fit the roll without folding.
Don’t overload—balance is what made the original so craveable.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a bag of Lay’s chips and a frozen Coke for the full retro experience.
Serve with potato salad or coleslaw for a picnic-ready lunch.
Add to a party tray with other nostalgic bites like deviled eggs and mini fruit cups.
Slice into thirds for easy sharing at potlucks or reunions.

Variations to Try

Spicy Kick: Add banana peppers or a dash of hot sauce.
Italian Twist: Swap American cheese for provolone and add Italian dressing.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based deli slices and cheese.
Toasted Option: Lightly toast the roll before assembling for a warm crunch.
Mini Subs: Use slider rolls for bite-sized party sandwiches.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Refrigerate wrapped sandwiches for up to 2 days.
Make ahead for parties—just add lettuce and tomato fresh before serving.
Avoid freezing—the texture of the veggies and bread won’t hold up.

Behind the Recipe

This sandwich is more than just lunch—it’s a memory. From the soft bread to the peppery salami and the unmistakable tang of yellow mustard, every bite brings back the feeling of walking through Kmart with your family, picking out toys, and grabbing a sub on the way out. It’s a simple recipe, but one that carries a lot of heart.

Conclusion

This Kmart Submarine Sandwich is a delicious blast from the past. With its classic layers, crisp veggies, and signature mustard spread, it’s a sandwich that’s easy to make and impossible to forget. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or discovering it for the first time, this sub is sure to become a favorite.