Let’s be real—subs are basically the superheroes of the sandwich world. Whether you’re making a classic Italian sub or a simple turkey and cheese, the bread can make or break your sandwich experience. But what happens when you’re out of white bread or you’re looking for a healthier or tastier option? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some killer sub white bread options that will make your taste buds sing.
In this post, we’ll walk through everything from the best bread choices for your sub to some handy FAQs about white bread. Let’s dive in (okay, maybe not literally—we’re talking bread, not a pool)!
Why White Bread Is Popular for Subs
White bread is soft, fluffy, and neutral in flavor, making it the perfect base for a sub sandwich. It’s got just the right amount of chewiness to soak up all the juicy toppings without turning into a soggy mess. Plus, white bread typically has a mild sweetness that balances out salty deli meats and tangy sauces.
That being said, sometimes you want (or need) something different—whether for health reasons or because you ran out of white bread and don’t feel like running to the store. No shame in that!
Top 7 Substitutes for White Bread in Subs
1. Whole Wheat Sub Rolls
Whole wheat bread is a hearty alternative that brings a slightly nutty flavor to the table. It’s packed with more fiber and nutrients than white bread, which can help keep you full longer.
Why it works: Whole wheat holds up well to heavy fillings and adds a rustic vibe to your sandwich.
Perfect for: Turkey avocado subs, veggie-packed subs, or anything with a creamy sauce.
2. Ciabatta Rolls
If you’re looking for something that feels gourmet but isn’t fussy, ciabatta is where it’s at. This Italian bread is airy inside with a slightly crispy crust.
Why it works: The open, bubbly texture absorbs oils and dressings beautifully, and the crust adds a nice crunch.
Perfect for: Italian deli subs, grilled chicken subs, and anything with pesto or olive oil.
3. Sourdough Rolls
Sourdough is a great option when you want a bit of tang in your bread. It’s made with a natural fermentation process that gives it a slightly sour taste and a chewy texture.
Why it works: The unique flavor profile of sourdough pairs well with savory ingredients like cured meats and sharp cheeses.
Perfect for: Roast beef subs, ham and Swiss, or anything with pickled veggies.
4. French Baguettes
A French baguette is crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a solid option for sub sandwiches when you want a sturdier bite.
Why it works: The crust gives your sandwich structure, while the soft interior provides a nice balance.
Perfect for: Steak and cheese subs, meatball subs, or anything saucy.
5. Brioche Buns
Brioche is soft, rich, and slightly sweet, thanks to its high butter and egg content.
Why it works: It’s indulgent and soft without being too weak to hold up to your fillings.
Perfect for: Breakfast subs, pulled pork subs, and chicken salad sandwiches.
6. Multigrain Rolls
Bakers mix grains and seeds to make multigrain bread, giving it a hearty texture and earthy flavor.
Why it works: The grains add extra crunch and flavor, and it’s a nutritious swap if you’re watching your carb intake.
Perfect for: Turkey cranberry subs, veggie subs, or any sandwich where you want a little extra crunch.
7. Gluten-Free Sub Rolls
For anyone with gluten sensitivities, gluten-free rolls are a lifesaver. These are typically made with alternative flours like rice, almond, or tapioca flour.
Why it works: You can still enjoy a sub without sacrificing taste or texture.
Perfect for: Any sub! Just make sure to find a brand that holds together well.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Sub Sandwich
- Toast the Bread: Lightly toasting your bread can give it extra strength to hold wet toppings like mayo, mustard, and dressings. Plus, toasted bread just tastes better.
- Layer Smart: Keep wetter ingredients (like tomatoes or pickles) toward the center of the sandwich to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
- Butter or Oil the Bread First: A light spread of butter or olive oil before adding your fillings can act as a barrier to keep moisture out.
Homemade White Bread Alternatives
If you’re feeling ambitious, making your own bread is a game-changer. A simple loaf of homemade white bread—or even an easy focaccia—can take your sub game to a whole new level.
Quick Recipe for Soft White Bread Substitute:
- Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 packet of yeast, 1 cup warm water, 1 tsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, 2 tbsp olive oil.
- Instructions: Combine yeast, water, and sugar until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Knead for 10 minutes, let it rise, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
This bread is soft, fluffy, and perfect for slicing into sub rolls.
Healthier Alternatives to Sub White Bread
If you’re trying to make smarter food choices, switching up your bread is a simple place to start. There are plenty of substitutes that add nutrition without sacrificing taste!
Whole Grain Sub Rolls for Extra Fiber
Whole grain sub rolls are a step up from regular whole wheat because they often include oats, flaxseeds, or quinoa for a boost of fiber and protein. These grains can give your sandwich an earthy, hearty flavor with an extra-crunchy bite.
Pro Tip: Toasting whole grain bread enhances its natural nuttiness and keeps it from crumbling under heavy fillings like BBQ chicken or pulled pork.
Low-Carb Substitutes
If you’re watching your carbs, consider using lettuce wraps or collard greens. These provide a crisp, fresh alternative that’s perfect for lighter subs like tuna salad or turkey and cheese.
Artisan Breads for a Gourmet Sub Experience
Sometimes, you want your sub to feel a little fancier. Artisans make breads with simple ingredients and bake them for that perfect balance of a crusty exterior and soft interior.
Focaccia: A Mediterranean Twist
Focaccia is an Italian flatbread that’s fluffy, olive oil-rich, and often flavored with herbs like rosemary. It adds a savory, slightly chewy layer to your sub and pairs well with Italian meats, grilled veggies, or fresh mozzarella.
Pretzel Rolls for a Salty Kick
Pretzel rolls have a golden-brown, salty crust and a soft center, making them a fun swap for traditional white bread. They’re ideal for hearty subs like sausage and peppers or roast beef and horseradish.
Quick Homemade Alternatives to Sub White Bread
If you’ve ever tasted freshly baked bread, you know there’s no going back! The good news? You don’t have to be a pro baker to whip up a simple bread substitute at home.
No-Knead Sub Rolls
For a beginner-friendly option, try making no-knead sub rolls. All you need is flour, water, yeast, and a little patience for it to rise. The result is a crusty exterior and a pillowy-soft interior perfect for layering meats and cheeses.
Flatbreads and Wraps
If you’re short on time, you can make quick flatbreads using simple ingredients like flour, water, and yogurt. They cook in a pan in just minutes and can be folded around your sub toppings for a fresh, portable meal.
FAQs About White Bread for Subs
What kind of bread is used for subs?
The most common bread for subs is a long, soft white roll. Some places, like Subway, also offer options like wheat, Italian herbs and cheese, and multigrain. The key is finding bread that’s sturdy enough to hold your fillings but still soft enough to bite into easily.
What is Subway white bread made of?
Subway’s white bread is made from enriched flour (wheat flour with added vitamins), water, sugar, yeast, and a blend of oils and conditioners to keep it soft and fresh. It’s designed to be light, fluffy, and slightly sweet.
What is the difference between white bread and regular bread?
“Regular” bread can refer to many types, but white bread is made from refined flour, where the bran and germ have been removed. This makes white bread softer and more neutral in flavor. Whole wheat or multigrain bread, on the other hand, contains the whole grain, making it denser and more nutritious.
How can I substitute white bread?
There are plenty of substitutes for white bread in subs! Ciabatta, sourdough, whole wheat, and multigrain rolls are great choices. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free sub rolls at your local grocery store. You can also get creative and use pita bread or tortillas to make a wrap instead of a traditional sub.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the bread you choose can take your sub sandwich to the next level. Whether you’re sticking with classic white bread or trying out something new like ciabatta or sourdough, the most important thing is to build a sandwich you love. And hey, if you find a new favorite bread along the way—bonus!
Next time you’re in sandwich-making mode, don’t be afraid to swap out white bread for something different. Your taste buds will thank you! Now go ahead, grab your favorite fillings, and make yourself a sub that’s worth bragging about.