Copycat Firehouse Subs Zesty Garlic Hook & Ladder Recipe – A Bold and Flavorful Twist!
The Firehouse Subs Zesty Garlic Hook & Ladder takes the classic Hook & Ladder sub and elevates it with bold garlic flavors, melted cheese, and savory meats. This delicious sandwich combines smoked turkey, honey ham, provolone cheese, and a zesty garlic sauce for an extra kick. Follow this detailed Firehouse Subs Zesty Garlic Hook & Ladder recipe to recreate this Firehouse Subs favorite at home with fresh ingredients and a homemade garlic sauce that enhances every bite.

Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
– 2 sub rolls (hoagie or Italian-style)
– 4 ounces smoked turkey breast, sliced
– 4 ounces honey ham, sliced
– 4 slices provolone cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for toasting)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For the Zesty Garlic Sauce:
– 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Toppings:
– 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
– 1/4 cup sliced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons sliced red onions
– 2 tablespoons pickles
– 1 tablespoon zesty garlic sauce (per sub)
How to Make the Firehouse Subs Zesty Garlic Hook & Ladder Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Zesty Garlic Sauce
1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until smooth and set aside in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Toast the Sub Rolls
1. Slice the sub rolls lengthwise but do not cut all the way through.
2. Melt butter in a pan and mix in garlic powder, oregano, basil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Brush the garlic butter mixture on the inside of each roll.
4. Toast the rolls in a skillet or oven for 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
Step 3: Heat the Turkey and Ham
1. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the turkey and ham for about 2 minutes until heated through.
2. Place the warm meats onto the toasted rolls.
Step 3: Melt the Cheese
1. Place 2 slices of provolone cheese over the turkey and ham on each sub.
2. If using an oven, broil the subs for about 2 minutes until the cheese melts. If using a stovetop, cover the skillet with a lid for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is gooey.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Sauce
1. Layer shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and pickles on top of the melted cheese.
2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of the zesty garlic sauce over each sub.
3. Close the sandwich and serve immediately for the best flavor.
Homemade Zesty Garlic Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, olive oil, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and black pepper. Stir well.
Step 2: Let the Flavors Develop
Refrigerate the sauce for at least 15 minutes before using to enhance the garlic and herb flavors.
Step 3: Serve and Store
Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Firehouse Subs Zesty Garlic Hook & Ladder Recipe
– Use freshly minced garlic in the sauce for a more intense flavor.
– Toast the bread just enough to create a crispy texture without making it too hard.
– For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the garlic sauce.
– Melt the cheese properly by covering the skillet or broiling the sandwich for a few minutes.
– Make the sauce ahead of time for even more flavor development.
Nutritions
Nutrition | Small | Medium | Large |
---|---|---|---|
Calories | 400 | 800 | 1300 |
Fat | 16g | 32g | 52g |
Saturated Fat | 5g | 10g | 16g |
Cholesterol | 40mg | 80mg | 130mg |
Sodium | 980mg | 1960mg | 3260mg |
Carbohydrates | 42g | 84g | 140g |
Fiber | 2g | 4g | 6g |
Sugar | 6g | 12g | 18g |
Protein | 22g | 44g | 72g |
FAQs Related To Firehouse Subs Zesty Garlic Hook & Ladder Recipe
1. Can I use a different cheese instead of provolone?
Yes! Swiss, mozzarella, or white cheddar are great alternatives for a different flavor profile.
2. What’s the best bread for this sub?
A hoagie roll or Italian-style sub roll works best, as they hold up well against the sauce and fillings.
3. How can I make this sub spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the zesty garlic sauce.
4. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients and assemble just before eating.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover components separately and assemble fresh to maintain texture and flavor.
6. Can I use store-bought garlic sauce?
Yes, but homemade zesty garlic sauce gives the most authentic flavor.
7. How do I prevent my sandwich from getting soggy?
Toast the bread well and add wet ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes just before serving.
8. Can I use turkey and ham from the deli?
Absolutely! High-quality deli turkey and ham work great for this recipe.
9. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free sub roll and double-check the ingredients of the sauce to make it gluten-free.
10. Can I grill this sandwich instead of broiling?
Yes! Use a panini press or grill for a crispy, toasty exterior.