Meet your new favorite sandwich obsession: The Scorpion Sub! We've taken the classic Italian-American sausage and pepper hoagie and transformed it into something extraordinary with our Mild Hot Sauce. Imagine juicy Italian sausage, sweet caramelized peppers and onions, melted provolone cheese, all brought together with a magical mango-mild glaze that adds just the right amount of sweet heat. This isn't your average sub – it's a gourmet experience that proves our mildest sauce delivers maximum flavor impact. Perfect for game day gatherings, family dinners, or when you simply crave the ultimate comfort food upgrade that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their heat tolerance.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Italian sausage links (sweet or hot, based on preference)
- 3 large Bell peppers (mixed colors for visual appeal)
- 1 large Yellow onion (sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil (divided)
- 1/4 cup Scorpion Gourmet Mild Hot Sauce
- 2 tbsp Mango preserves (or 3 tbsp mango nectar)
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 4 Hoagie rolls (soft but sturdy)
- 8 slices Provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup Banana peppers (optional, for extra tang)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
-
Prepare the vegetables: Slice bell peppers and onion into 1/4-inch strips. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add peppers and onion, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and caramelized. Add minced garlic during last 2 minutes of cooking.
Proper caramelization creates sweet, deep flavors that balance perfectly with our Mild Hot Sauce. -
Cook the sausage: While vegetables cook, pierce sausage links a few times with a fork. In another skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Cook sausages for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F). Remove and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice on a bias into 1/2-inch pieces.
-
Make the mango-mild glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together Scorpion Gourmet Mild Hot Sauce, mango preserves, and balsamic vinegar until smooth. Set aside.
The secret sauce! Our Mild Hot Sauce combines perfectly with mango for sweet heat balance. -
Toast the rolls: Split hoagie rolls lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Toast under broiler or in a 400°F oven for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
-
Assemble the subs: Place 2 slices provolone cheese in each toasted roll. Divide caramelized peppers and onions among the rolls. Top with sliced sausage. Drizzle generously with the mango-mild glaze. Add banana peppers if using.
-
Finish and serve: Place assembled subs on a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately with extra Scorpion Mild Hot Sauce on the side for those who want an extra kick.
That perfect melt! The broiler creates bubbly cheese that embraces all the flavorful components.
Pro Tips
- Toast for texture: Don't skip toasting the hoagie rolls! This creates a barrier that prevents the juicy filling from making the bread soggy.
- Slice on a bias: Cutting the sausages at an angle creates more surface area for the glaze to cling to and makes for easier eating.
- Make-ahead magic: You can prepare the peppers, onions, and glaze up to 2 days ahead – just reheat before assembling for quick weeknight dinners.
Variations
- Chicken sausage alternative: Use Italian-style chicken sausage for a lighter version that's just as flavorful.
- Vegetarian delight: Substitute meatless Italian sausage or grilled portobello mushrooms for a plant-based option.
- Spicy upgrade: For heat lovers, add sliced jalapeños or use a blend of our Mild and Original Scorpion sauces in the glaze.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these epic hoagies with classic sandwich sides like kettle chips, crisp coleslaw, or an Italian antipasto salad. For game day, set up a 'sub bar' with all the components separately so guests can build their own. Perfect with cold beer, Italian soda, or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio. These sandwiches are equally fantastic for casual family dinners, picnic lunches, or meal prep – just pack the components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
Conclusion
The Scorpion Sub proves that our Mild Hot Sauce is far more than just a beginner's option – it's a sophisticated flavor enhancer that can transform everyday meals into extraordinary experiences. This sandwich showcases how balanced heat can elevate comfort food classics, making them more exciting without being intimidating. Whether you're new to spicy foods or a seasoned heat-seeker looking for nuanced flavor, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. It's the perfect introduction to the Scorpion Gourmet world, showing that sometimes the mildest sting creates the most memorable impact. Share your sandwich creations with us by tagging @ScorpionGourmet - we love seeing how our community creates fiery masterpieces!
