These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are mini sandwiches packed with tasty meats like salami, pepperoni, and ham, topped with gooey cheese and zesty peppers. Perfect for a fun snack or game day!
Making these sliders is a breeze! Just pile everything between the bread, bake until melty, and enjoy. Trust me, they’ll be gone before you know it! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness and soft texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use whole wheat sliders or even mini tortillas for a fun twist.
Meats: The classic combination of pepperoni, salami, and ham gives amazing flavor. Try turkey or chicken deli meat if you prefer something leaner. You can also skip the meat for a vegetarian option—just pile on the veggies!
Cheese: Provolone is my favorite for that perfect melt, but mozzarella works just as well. If you’re dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese blend or some avocado slices for creaminess.
Dressings: Mixing mayonnaise with Italian dressing adds moisture and taste. If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding a splash of hot sauce to the mayo mix for a kick!
How Do I Get the Cheesy, Golden Top on My Sliders?
The key to a beautifully golden and cheesy topping is in the butter mixture! Brush the melted butter mixed with Italian seasoning and garlic powder generously over the top just before baking.
- Make sure the butter covers every inch for an even bake.
- Bake covered with foil first to keep the sliders moist, then uncover to brown them perfectly.
- Watch closely in the last few minutes to avoid burning, especially if your oven runs hot.
Let your sliders cool for a bit before serving. This helps the cheese firm up a little, making them easier to handle!
Hot Italian Sub Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 6 slices pepperoni, halved
- 6 slices salami, halved
- 6 slices cooked ham, halved
- 6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese, halved
- 1 tomato, thinly sliced
- Lettuce leaves, torn to fit sliders
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
For the Butter Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional:
- Sliced pepperoncini or banana peppers for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to bake, giving you a total of about 30 minutes to delicious sliders perfection! Perfect for a quick appetizer or game-day meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your sliders will bake evenly and come out perfectly melted and golden.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Slice your slider buns in half horizontally. If you’re using a sheet of Hawaiian rolls, keep the buns connected to make it easier to assemble the sliders.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Italian dressing until smooth. This will be spread on the inside of your buns for added flavor.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread the dressing mixture generously over the cut sides of the slider buns. On the bottom half of each bun, layer 1 slice of pepperoni, 1 slice of salami, 1 slice of ham, a slice of tomato, and a few torn lettuce leaves. Finish off with a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Add the Top Buns:
Once all the filling is stacked, place the top halves of the buns over the sliders to complete your sandwiches.
6. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a separate small bowl, combine the melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
7. Brush the Topping:
Using a brush or spoon, spread this butter mixture generously over the top buns. This will help them crisp up nicely.
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the assembled sliders loosely with aluminum foil and place them in the oven to bake for 15 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
9. Cool and Serve:
When they’re done baking, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese set a little, making them easier to handle. Serve with optional slices of pepperoncini or banana peppers on the side for an extra kick!
Enjoy your Hot Italian Sub Sliders with their perfect balance of spicy cured meats, melty cheese, and fresh veggies! They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for the Sliders?
Absolutely! While slider buns or Hawaiian rolls are perfect for this recipe, you can also use mini baguettes, ciabatta rolls, or even English muffins for a fun twist. Just ensure they can hold the filling without falling apart!
Can I Make These Sliders Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the meats with hearty vegetables like roasted peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also add extra cheese or some avocado for creaminess, making it just as satisfying!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a quicker option!
Can I Prepare These Sliders in Advance?
Definitely! You can assemble the sliders a few hours ahead of time, cover them with foil, and keep them in the fridge until ready to bake. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re colder from the refrigerator.
