These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are fun and super cheesy! With soft rolls filled with pepperoni and gooey cheese, they are perfect for any party or movie night.
Honestly, who can resist a warm slider? I love bundling these up for game day—everyone wants seconds! Just make sure to have plenty of napkins handy! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hawaiian rolls: These sweet rolls are perfect for sliders because they are soft and slightly sweet. If you can’t find them, try using regular slider buns or even dinner rolls. You can also use whole wheat rolls for a healthier option.
Pepperoni: Sliced pepperoni is the classic topping. For a healthier twist, turkey pepperoni works well too, or you can use other meats like salami or even veggies like sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Cheese: I used mozzarella for its meltiness and provolone for extra flavor. If you want something different, try cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds flavor and helps crisp up the top. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use olive oil or vegan butter instead.
How Do I Get My Sliders Extra Cheesy and Flavorful?
To make sure your sliders are super cheesy and flavorful, a few tips will help! First, layering your cheeses helps build that melty goodness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always start with a layer of cheese directly on the pepperoni. This keeps the pepperoni from making the bottom soggy!
- Brush the seasoned butter mixture on top of the rolls for extra flavor. This helps the tops brown and adds a nice garlic flavor.
- Covering the sliders with foil while baking keeps the steam in and helps melt the cheese quickly. Remove it after 15 minutes to let them crisp up!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls (or slider buns)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 8 oz sliced pepperoni
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz sliced provolone cheese
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley or fresh chopped basil (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to bake, resulting in delicious sliders in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick snack or party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the sliders to golden perfection.
2. Prepare the Rolls:
Take your Hawaiian rolls and slice them horizontally in half, keeping the top and bottom in one piece. Place the bottom half of the rolls into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Add the Sauce and Toppings:
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the bottom half of the rolls. Next, layer the sliced pepperoni evenly over the sauce, followed by half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Then, add the sliced provolone cheese on top of the mozzarella.
4. Add the Top Half:
Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer. This will hold all the delicious ingredients together.
5. Make the Topping Mixture:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will add a great flavor to the tops of your sliders.
6. Brush the Butter Mixture:
Generously brush the seasoned butter mixture over the top of the rolls. Make sure to cover all surfaces for extra flavor!
7. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the sliders out of the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch. Use a sharp knife to cut between the sliders. Serve warm and enjoy!
These gooey, cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are perfect for sharing and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and provolone create a classic flavor, you can substitute with cheddar, gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese if you prefer. Just ensure it melts well!
How Can I Make These Sliders Healthier?
For a healthier version, consider using whole-wheat slider buns, turkey pepperoni, and low-fat cheese. You can also add veggies like sliced bell peppers or spinach inside for extra nutrition!
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sliders a few hours in advance! Assemble them, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, covered with foil, to maintain moisture and ensure they don’t dry out.
