Pizza Sliders
Pizza Sliders are the ultimate comfort food that brings joy to any gathering. These delightful snacks are easy to make and are perfect for game day, parties, or a cozy movie night at home. With soft Hawaiian rolls filled with gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and zesty pizza sauce, they offer a fun twist on traditional pizza. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile treat for everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Family-Friendly: Pizza Sliders are loved by both kids and adults, ensuring everyone is satisfied.
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the ingredients with various meats or veggies to suit your taste.
- Perfectly Portable: These sliders are great for tailgating or as party appetizers—easy to transport and serve!
- Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of mozzarella and parmesan creates a rich, gooey texture that’s hard to resist.
Tools and Preparation
To make these delicious Pizza Sliders successfully, you will need some essential tools that streamline the process.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick spray: Prevents the sliders from sticking to the baking dish, making cleanup easier.
- 9×13 baking dish: Provides the perfect size for baking all 12 sliders at once.
- Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts through the rolls without squishing them.
- Pastry brush: Allows for even application of butter on top of the rolls for extra flavor.
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 12 count package Hawaiian rolls
- 2½ cup shredded mozzarella (divided 1 cup and 1 ¼ cup)
- ¾ cup pizza sauce
- 20 slices deli style dry cured pepperoni
For Topping
- ⅓ cup salted sweet cream butter (melted)
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
How to Make Pizza Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Keeping the rolls connected, carefully slice them in half horizontally. Remove the top row of buns and set it aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Bottom Layer
Place the bottom row of buns in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella over these buns.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Pepperoni
Spread pizza sauce evenly over the mozzarella. Then layer five rows of four slices of pepperoni on top of the sauce.
Step 5: Finish Assembly
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over the pepperoni. Finally, place the top row of connected buns on top of everything.
Step 6: Add Toppings
Using a pastry brush, generously apply melted butter on top of the buns. Then sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and dried Italian seasoning over this layer.
Step 7: Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Once done, remove from oven and carefully slice into individual slider sandwiches. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Pizza Sliders
Pizza Sliders are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders can be paired with different sides and dips to enhance the experience.
With Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce – A classic pairing that adds a burst of flavor.
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy and tangy, perfect for those who love a rich dip.
- Garlic Butter – Drizzle this on top for an extra indulgent touch.
As Party Platters
- Charcuterie Board – Include Pizza Sliders alongside meats, cheeses, and fruits for a festive spread.
- Veggie Platter – Fresh vegetables add crunch and balance out the richness of the sliders.
- Assorted Chips – Serve with a variety of chips for that added crunch factor.
At Game Day Gatherings
- Buffalo Sauce – Spice things up by serving some buffalo sauce on the side.
- Pickles – Tangy pickles complement the savory flavors of the sliders perfectly.
How to Perfect Pizza Sliders
To ensure your Pizza Sliders are always a hit, follow these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Using fresh mozzarella and quality pepperoni makes all the difference in taste.
- Don’t Overstuff – While it’s tempting to add more filling, overstuffing can lead to messy sliders.
- Brush Generously with Butter – This adds flavor and helps achieve that golden brown finish on top.
- Let Them Rest Before Serving – Allowing the sliders to cool slightly makes them easier to slice and serve.
Best Side Dishes for Pizza Sliders
Pizza Sliders pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some fantastic options:
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine with creamy dressing complements the richness of the sliders.
- Garlic Knots – Deliciously buttery knots that echo Italian flavors perfectly.
- Potato Wedges – Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside; these make for a hearty side.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing crunch balances out the savory sliders.
- Fruit Salad – A light option that adds sweetness and freshness to your meal.
- Mozzarella Sticks – For cheese lovers, these gooey sticks are always a hit!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pizza Sliders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the Butter: Not brushing melted butter on top can lead to dry sliders. Always add this step for a flavorful, golden finish.
- Overcrowding the Pan: If the rolls are too close together, they may not cook evenly. Ensure there’s enough space for heat circulation.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap cheese or sauce can ruin the taste. Opt for high-quality mozzarella and pizza sauce for the best flavor.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unpreheated oven can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 375°F before baking.
- Serving Too Soon: Letting the sliders rest for a few minutes after baking allows flavors to meld and makes them easier to slice.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pizza Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pizza Sliders
- For long-term storage, wrap individual sliders in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Pizza Sliders can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Pizza Sliders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-60 seconds until warm, but note that this may make the bread soggy.
- Stovetop: Place sliders in a skillet over low heat and cover until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I customize my Pizza Sliders?
You can add different toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives to suit your taste. Experiment with various cheeses as well!
Can I use other types of rolls?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are sweet and soft, you can use any slider rolls you prefer for different flavors and textures.
Are these Pizza Sliders kid-friendly?
Yes! The combination of cheese and pepperoni makes them a hit with kids. They are perfect for parties or family gatherings.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields 12 delicious Pizza Sliders, making it ideal for sharing at gatherings or game days.
Final Thoughts
Pizza Sliders are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces for a unique twist each time. Perfect for any occasion, these sliders promise satisfaction with every bite—try making them today!
Pizza Sliders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 sliders 1x
Description
Pizza Sliders are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any gathering or cozy night at home. These delightful bites feature soft Hawaiian rolls stuffed with gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and zesty pizza sauce, creating a delicious twist on traditional pizza. Easily customizable with your favorite toppings, these sliders are sure to please both kids and adults alike. With quick prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in just 35 minutes. Whether for game day or a casual get-together, Pizza Sliders are a fun and tasty treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup pizza sauce
- 20 slices pepperoni
- ⅓ cup melted salted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Keeping the rolls connected, slice them in half horizontally and set the top half aside.
- Place the bottom half of the rolls in the baking dish and sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella.
- Spread pizza sauce over the cheese, then layer pepperoni slices on top.
- Add remaining mozzarella over the pepperoni, then place the top half of the rolls back on.
- Brush melted butter generously over the tops, then sprinkle with parmesan and Italian seasoning.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; slice into individual sliders before serving warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (70g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
