These hot Italian sub sliders are a tasty treat packed with layers of delicious meats, melted cheese, and zesty peppers. Perfect for a quick meal or party snack!
They’re super easy to make, and let’s be real—you can never go wrong with gooey cheese and savory fillings. I love serving them with a side of crunchy pickles! 🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Rolls: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness, but any slider-sized rolls work great. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free rolls or use lettuce wraps for a lighter option!
Provolone Cheese: Provolone gives a nice melt and flavor. If you prefer something sharper, swap it for mozzarella, or even cheddar. Just make sure it melts well!
Deli Meats: A mix of salami, pepperoni, and ham is traditional. You can easily use turkey or roast beef for a change, or go for vegetarian options like roasted peppers or grilled veggies if you want to skip the meat.
Pepperoncini Peppers: These add a nice tang! If you can’t find them, pickled jalapeños work instead for some heat, or skip them altogether for a milder flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Cheese Melts Perfectly?
To get that gooey, melty cheese everyone loves, covering your sliders with aluminum foil during baking is key. This traps steam and creates a warm environment for the cheese to melt beautifully without drying out the rolls.
- Preheat your oven so it’s ready when you put the sliders in.
- Keep the sliders covered for the first 10-12 minutes, then uncover for the last few minutes to get a nice golden top.
- Don’t rush—let them bake until bubbly to ensure the best cheese texture!
How to Make Hot Italian Sub Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider-sized sandwich rolls or Hawaiian rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese, halved
- 12 slices of Italian deli meats (a mixture of salami, pepperoni, and ham)
- 1 large tomato, sliced thin
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Spread and Seasoning:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing or vinaigrette
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes to enjoy these delightful sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and ready when your sliders are assembled!
2. Prepare the Slider Rolls:
Take your slider rolls and slice them horizontally. If you have a batch of rolls, keep them attached at the back. This makes it easy to assemble and serve.
3. Make the Mayo Mixture:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Italian dressing. Mix them together until they are well blended. This will add a creamy, zesty flavor to your sliders!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the slider rolls. Then, layer your Italian deli meats on top. Next, add the sliced tomatoes, distributing them evenly. Now, place half a slice of provolone cheese over each tomato slice.
5. Top it Off:
Add in the sliced pepperoncini peppers and sprinkle some fresh basil leaves over the cheese for that fresh pop of flavor!
6. Close the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the rolls onto the assembled fillings, creating little sliders.
7. Season the Tops:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the melted butter, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the slider buns for added flavor.
8. Bake Them:
Place the sliders on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove your sliders from the oven. If you baked them as a batch, slice between the sliders for easy serving. And voila, your hot Italian sub sliders are ready to be devoured while they’re warm and cheesy!
These sliders are a crowd favorite, ideal for gatherings or a fun family meal. Enjoy every bite! 🥪
Can I Use Different Types of Rolls for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While slider rolls or Hawaiian rolls are wonderful for their sweet and fluffy texture, you can also use hoagie buns, mini baguettes, or even soft pita breads. Just adjust the quantities of filling based on the size of the bread you choose.
How Can I Make These Sliders Healthier?
To make these sliders healthier, consider using whole-grain rolls, lean turkey or chicken deli meats, or adding extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also use a yogurt-based dressing instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This will keep the rolls soft and the cheese melty!
Can I Make These Sliders Vegetarian?
Definitely! Just swap out the deli meats for vegetables like roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, and zucchini. You can also add avocado or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients!