These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are like mini pizza sandwiches that are super fun to eat! Soft rolls are filled with gooey cheese, pepperoni, and zesty sauce, all baked to perfection.
They’re perfect for quick snacks or game day munching—who doesn’t love pizza in slider form? I make them in batches because they disappear fast! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are key to keeping everything together. If you can’t find slider rolls, try using Hawaiian rolls for a slightly sweet touch!
Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni is perfect, but you can swap it for turkey or vegetarian versions if you’re looking for a healthier or meat-free option.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings the gooey stretch, but you could use a blend of cheeses, like provolone or cheddar, for a different flavor twist.
Pizza Sauce: If you don’t have pizza sauce, marinara sauce or even a bit of pesto can work. Just remember to adjust seasonings accordingly!
How Do You Make Sure Your Sliders Stay Soft and Delicious?
Keeping your sliders tender and tasty starts with the right baking method. Here’s how to ensure they stay soft:
- Don’t overbake! The covered first phase prevents drying out. Cook until the cheese melts and just long enough to brown the tops.
- Brush the butter mixture generously on top. It adds flavor and helps lock in moisture.
- Let them cool slightly before serving. This helps the cheese set a bit, making them easier to pull apart without falling apart.
With these tips, your Pepperoni Pizza Sliders will be a hit at any gathering!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Sliders:
- 12 slider rolls or small soft dinner rolls
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 24 slices pepperoni (about 2 per slider)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep these sliders and 20 minutes to bake them. So, a total of around 30 minutes to make this tasty treat! Perfect for a quick snack or dinner option.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your sliders will bake evenly and get nice and warm.
2. Prepare the Rolls:
Take your slider rolls and slice them horizontally. You can either keep them attached as one slab to bake and then separate them later, or slice them individually if you prefer. This opens up the rolls for all that delicious filling!
3. Assemble the Sliders:
Arrange the bottom halves of the rolls in a baking pan, placing them close together. This helps in keeping them warm and toasty. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce evenly over each bottom roll.
4. Add the Pepperoni and Cheese:
Next, layer the pepperoni slices evenly over the sauce on each slider. Go ahead and pile on the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the pepperoni for that gooey goodness!
5. Top and Season:
Place the top halves of the rolls on the loaded sliders. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with Italian seasoning and garlic powder. Brush this seasoned butter generously over the tops of the rolls—yum!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Cover the pan with foil and bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown. This will give those tops a nice texture!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take the sliders out of the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and freshness. Serve the sliders warm and enjoy your delicious, cheesy pepperoni pizza sliders!
These sliders are the perfect finger food—soft buns stuffed with melty cheese, zesty sauce, and crispy pepperoni, making them ideal for any occasion! 🍕🎉
Can I Use Whole Wheat Rolls Instead of Regular Slider Rolls?
Absolutely! Whole wheat rolls are a great healthier alternative and will work just as well. They may add a nutty flavor that complements the fillings nicely.
What If I Don’t Have Italian Seasoning?
No problem! You can mix your own by combining equal parts dried oregano, basil, and thyme. If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
Can I Freeze Leftover Sliders?
Yes! To freeze, wrap individual sliders tightly in foil or plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven to keep them nice and warm.
How Can I Make These Sliders Vegetarian?
Simply omit the pepperoni and add slices of veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a tasty veggie version. You can also add more cheese to make them extra cheesy!