These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are mini sandwiches packed with flavors! Stuffed with pepperoni, salami, and gooey cheese, they’re perfect for a fun meal or game day snack.
Honestly, who can resist warm, cheesy goodness? I love stacking them with my favorite toppings like peppers and olives. They disappear faster than I can make them! 😂
Making these sliders is super simple! Just layer the ingredients, bake until warm and melty, and they are ready to serve. Perfect for sharing (or not!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness, but any slider or dinner roll works. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free rolls in the bakery or freezer section.
Meats: This recipe shines with pepperoni, salami, and ham. You can swap them for turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or make it vegetarian using grilled veggies or sliced mushrooms.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone brings a nice flavor, but mozzarella or cheddar could also work. For a dairy-free version, try vegan cheese that melts well.
Italian Dressing: You can make homemade dressing with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. Or, try a balsamic glaze for a different taste!
Herbs and Seasonings: I love adding fresh herbs when available. If you have fresh parsley or oregano, they’re fantastic substitutes for dried.
How Do I Layer My Sliders for Maximum Flavor?
Layering the sliders correctly can really enhance the flavor. Follow these steps for a tasty bite every time:
- Start with the bottom buns in the baking dish to catch all the flavors.
- Lay down the meats flat so they overlap slightly, ensuring every bite has a mix of flavors.
- Place a slice of cheese on top of the meats, but don’t overload it; one slice is enough to get melty goodness.
- If using, spread the peppers evenly over the cheese for an extra kick.
- Drizzle the Italian dressing directly over the meats and cheese for moisture and flavor.
Keep it simple, and make sure everything is snug under the top buns for the best results! 👍
Hot Italian Sub Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (about 12-pack Hawaiian rolls work great)
- 6 slices pepperoni
- 6 slices salami
- 6 slices ham
- 6 slices provolone cheese
For the Dressing and Topping:
- 1/2 cup Italian dressing (bottled or homemade)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
Extras (optional):
- Sliced roasted red peppers or banana peppers for extra heat and flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying these sliders in just half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the sliders bake evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Slice the slider buns horizontally to create a top and bottom half. Be careful not to cut all the way through, so they stay connected.
3. Arrange the Bottom Buns:
Place the bottom half of the buns in a baking dish, keeping them together as a tray. This makes layering easier!
4. Layer the Meats:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Layer the pepperoni, salami, and ham evenly over the bottom buns. Make sure to spread them out so every slider has some meat.
5. Add Cheese:
Top the meats with a slice of provolone cheese on each slider. This cheesy goodness is what makes these sliders so tasty!
6. Add Optional Peppers:
If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle some sliced roasted red peppers or banana peppers over the cheese for an extra burst of flavor and a little kick!
7. Drizzle with Dressing:
Drizzle the Italian dressing evenly over the stacked meats and cheese. This adds moisture and a delicious flavor.
8. Close the Sliders:
Carefully place the top half of the slider buns over the layers. Press down slightly to secure everything in place.
9. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, dried parsley, oregano, and garlic powder. Mix well and brush this mixture generously over the tops of the slider buns. This gives them a golden, flavorful crust when baked!
10. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. This will melt the cheese and warm the sliders through.
11. Final Bake:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to create a beautiful, golden top.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the sliders from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes, then separate and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Hot Italian Sub Sliders!
These sliders make a perfect party appetizer or a tasty meal—everyone will love them!
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the pepperoni, salami, and ham with your favorite deli meats. Turkey, chicken, or a combo of your preferred meats can be delicious options too!
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead! Assemble the sliders, cover them tightly, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since they’ll be chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave for a quick meal!
Can I Freeze These Sliders?
Yes! You can freeze them before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, and then follow the original baking instructions.