These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are mini sandwiches filled with gooey cheese and tasty pepperoni, all tucked inside soft rolls. Perfect for lunch or a quick snack!
Honestly, who doesn’t love pizza? I love making these sliders for game nights or movie marathons. They’re super easy to whip up and vanish quickly! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Choose soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls for a slightly sweet touch. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free slider buns or use large vegetables like portobello mushrooms as a base.
Pepperoni: Regular pepperoni is standard, but turkey pepperoni is a leaner option. You could also use salami or even vegetables like roasted red peppers for a meatless slider.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice for its meltiness. You can substitute with provolone or cheddar if you prefer different flavors. Vegan cheese options are also available for dairy-free diets.
Pizza Sauce: If you’re out of pizza sauce, marinara works perfectly. You can even make a quick sauce by mixing tomato sauce with Italian herbs and a pinch of sugar.
How Do I Keep My Sliders from Getting Soggy?
To ensure your sliders stay deliciously soft and not soggy, follow these tips:
- Spread the sauce lightly on the bottom buns. Too much sauce can make them soggy.
- Let the sliders bake just until the cheese melts and the buns are golden. Overbaking can also add moisture.
- Serve them immediately after baking. The longer they sit, the more moisture can soak into the buns.
By keeping an eye on the sauce and baking time, you can enjoy sliders that are perfectly balanced in texture!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 12 slices pepperoni
- 12 slices mozzarella cheese (or cut to fit slider size)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried oregano and basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake, making it a quick and delicious option. In total, you can have these tasty sliders ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sliders bake evenly!
2. Prepare the Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns horizontally. If they are connected, that’s okay! It’ll make assembling easier.
3. Assemble the Bottom Layer:
Place the bottom halves of the buns in a baking dish or on a baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each bun bottom to give it that delicious pizza flavor.
4. Add Cheese and Pepperoni:
Now, layer one slice of mozzarella cheese over each bun and top that with one slice of pepperoni. Yum!
5. Complete the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the buns over the toppings. They’re starting to look good already!
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This blend will add a ton of flavor to the sliders!
7. Brush and Sprinkle:
Brush this buttery mixture all over the top of the buns. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered tops.
8. Bake the Sliders:
Pop the sliders in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to melt and the tops to become golden brown.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once they are baked, take them out and let them cool for just a minute. Garnish with chopped basil and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper for an extra pop of flavor.
10. Enjoy!
Serve these warm and watch them disappear in no time! Perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in.
These sliders combine all the familiar flavors of pizza in a fun, bite-sized format. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or a casual dinner at home!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for the Sliders?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, you can use provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of cheeses for extra flavor. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well for that gooey texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey pepperoni works well! You can also try sliced salami, or for a vegetarian option, use roasted vegetables or even slices of mushrooms.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sliders up to the baking step and then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them with foil so they don’t dry out. When ready to serve, pop them in the oven and bake!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in the oven or microwave until heated through. You might want to brush a little extra butter on top before reheating for an added touch!