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Pizza Sliders are the ultimate comfort food that brings together cheesy, saucy goodness with the perfect handheld convenience. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving something fun and flavorful, these sliders are designed to impress and satisfy every time.
I first made these sliders for a casual game night and was amazed at how quickly they disappeared. Now they are my go-to dish whenever friends come over.
Ingredients
- 12 Hawaiian Rolls: soft and slightly sweet which balances the savory toppings
- Half cup marinara sauce: provides a rich tomato base that keeps everything moist
- 24 slices pepperoni: adds a flavorful and spicy meat layer
- One and a half cups shredded mozzarella cheese: melts perfectly for that classic cheese pull
- Quarter cup unsalted butter melted: used for brushing the tops to ensure golden and flavorful crust
- Half teaspoon garlic powder: brings a fragrant kick to the butter mixture
- Half teaspoon dried oregano: enhances the pizza-like aroma and depth
- Two tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: adds salty sharpness on top
- One tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional): a fresh garnish to brighten the sliders
When selecting mozzarella, go for the whole-milk variety if possible for creamier melting. The rolls should be fresh for softness that holds up well to baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This moderate heat will warm the sliders through while melting the cheese beautifully.
- Prepare the Rolls:
- Without separating the rolls, slice the entire sheet horizontally into two halves. Place the bottom half carefully into a greased 9 by 13-inch baking dish to form a solid base.
- Spread Marinara Sauce:
- Evenly spread the marinara sauce over the bottom half of the rolls. This layer adds moisture and the classic pizza tomato flavor throughout each slider.
- Add Pepperoni Layer:
- Place all 24 slices of pepperoni evenly across the marinara-coated rolls. Make sure the coverage is consistent so each bite has that savory pepperoni hit.
- Sprinkle Mozzarella Cheese:
- Generously scatter the shredded mozzarella over the pepperoni. This cheese melts to bind the toppings and provides gooey richness.
- Add the Top Rolls:
- Gently place the top halves of the Hawaiian rolls over the cheese layer. Press down lightly to help the layers meld together during baking.
- Mix and Brush Butter Mixture:
- In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter with garlic powder and dried oregano. This flavorful brush will enhance the crust and add a wonderful savory aroma.
- Brush Tops and Add Parmesan:
- Brush the butter mixture over the top rolls. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly across the tops for a sharp, toasted finish.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the baking dish loosely with foil to prevent the rolls from drying out. Bake for 10 minutes allowing the cheese to melt and flavors to blend.
- Uncover and Finish Baking:
- Remove the foil and bake for another 7 to 8 minutes. Watch for the tops to become golden brown and slightly crisp, making the sliders irresistible.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Optional: sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Slice the entire slab into individual sliders and serve warm for the best experience.
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Mozzarella cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it creates that stretchy melt that brings pure joy with every bite. I remember making these for a birthday party and watching everyone fight over the last slider, which is always a good sign.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the sliders in a low oven until warmed through to keep the buns soft and cheese melted.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for new flavor dimensions. Use turkey pepperoni or omit for a vegetarian version with extra veggies like mushrooms or olives for topping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a crisp green salad or a bowl of marinara for dipping. These sliders are fantastic finger food paired with a cold soda or your favorite craft beer at gatherings.
Cultural Context
Pizza sliders are a modern American twist on traditional pizza. They embody the casual, shareable food spirit popular in parties and game day locations, combining convenience with classic pizza flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → What bread is best for these sliders?
Soft Hawaiian rolls work perfectly, providing a slightly sweet and tender base that complements the savory toppings.
- → Can I add other toppings to the sliders?
Yes, feel free to include vegetables or different cheeses to customize the flavor profile and texture.
- → How do I ensure the cheese melts evenly?
Cover the baking dish with foil for the first 10 minutes, then uncover to allow the cheese to brown without drying out.
- → Is there a recommended way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness and melty cheese rather than using a microwave, which can make the bread soggy.
- → How does the garlic butter mixture enhance flavor?
The melted butter combined with garlic powder and oregano adds a rich, aromatic layer that ties the ingredients together beautifully.