Introduction
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious meal that’s sure to please a crowd, these cheesy pepperoni sliders are the perfect choice. Featuring soft dinner rolls, melted mozzarella, and savory pepperoni, this dish is inspired by classic pizza flavors. It’s simple to prepare and can be enjoyed as a meal or a party snack. Let’s dive into how to make these delightful sliders!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 dinner rolls (or Hawaiian Sweet Rolls)
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 6-ounce packs pepperoni (20-25 slices)
1 cup pizza sauce
½ cup melted butter
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders
Follow these simple instructions, and you’ll have delicious, cheesy pepperoni sliders ready for everyone to enjoy! The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish irresistible, whether you’re serving it for dinner, game day, or any casual gathering. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade pizza right in slider form!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
Slice the Rolls
Without separating the rolls, slice them in half horizontally using a long serrated knife, creating a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom half in the prepared pan.
Add the First Layer of Cheese
Evenly spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the bottom layer of rolls.
Spread the Pizza Sauce
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the cheese layer.
Arrange the Pepperoni
Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the sauce.
Add the Second Layer of Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni layer.
Add the Top Half of the Rolls
Place the top half of the rolls over the layers.
Brush with Melted Butter
Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter.
Mix and Sprinkle Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered rolls.
Cover and Bake
Cover the pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the tops of the rolls. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Uncover and Toast
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the tops are lightly toasted.
Cut and Serve
Remove from the oven, cut along the roll lines to separate the sliders, and serve warm.
Notes
Storing Leftovers
For leftovers, allow the sliders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or wrapping the pan tightly with plastic wrap. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the sliders in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Cook techniques
Slicing the Rolls
Use a long serrated knife to slice the dinner rolls in half horizontally without separating them, which allows for easy layering of fillings.
Layering Ingredients
Start with a base layer of cheese, followed by pizza sauce and pepperoni, ensuring even distribution to enhance flavor in every bite.
Brushing with Butter
Apply melted butter evenly over the top of the rolls to create a golden, flavorful crust while baking.
Mixing Seasonings
Combine grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a small bowl to create a flavorful topping that enhances the overall taste of the sliders.
Baking with Foil
Covering the pan with aluminum foil during the first part of baking helps to steam the rolls, leading to a softer texture before browning the tops.
Toasting the Tops
Remove the foil in the last few minutes of baking to allow the tops of the rolls to brown and become crispy, adding a nice contrast to the soft interior.
Cooling and Storing
Let the sliders cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Reheating Sliders
To reheat, use an oven set at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring the sliders are warmed through without becoming dry.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile.
Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can omit the pepperoni and add more vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives for a vegetarian version.
How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the pan?
Lightly spray the baking pan with cooking spray before placing the rolls in it to prevent sticking.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders and store them in the refrigerator before baking. It might require a few extra minutes to bake if they are cold.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
You can use whole grain rolls, low-fat cheese, and turkey pepperoni as healthier alternatives to traditional ingredients.
What should I serve with these sliders?
These sliders pair well with a side salad, fresh vegetables, or dipping sauces like ranch or marinara.
Conclusion
These delicious pepperoni sliders are a perfect blend of classic pizza flavors, encased in soft, fluffy rolls. Ideal for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, they offer a comforting and satisfying option that brings everyone together. Easy to prepare and customizable, you’ll find yourself making these sliders again and again.
Veggie Pizza Sliders
Substitute pepperoni with an assortment of colorful bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, and olives for a healthier, veggie-packed version that retains all the fun of pizza.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Use shredded barbecue chicken instead of pepperoni, and add some sliced red onion along with a tangy barbecue sauce for a flavorful take on sliders that fans of BBQ will love.
Caprese Sliders
Replace pepperoni with fresh mozzarella slices, ripe tomatoes, and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving for an Italian twist that’s fresh and vibrant.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce, and layer with creamy ranch dressing and mozzarella cheese for a spicy kick that’s perfect for game day.
Meatball Sliders
Stuff the rolls with cooked meatballs and marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella cheese, for a mini meatball sub experience that’s sure to please.
Taco Sliders
Swap pizza sauce for taco sauce and layer seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, and sliced jalapeños for a fun and festive slider that’s bursting with flavor.
