Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack or meal, these cheesy pepperoni sliders are a perfect choice! They combine all the classic flavors of pizza in a fun, easy-to-eat format. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, these sliders will become a favorite in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to make these tasty treats.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
12 dinner rolls (or Hawaiian Sweet Rolls)
3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2 packs (6 ounces each) 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
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders
These cheesy pepperoni sliders are not only easy to prepare but also satisfying and delicious. Follow the simple instructions provided, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking to treat yourself, these sliders will not disappoint.
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
Using a long serrated knife, slice the entire set of dinner rolls in half horizontally without separating them individually. Place the bottom half in the prepared pan.
Add the 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 Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly over the pepperoni.
Top with Roll Half
Place the top half of the rolls over the assembled layers.
Brush with Butter
Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter.
Prepare Seasoning Mixture
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.
Remove Foil 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. Place them in an airtight container or wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheating
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
Using a long serrated knife allows for a clean cut through all the rolls at once, ensuring uniformity in your sliders and making assembly easier.
Layering Ingredients
Carefully layer the mozzarella, pizza sauce, and pepperoni to create distinct layers of flavor and texture, which adds to the overall taste of the sliders.
Brushing with Butter
Brushing the tops with melted butter not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that golden, crispy texture on the surface of the rolls.
Using Aluminum Foil
Covering the pan with aluminum foil while baking prevents the tops of the rolls from over-browning too quickly and allows the cheese to melt evenly.
Final Toasting
Removing the foil for the last few minutes of baking allows the tops to become lightly toasted, enhancing the texture and flavor of the sliders.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other types of cheese such as cheddar or provolone for different flavors.
What if I can’t find Hawaiian rolls?
You can use regular dinner rolls or slider buns as an alternative.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a day in advance, cover them well, and bake them just before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Allow the sliders to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly and bake directly from the freezer, increasing the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
These delectable pizza sliders are a quick and satisfying way to enjoy a pizza-inspired meal. Perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner, they combine the flavors of pepperoni pizza into a fun, easy-to-serve slider format. The blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, along with the buttery, seasoned top, adds a delicious touch that elevates these sliders to a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Pepperoni and Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks
Transform pizza flavors into cheesy breadsticks by using the same ingredients without the rolls. Combine pepperoni, mozzarella, and pizza sauce with dough to create stuffed breadsticks perfect for dipping.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Swap out the pepperoni for shredded buffalo chicken mixed with mozzarella cheese and a drizzle of ranch dressing for an exciting twist on the classic sliders.
Vegetarian Italian Sliders
For a meatless option, fill the rolls with a mix of roasted vegetables, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese for a delightful and hearty vegetarian treat.
Margherita Caprese Sliders
Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on the rolls, drizzled with balsamic glaze to create a fresh and flavorful Italian-inspired slider.
Cheesy Garlic Bread Sliders
Infuse the rolls with cheesy garlic goodness by spreading garlic butter on the tops before baking and filling with mozzarella cheese for an irresistible garlic bread take on sliders.
