Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make party snack, these pizza sliders made with dinner rolls are sure to please a crowd. With layers of melted mozzarella cheese, zesty pepperoni, and rich pizza sauce, they’re the perfect finger food for game nights, gatherings, or just a cozy dinner at home. The addition of buttery toppings and a sprinkle of Italian seasonings makes these sliders irresistible.
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
The preparation for these delicious sliders takes about 15 minutes, making it a quick and efficient option for any host.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Without separating the rolls, slice them horizontally as a whole unit. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
3. Evenly spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the bottom half of the rolls.
4. Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the cheese layer.
5. Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the sauce.
6. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni.
7. Place the top half of the rolls over the layers.
8. Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the buttered rolls.
10. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the tops of the rolls.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
13. Remove from the oven, cut along the roll lines to separate the sliders, and serve warm.
Notes
– For leftovers, allow the sliders to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
– To reheat, place the sliders in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Slice the Rolls
Without separating the rolls, slice them horizontally as a whole unit. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
3. Add Mozzarella Cheese
Evenly spread half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the bottom half of the rolls.
4. Spread the Pizza Sauce
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the cheese layer.
5. Arrange the Pepperoni
Arrange the pepperoni slices evenly over the sauce.
6. Add More Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni.
7. Top the Rolls
Place the top half of the rolls over the layers.
8. Brush with Butter
Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter.
9. 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.
10. Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the tops of the rolls. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
11. Remove Foil and Finish Baking
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
12. Serve the Sliders
Remove from the oven, cut along the roll lines to separate the sliders, and serve warm.
Notes
Leftover Storage
For leftovers, allow the sliders to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container or wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate 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 Dinner Rolls
Slice the rolls horizontally as a whole unit to create a top and bottom. This technique allows for easy stacking of ingredients and helps keep the sliders together.
Layering Ingredients
Layer the mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, and pepperoni evenly to ensure every bite is full of flavor. Building these layers creates a balanced taste and texture throughout the sliders.
Brushing with Butter
Brushing the tops of the rolls with melted butter adds moisture and enhances browning during baking. This step contributes to a delicious, golden crust.
Using Foil
Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil during the first part of baking traps moisture, helping the sliders cook evenly by steaming them. Removing the foil toward the end promotes browning.
Serving Warm
Cut the sliders along the roll lines once they are removed from the oven. Serving them warm ensures the cheese remains melty and each slider is easy to handle.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can use different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend, but mozzarella provides a great melt and stretch.
Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance, cover them, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
What can I substitute for pepperoni?
You can substitute pepperoni with other meats like cooked sausage, ham, or turkey slices for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the sliders to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly to refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Assemble the sliders, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw and bake as directed when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This delicious pepperoni and cheese slider recipe is a perfect addition to any gathering. The combination of soft rolls, melty mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and flavorful seasonings make these sliders a crowd-pleaser. Serve them warm for the best experience, and enjoy the convenience of easy preparation and serving.
Cheesy Chicken Sliders
Substitute pepperoni with shredded cooked chicken and add ranch seasoning for a creamy, flavorful twist.
Meatball Sliders
Replace the pepperoni with cooked mini meatballs and marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella for a heartier option.
Veggie Pizza Sliders
Use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and olives in place of pepperoni, and add a little pesto for an extra flavor boost.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Incorporate shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese dressings for a spicy and tangy variation.
Caprese Sliders
Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a fresh and vibrant option.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Swap in pulled pork mixed with barbecue sauce and top with coleslaw for a smoky and sweet treat.
Breakfast Sliders
Fill the rolls with scrambled eggs, cheese, and cooked bacon or sausage for a delightful breakfast option.
Spinach Artichoke Sliders
Mix spinach and artichoke dip with mozzarella cheese for a creamy and savory appetizer.
