Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delicious and cheesy treat that’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in. These cheesy pepperoni sliders are a delightful twist on traditional sliders, loaded with layers of flavor and a gooey cheese center. With a simple ingredient list and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself making this dish time and again.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
1 package of 12-count rolls, sliced in half horizontally (keeping them connected as a whole unit)
1 cup spicy marinara sauce
2½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
1 (5-ounce) package mini pepperoni
½ cup black olives, drained
½ stick unsalted butter, melted
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon parsley
¾ teaspoon garlic salt
2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12 to 15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
12 sliders
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.
3. Using a large serrated knife, slice the rolls in half horizontally to create a ‘slab’ of tops and a ‘slab’ of bottoms, keeping them connected.
4. Place the bottom ‘slab’ of rolls in the prepared pan.
5. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
6. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Colby Jack cheeses over the sauce.
7. Evenly layer half of the mini pepperoni over the cheese.
8. Repeat the layering with the remaining cheeses and pepperoni.
9. Distribute the black olives evenly over the top layer.
10. Place the top ‘slab’ of rolls over the assembled layers.
11. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
12. Stir in the oregano, parsley, and garlic salt until well combined.
13. Brush the butter mixture evenly over the top of the rolls.
14. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the buttered tops.
15. Cover the pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the rolls.
16. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through.
17. Remove from the oven, slice into individual sliders, and serve immediately.
Enjoy your mouthwatering cheesy pepperoni sliders!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and set aside.
3. Slice the Rolls
Using a large serrated knife, slice the rolls in half horizontally to create a ‘slab’ of tops and a ‘slab’ of bottoms, keeping them connected.
4. Assemble the Bottom Layer
Place the bottom ‘slab’ of rolls in the prepared pan.
5. Add the Marinara Sauce
Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
6. First Layer of Cheese
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Colby Jack cheeses over the sauce.
7. First Layer of Pepperoni
Evenly layer half of the mini pepperoni over the cheese.
8. Repeat the Layers
Repeat the layering with the remaining cheeses and pepperoni.
9. Add Black Olives
Distribute the black olives evenly over the top layer.
10. Place the Top Slab
Place the top ‘slab’ of rolls over the assembled layers.
11. Melt the Butter
In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
12. Mix Herbs and Seasonings
Stir in the oregano, parsley, and garlic salt until well combined.
13. Brush the Butter Mixture
Brush the butter mixture evenly over the top of the rolls.
14. Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the buttered tops.
15. Cover with Aluminum Foil
Cover the pan with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn’t touch the rolls.
16. Bake the Sliders
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through.
17. Slice and Serve
Remove from the oven, slice into individual sliders, and serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredient Adjustments
Feel free to modify the cheese types or quantities based on preference.
Substitutions
You can substitute spicy marinara with regular marinara or another sauce of choice if desired.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, place sliders in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Cook techniques
Slab Cutting
Using a large serrated knife, slice the rolls horizontally to create a connected top and bottom. This technique ensures that the sliders remain intact for layering.
Layering Ingredients
Spread the ingredients in layers, starting with marinara, followed by cheeses, pepperoni, and olives. This method ensures even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the sliders.
Brushing with Butter
Melt the butter and mix it with herbs and garlic salt. Brushing this mixture over the tops of the rolls adds flavor and helps to create a golden, crispy crust.
Covering with Foil
Cover the pan with aluminum foil during the first part of baking. This step helps to retain moisture, ensuring the sliders are heated through without drying out.
Baking Time
Bake at 375°F for 12 to 15 minutes. This temperature and time allow the cheese to melt and integrate well with the other ingredients while preventing the rolls from becoming too hard.
FAQ
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with any cheese that melts well, such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorites.
Can I make these sliders in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them up to the baking stage, cover them, and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of black olives?
If you’re not a fan of olives, you can omit them or replace them with other toppings like diced bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor.
How do I store leftover sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the sliders?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Conclusion
These delicious sliders are a perfect combination of flavors, featuring savory spices, gooey cheese, and an array of toppings that come together for a satisfying meal. They are ideal for parties, game days, or a cozy night in. With their easy preparation and delightful taste, these sliders are sure to be a hit among family and friends.
Mini Meatball Sliders
Use mini meatballs instead of pepperoni for a heartier option. Layer with marinara and mozzarella for a comforting bite.
Vegetarian Delight Sliders
Fill your sliders with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach, combined with feta cheese for a fresh and healthy alternative.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
Substitute the pepperoni with shredded BBQ chicken, and add sliced red onions and cheddar cheese for a smoky twist.
Buffalo Chicken Sliders
Transform the recipe by using shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese dressing, topped with celery for a spicy kick.
Caprese Sliders
Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing Italian-inspired slider.
Cuban Sliders
Use sliced ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles with a mustard spread for an exciting flavor combination inspired by Cuban sandwiches.
