These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are cheesy, meaty, and oh-so-simple to make! With layers of delicious Italian meats and melted cheese, they’re a perfect party snack.
I love whipping these up when I have friends over; they vanish faster than I can say “more cheese, please!” Serve them warm for the best gooey goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Rolls: I recommend using Hawaiian rolls for their sweetness and soft texture. You can also opt for classic dinner rolls or even whole wheat for a healthier option.
Italian Meats: The combo of salami, pepperoni, and ham is classic! But if you’re looking for a lighter option, try turkey or chicken lunch meat. Vegetarian? Consider marinated artichokes and roasted bell peppers!
Provolone Cheese: Provolone adds great flavor, but mozzarella or gouda can work just as well if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure it melts nicely!
Roasted Red Peppers: These add a sweet, smoky flavor. If you’re short on time, jarred roasted peppers are a great shortcut. Fresh bell peppers will work too; just sauté them first.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brightens the sliders, but dried Italian seasoning is a fine replacement if fresh isn’t available. Just use a bit less as dried is stronger!
How Do I Make Sure My Sliders Are Extra Tasty?
The key to tasty sliders starts with those layers! Begin with the right preparation. Make sure to spread that mayo mixture evenly; it adds creaminess and flavor.
- When layering the meats, don’t skimp—enough is important for that delicious bite.
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier spreading and melting during baking.
- Don’t forget to cover them with foil while baking—I find this keeps them nice and moist!
For that finishing touch, broil the sliders for a minute at the end of baking if you like a crispier top. Keep an eye on them though; they can go from golden to burnt quickly!
How to Make Hot Italian Sub Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider sandwich rolls (dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls work well)
- 6 oz sliced salami
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- 6 oz sliced ham
- 6 oz sliced provolone cheese
- 1 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or Italian seasoning)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
Optional Additions:
- Sliced pickles or banana peppers for extra tang
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time. So, in about 35 minutes, you can have warm, cheesy Hot Italian Sub Sliders ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to get it ready for the sliders.
2. Preparing the Rolls:
Take the slider rolls and slice them horizontally, but be careful not to cut all the way through. You want them to stay connected as one piece!
3. Making the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic powder, black pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This mix will bring great flavor to your sliders!
4. Spreading the Sauce:
Spread the mayo mixture evenly on both the top and bottom halves of the rolls. Make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.
5. Layering the Meats and Cheese:
On the bottom half of the rolls, layer the sliced salami, pepperoni, and ham. Follow with a layer of provolone cheese for that melty goodness!
6. Adding the Toppings:
Now it’s time to add the fresh toppings! Place evenly sliced tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and chopped basil on top of the cheese layer.
7. Closing the Sliders:
Carefully place the top half of the rolls back on to cover the fillings. This is where all the deliciousness gets snugly packed in!
8. Seasoning the Top:
Sprinkle the remaining Italian seasoning over the top of the rolls for a burst of flavor.
9. Baking Time:
Cover the entire dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are slightly toasted. Foil keeps everything nice and moist!
10. Browning the Top:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to get a nice golden brown top if you like it crispy!
11. Serving the Sliders:
Once they’re done baking, let them cool for a few minutes. Then, slice them apart and serve warm. Enjoy your tasty sliders!
These sliders combine savory Italian meats, melted provolone, and flavorful roasted peppers and basil inside soft rolls for a delicious, party-friendly hot sandwich!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to make it vegetarian, use marinated artichokes, olives, or roasted vegetables instead of meat.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance. Just cover with foil and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes until they are heated through.
Can I Freeze These Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze assembled sliders! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as per the instructions.
