Pepperoni pizza sliders are mini sandwiches filled with cheesy goodness and tasty pepperoni. They’re easy to make and perfect for parties or just a fun dinner at home!
These little bites are so delicious that you might be tempted to eat a whole stack! I love serving them with some marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoying them on movie night is a must! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I like using split-top slider buns—they’re perfect for holding all the gooey cheese and toppings. If you can’t find them, regular dinner rolls work well too. Just ensure they’re soft and slightly sweet!
Butter: Melted butter adds a rich flavor. For a lighter option, you can use olive oil, or for a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter substitute.
Italian Seasoning: This brings an amazing herby flavor. If you’re out, you can mix equal parts of dried basil, oregano, and thyme. Fresh herbs can also be used for a more vibrant taste!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella is the star here, but you can combine it with cheddar or provolone for a different twist. Just make sure it melts well!
Pepperoni: If you’re not a fan of pepperoni or want a healthier option, turkey or veggie pepperoni is available. You can also use diced cooked sausage or even roasted vegetables for a fun variation.
How Do I Get My Cheese to Melt Perfectly?
Getting that gooey melted cheese is key to delicious sliders! Here are my tips:
- Make sure to cover the sliders with foil when you first bake them. This traps steam and helps the cheese melt evenly.
- Keep an eye on the sliders during the last few minutes of baking. You want a nice golden color, but watch closely to prevent burning!
- Let the sliders sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven. This helps the cheese set slightly, making them easier to cut and eat!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (split top style)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 cup pizza sauce (marinara or your favorite pizza sauce)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total time of about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a fun party snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your sliders bake evenly and get that perfect melty cheese texture!
2. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns horizontally, but keep them in a block—don’t pull them apart just yet! This way, all the yummy contents will stay together.
3. Mix the Seasoned Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. This flavorful mix will be used to brush on our buns, adding a delicious Italian flair.
4. Build the Bottom Layer:
Place the bottom half of the slider buns on a baking sheet. Using a brush, generously coat the bottoms with the seasoned butter mixture. You’ll want them nice and flavorful!
5. Add the Sauce:
Next, spread your pizza sauce evenly over the bottom half of the buns. Don’t be shy with the sauce—it’s what makes these sliders taste like pizza!
6. Layer the Cheese and Pepperoni:
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Then, add the pepperoni slices over the cheese. Feel free to add as much or as little as you’d like!
7. Assemble the Sliders:
Now it’s time to place the top half of the slider buns on top of the cheese and pepperoni. Brush the tops with any remaining seasoned butter mixture. This will give them a nice golden finish!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese and a little extra Italian seasoning on top. If you like, you can also add fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the sliders loosely with foil and place them in the oven. Bake for about 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and everything to warm through.
10. Get Them Golden Brown:
After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes. This will help the tops get nice and crispy!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut into individual sliders and serve warm with extra pizza sauce or marinara for dipping. They’re best enjoyed fresh, and believe me, everyone will love them!
These sliders are cheesy, saucy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing! Enjoy!
Can I Use Store-Bought Pizza Sauce for the Sliders?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza sauce is a convenient option and can save you time. Just choose your favorite brand or flavor, and feel free to enhance it with some added herbs or spices if desired!
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for a substitution, turkey or veggie pepperoni works great! You can also use cooked sausage, ham, or even a mix of roasted vegetables for a delicious twist.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the sliders, cover them, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go into the oven cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring they are heated through without becoming too dry.
