Get ready to transform your game day spread or weeknight dinner with these irresistible Pepperoni Pizza Sliders! These handheld delights pack all the flavors of your favorite pizza into adorable, pull-apart sliders that disappear within minutes of hitting the table. The combination of gooey cheese, zesty pepperoni, and buttery, garlic-kissed rolls creates the perfect bite every time.
What makes these sliders truly special is how they bring people together. There’s something magical about watching friends and family gather around a tray of these mini sandwiches, pulling them apart with excitement. They’re casual enough for a Tuesday night dinner but special enough to be the star of any gathering.
Why You’ll Love This
- Quick 45-minute preparation from start to finish – perfect for busy weeknights
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings and cheeses
- Kid-friendly and guaranteed to please even picky eaters
- Can be prepped ahead and baked just before serving
Ingredients
- 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls recommended for sweet-savory flavor)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce, plus extra for dipping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (mini pepperonis work best for even distribution)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray or oil.
- Slice the slider buns horizontally as a single slab (keeping them connected). Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the bottom layer of buns. Layer with half the mozzarella, all the pepperoni slices, then the remaining mozzarella. Place the top half of the buns over the fillings.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the buns.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake about 15 minutes until cheese is melted. Remove foil and bake 5 more minutes until tops are golden and slightly crispy.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Let cool slightly, cut into individual sliders, and serve with extra marinara for dipping.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetarian option: Skip the pepperoni and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions instead.
- Meat lover’s version: Add cooked Italian sausage or bacon bits along with the pepperoni.
- For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of ranch dressing on the inside of the top half of rolls.
- Make ahead: Assemble the sliders up to 24 hours in advance, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve (may need extra 5 minutes baking time).
- For crispier tops, brush with a beaten egg before adding the butter mixture.
- Use slider-sized pepperoni if available for more even distribution.
Serving Suggestions
These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders pair perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a cup of tomato soup for the ultimate pizza-grilled cheese combo experience.
Set out small bowls of extra warm pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter for dipping to take these sliders to the next level. For a party spread, place them on a platter surrounded by antipasto favorites like marinated olives, artichoke hearts, and roasted red peppers.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through (avoid microwave which can make them soggy).
- Look for rolls that are connected to each other for the best slider experience.
- The sliders are done when cheese is fully melted and tops are golden brown.
FAQs
Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian sweet rolls?
Yes, any connected dinner rolls will work, though the sweet Hawaiian rolls provide a nice contrast to the savory fillings.
How do I prevent the bottoms from getting soggy?
Try sprinkling a thin layer of cheese on the bottom rolls before adding the sauce to create a barrier.
Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes! Assemble completely (except for the butter topping), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add butter mixture, and bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What’s the best way to transport these to a potluck?
Bake them in a disposable aluminum pan, cover with foil, and wrap in a towel to keep warm. They’re still delicious at room temperature too!
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