Pizza Sliders

These Pizza Sliders are the ultimate party appetizer or quick weeknight dinner! Made with soft, buttery slider buns layered with melty mozzarella cheese, savory pizza sauce, and your favorite toppings, they’re baked until golden and gooey. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving cheesy pizza goodness in a fun, shareable form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• Cheesy and delicious – Loaded with melted cheese, pepperoni, and classic pizza flavors.
• Customizable – Add your favorite pizza toppings for endless variations.
• Perfect for parties – Easy to serve and great for feeding a crowd.
• Kid-friendly – A hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
• Pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Pepperoni slices
• Olive oil or melted butter
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Optional toppings: cooked sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, black olives, onions, or fresh basil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:
   • Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Assemble the sliders:
   • Slice the slider buns in half horizontally (keeping them attached if using Hawaiian rolls).
   • Place the bottom half of the buns in the baking dish.
   • Spread a layer of pizza sauce over the buns.
   • Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, then your desired toppings (pepperoni, sausage, veggies, etc.).
   • Place the top half of the buns back on.
3. Prepare the topping:
   • Mix melted butter or olive oil with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
   • Brush the mixture generously over the top of the buns.
4. Bake:
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Let the sliders cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy them warm for the best cheesy pull!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 sliders
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Supreme Sliders: Add mushrooms, green peppers, onions, and black olives for a fully loaded pizza flavor.
• Meat Lover’s Sliders: Add crumbled sausage, bacon bits, and extra pepperoni.
• Vegetarian Sliders: Skip the meat and pile on veggies like spinach, tomatoes, mushrooms, and olives.
• Hawaiian Sliders: Add sliced ham and pineapple for a tropical twist.
• Spicy Sliders: Add jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze sliders individually by wrapping them in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm the sliders in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 30–45 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use different cheese?

Yes, you can use cheddar, provolone, or a blend of cheeses based on your preference.

What’s the best bread for pizza sliders?

Soft slider buns or Hawaiian rolls work best for this recipe, but any small, soft roll will do.

Can I make pizza sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sliders (without baking) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

How do I prevent the bottoms from getting soggy?

Lightly toast the bottom half of the buns in the oven before adding the sauce and toppings.

Can I use marinara sauce instead of pizza sauce?

Yes, marinara sauce works well and adds a slightly different flavor.

Can I make these sliders gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free slider buns and ensure all toppings and sauces are gluten-free.

Do I need to cover the sliders while baking?

Covering the sliders for the first half of baking prevents the tops from getting too brown before the cheese melts.

Can I add fresh herbs?

Absolutely! Add fresh basil, oregano, or parsley after baking for extra flavor.

What toppings work best for kids?

Stick to classic toppings like pepperoni, plain cheese, or mild sausage for kid-friendly sliders.

Can I use frozen rolls?

Yes, just thaw the rolls according to the package instructions before assembling the sliders.

Conclusion

These Pizza Sliders are the perfect combination of cheesy, savory, and satisfying. Whether you’re serving them for a party, game night, or a quick family dinner, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to customize and even easier to make, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite for pizza lovers of all ages!

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