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These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders bring all the fun of pizza to a handheld size, perfect for parties or a casual family dinner. The combination of gooey cheese, flavorful pepperoni, and tangy marinara sauce on soft Hawaiian rolls creates a crowd-pleasing snack that disappears fast.
I first made these sliders for a game day gathering and they were the hit of the party. Now they are my go to when I want something quick but satisfying.
Ingredients
- Hawaiian rolls: These sweet and soft rolls balance the savory toppings and hold everything together well. Look for fresh ones that are fluffy and slightly sweet.
- Marinara sauce: Adds a tangy and rich base flavor. Choose a good quality sauce or make your own with fresh tomatoes and herbs for extra freshness.
- Pepperoni Slices: Provide a traditional pizza flavor with a little spice and chew. Opt for the classic kind or turkey pepperoni if you want something lighter.
- Shredded mozzarella: This melts beautifully and gives that classic gooey pizza cheese pull. Fresh shredded works best for texture.
- Grated Parmesan: Adds a sharp, nutty finish to the cheese mix so don’t skip it.
Instructions
- Slicing and layering:
- Prepare by slicing each Hawaiian roll in half horizontally and place the bottoms evenly in a baking dish to form a base.
- Saucing:
- Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce over the bottom halves to coat them well. This ensures every bite is saucy and flavorful.
- Adding toppings:
- Lay one slice of pepperoni on top of the sauce for that classic pizza punch. Then sprinkle a mix of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pepperoni.
- Assembling the sliders:
- Place the tops of the rolls back on to create a neat sandwich.
- Baking:
- Heat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the sliders for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. This melts all the flavors together and warms the rolls just right.
Mozzarella is my favorite part because it creates that irresistible cheesy stretch every time. One game night, I accidentally doubled the cheese by mistake, and it instantly became a family tradition to go extra cheesy.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven to keep the bread from drying out. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that fresh baked texture.
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find Hawaiian rolls, soft dinner rolls or slider buns work well too. Try other meats such as cooked sausage or ham in place of pepperoni. Mozzarella can be swapped for provolone or a mozzarella blend for a slightly different flavor.
Serving suggestions
Serve your sliders with a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping. A crisp garden salad or some veggie sticks make a great fresh contrast. Pair with a cold soda or sparkling water for a quick and satisfying meal.
These pepperoni pizza sliders are easy to scale up for a crowd and simple to customize. They make a reliable go to for parties and weeknight dinners.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → What type of rolls work best for these sliders?
Soft Hawaiian rolls are ideal as they hold the toppings well and provide a slightly sweet contrast to the savory ingredients.
- → Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, cheeses like provolone or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can add different flavors and still melt nicely.
- → Is marinara sauce necessary for these sliders?
Marinara adds moisture and tang that complements the pepperoni and cheese, enhancing overall flavor and preventing dryness.
- → How should I assemble the sliders for best results?
Slice rolls in half, spread sauce evenly on the bottom halves, layer pepperoni slices, sprinkle cheeses, then cover with tops before baking.
- → Can these sliders be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead and refrigerate, then bake right before serving to keep them fresh and warm.