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Pizza sliders are my answer to any hunger emergency. They are fast crowd-pleasers that let you get creative with toppings and make even a weeknight feel special. Whether you are hosting a birthday party or just need something the kids will devour, pizza sliders hit the spot with gooey cheese and soft bread in every bite.
Honestly I have pulled these sliders out of the oven to the cheers of my family more times than I can count. There is never a leftover and the best part is you can make them your own every time.
Ingredients
- Hawaiian dinner rolls: Soft sweet rolls that hold up under sauce and cheese Seek out the ones with a shiny top and no cracks so they slice cleanly.
- Freshly shredded mozzarella: Nothing beats the melt of freshly grated cheese off the block Avoid the pre-shredded stuff for best pull
- Jarred marinara or pizza sauce: Choose a rich tomato sauce you’d want to dunk breadsticks in I always smell it before buying to check for that fresh tomato aroma
- Unsalted butter melted: Adds a rich finish and helps the topping stick Use real butter for optimum flavor
- Grated parmesan cheese: Brings a salty punch and gorgeous golden look Grate it fresh or look for a tub in the deli section
- Dried Italian seasoning: Lends herby complexity Crush it gently in your palm for extra aroma
- Optional toppings like pepperoni cooked sausage or veggies: Your chance to get creative I love spicy pepperoni and sweet bell peppers but you can set up a toppings bar for everyone
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prep:
- Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Slice and Layer Bottoms:
- With a long bread knife, carefully slice all the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the slab whole. Arrange the bottom half on your lined baking sheet so they are snug together.
- First Cheese Layer:
- Scatter two cups of freshly shredded mozzarella all over the cut side of the rolls. Press the cheese gently into the bread so it stays in place.
- Sauce and Toppings:
- Spoon the marinara or pizza sauce carefully over the cheese, spreading to the edges. Now is the time to add your favorite toppings such as pepperoni, cooked sausage, or finely diced mushrooms and peppers. Layer them evenly so every slider gets a taste.
- Second Cheese Layer and Tops:
- Sprinkle the remaining two cups of mozzarella evenly over the toppings. Carefully place the top half of the rolls over everything to create a giant sandwich slab.
- Buttering and Seasoning Top:
- Brush the tops of the rolls with the melted butter. Get into every crevice for a thorough coat. Sprinkle Parmesan and dried Italian seasoning across the buttered rolls.
- Bake Covered:
- Cover the baking sheet tightly with aluminum foil and place in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt evenly and everything to heat through.
- Finish and Brown Tops:
- Remove the foil after 25 minutes. Return the pan to the oven uncovered for a few more minutes until the tops are golden and fragrant.
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Mozzarella is my weakness here as it creates that iconic cheese pull everyone loves. The first time I made these for our Friday movie night my youngest declared them better than pizza delivery and honestly I think that is true once you taste them fresh from your oven.
Storage Tips
Once cooled you can transfer leftover sliders into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat just pop them in a warm oven until the cheese is gooey again. You can also wrap unbaked sliders tightly and freeze them for up to one month then bake straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes in the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use any soft dinner rolls you like but Hawaiian rolls add an extra touch of sweetness. For a cheesier flavor swap some mozzarella for provolone. If you want extra flavor stir a little garlic powder into the melted butter before brushing.
Serving Suggestions
Set out bowls of extra marinara for dipping or a simple green salad to lighten up the meal. For parties divide the rolls before serving so guests can pull them apart easily. A side of fruit or crunchy veggies makes these feel like a fun meal.
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Cultural or Historical Context
Pizza sliders combine classic American slider hospitality with the flavors of Italian-American pizza. The sweet Hawaiian rolls give a nod to the 1950s bakery trends while the toppings can be traced to classic pizzeria styles. I love how this dish lets everyone make food memories by sharing and reaching in together.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of rolls for the base?
Yes, while Hawaiian rolls add sweetness and softness, you can substitute with brioche, slider buns, or any dinner rolls for a different flavor or texture.
- → What are some popular topping options?
Classic choices include pepperoni, cooked sausage, sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms, or even fresh spinach to customize each slider to your taste.
- → How do I prevent sliders from becoming soggy?
Spread sauce evenly and avoid adding too much. Toasting the rolls slightly before assembling can also help maintain structure.
- → Can these be prepared ahead of time?
You can assemble sliders a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to keep them fresh and melty.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through and cheese is melty.