Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe

Craving a fun and delicious twist on traditional pizza? Look no further than these mouthwatering Cheesy Pizza Sliders! Packed with Italian sausage, pepperoni, gooey mozzarella, and zesty pizza sauce, these sliders baked to perfection on sweet Hawaiian rolls will surely steal the show at your next gathering. The secret sauce here (literally!) lies in the buttery garlic glaze that elevates the flavors and textures to create a party in your mouth.

As these Cheesy Pizza Sliders bake, the kitchen fills with irresistible aromas that will have everyone eagerly waiting to dig in. The sweet Hawaiian rolls not only provide a pleasing contrast to the savory toppings but also make these sliders a convenient grab-and-go option for any occasion. Whether it’s game night or a cozy family dinner, these sliders are bound to disappear fast, thanks to their irresistible combination of flavors and the perfect cheesy melt that your taste buds will thank you for. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a slice (or a slider) of pizza heaven!

Quick Benefits

• Convenient and perfect for parties – prepare in advance and bake when guests arrive
• Customizable toppings – make them your own by switching up ingredients
• Sweet Hawaiian rolls add a unique touch that complements savory pizza elements
• Butter-garlic coating transforms simple rolls into irresistible, pizzeria-style sliders

Why You’ll Love This Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe Recipe

• Convenience and Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for parties, game nights, or gatherings – easy to prep ahead and bake when needed.
• Irresistible Aroma: Kitchen fills with the smell of buttery garlic and gooey cheese, reminiscent of pizzeria vibes.
• Innovative Twist on Pizza: Hawaiian rolls bring a touch of sweetness that complements the savory pizza elements beautifully.
• Customizable Toppings: You can switch up the toppings to suit your taste preferences, making them your own.
• Mouthwatering Flavor: Layers of stretchy mozzarella, flavorful meats, zesty pizza sauce, and herbs create a delicious and satisfying flavor profile.
• Tips for Best Results: Pro tips on using quality ingredients, proper assembly, baking techniques, and serving suggestions ensure a perfect outcome every time.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep up to 4 hours in advance and bake when needed, making it a convenient option for busy schedules.
• Leftover Friendly: Store leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven for gooey, cheesy goodness.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Cut with a pizza cutter, add extra herbs for flavor, and handle veggies smartly to customize and elevate the sliders.
• Family Favorite: A unique and delicious dish that combines the comfort of pizza with the convenience of sliders, bringing everyone together around the table.

Ingredients for Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe

Base

• 24 slices of pepperoni
• 6 oz Italian sausage
• 12 connected Hawaiian rolls

Cheese and Sauce

• 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce, split into two portions, plus extra for dipping
• 3 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated fresh
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella (add half first, save the rest)

Garlic Butter Topping

• A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp powdered garlic
• 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley, fresh
• 1/4 cup melted salted butter
• 1/2 tsp Italian herbs

Pro Tips for Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe

For the best results, consider shredding your own mozzarella cheese from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese. This will ensure a smoother melt and better texture in your Cheesy Pizza Sliders. Additionally, using Italian herbs between the cheese layers can add an extra burst of flavor to each bite, enhancing the overall taste of the sliders.

When preparing your Hawaiian Sweet Rolls for the sliders, make sure to keep them connected when cutting. The sweetness of the rolls complements the savory toppings perfectly and helps elevate the flavors of the dish. Also, when adding veggies as toppings, it’s recommended to cook them beforehand to remove excess water and prevent the sliders from becoming soggy during baking. These pro tips will help you achieve delicious and perfectly balanced Cheesy Pizza Sliders that are sure to impress your guests!

How to Make Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 pan with foil or parchment paper and coat with cooking spray. Brown the sausage in a skillet until cooked through, then drain excess fat.

Step 2: Step 02

Using a serrated blade, slice the rolls horizontally through the middle while keeping them intact. Transfer the bottom layer to a baking dish.

Step 3: Step 03

Evenly spread 1/2 cup of sauce over the bottom rolls. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top. Arrange the pepperoni slices and sausage, then top with the remaining mozzarella.

Step 4: Step 04

Spread the remaining 1/2 cup of sauce on the inside of the top rolls and place them back on top of the cheese and meat to assemble the sandwich.

Step 5: Step 05

Mix melted butter with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes. Brush mixture over the top of the rolls and sprinkle with parsley.

Step 6: Step 06

Cover the pan with foil and bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes for crispy tops. Serve hot with extra sauce for dipping.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Cheesy Pizza Sliders, place any leftovers in a sealed container and refrigerate them. They can last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, wrap the sliders in foil and warm them in a 350°F oven until they are heated through and the cheese becomes gooey again. This method helps retain the flavors and textures of the sliders, ensuring they taste just as delicious as when they were freshly baked.

Additionally, if you have prepared the sliders ahead of time and kept them in the fridge before baking, remember to add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time to ensure they are heated through. Let the sliders sit for 2-3 minutes after baking before cutting them apart. This helps the cheese firm up slightly, preventing it from running out when you cut the sliders. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy these delightful Pizza Sliders with their gooey cheese and flavorful toppings for a few days after making them.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the Italian sausage and pepperoni with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or any of your favorite pizza toppings. This will still provide a flavorful and satisfying filling for your sliders.

If you prefer a different type of cheese, feel free to experiment with alternatives like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Just make sure the cheese melts well to achieve that gooey texture that makes these sliders irresistible.

Remember that recipes are flexible, and you can always customize them to your liking. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the garlic butter mixture for an extra burst of flavor, or even drizzle some honey or sprinkle some chili flakes for a unique twist. Cooking is all about creativity, so don’t be afraid to make these sliders your own!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the Cheesy Pizza Sliders experience, consider serving them on a large platter garnished with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. You can also offer a variety of dipping sauces alongside the warm pizza sauce, such as creamy ranch dressing, tangy marinara, or spicy Sriracha mayo, to cater to different flavor preferences and add an interactive element to the meal. These sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering, offering a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pizza in a convenient and shareable format.

For a fun and interactive serving suggestion, create a DIY Pizza Slider bar by setting up a toppings station with an assortment of ingredients like diced bell peppers, sliced olives, caramelized onions, and crispy bacon. Allow guests to customize their sliders with their favorite toppings before baking, giving them a personalized and hands-on experience. This interactive approach not only adds a creative touch to the meal but also allows everyone to tailor their sliders to their taste preferences, making it a memorable and enjoyable dining experience for all.

FAQs for Ultimate Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella for the Pizza Sliders?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of your favorites to customize the sliders to your taste.

Can I make these Pizza Sliders vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make vegetarian Pizza Sliders by omitting the Italian sausage and pepperoni, and adding in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives as toppings.

Can I prepare the Pizza Sliders in advance and bake them later?

Yes, you can assemble the Pizza Sliders up to 4 hours ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and then add the garlic butter before baking. Just adjust the covered baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

How should I store leftover Pizza Sliders?

Store any extra Pizza Sliders in a sealed container in the refrigerator where they will last up to 3 days. Reheat them by wrapping in foil and warming in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese becomes gooey again.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these delectable Cheesy Pizza Sliders with your loved ones. Embrace the sweet-meets-savory magic of Hawaiian rolls and the irresistible combination of gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and flavorful toppings. Whether it’s for a gathering or just a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

Remember, cooking is an adventure, so feel free to get creative with your toppings and make these sliders your own masterpiece. The secret ingredient is always a sprinkle of love and a dash of enthusiasm. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in the cheesy goodness of these Cheesy Pizza Sliders. Happy cooking!