These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are mini sandwiches filled with gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni, all nestled between soft hamburger buns. Perfect for game day or a fun family meal!
Who doesn’t love pizza? These sliders are super easy to make, and they disappear fast! I like to serve them with extra marinara for dipping—yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I recommend using soft slider buns, but you can swap them for regular hamburger buns or even small bagels if you like. Just make sure they’re soft for easy biting!
Pizza Sauce: Store-bought pizza sauce is a time-saver! If you don’t have it, marinara sauce works just as well. For a twist, try pesto or a spicier sauce if you like extra heat.
Pepperoni: This is a classic choice, but you can replace it with turkey pepperoni for a leaner option, or even chopped veggies for a vegetarian slider. Just be sure to keep flavors balanced!
Cheese: Mozzarella is a must for that gooey, melty texture. You can mix it with provolone or cheddar for added flavor. If you want dairy-free, there are great vegan cheese alternatives that melt nicely.
Seasonings: Garlic powder and Italian seasoning give these sliders great flavor. If you’re out of these, try using dried oregano or basil. Fresh herbs really amp up the taste!
How Do I Get the Cheese Extra Gooey?
Getting that ooey-gooey cheese is all about the right technique! When you assemble your sliders, layer the cheese directly on the sauce. Here’s how to ensure maximum meltiness:
- Preheat your oven fully and place the sliders on a baking dish for even heat.
- Brush the tops with butter—it not only adds flavor but also helps brown the bread.
- Covering the dish with foil for the first half of baking traps steam to melt the cheese faster. Remove it for the last few minutes to crisp up the tops!
These simple steps will help you achieve sliders that are not just cheesy, but deliciously satisfying!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or small soft rolls
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 12 slices pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Toppings:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes to enjoy these delightful Pepperoni Pizza Sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sliders bake evenly and become perfectly golden on top.
2. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Take your slider buns and slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves snugly in a baking dish. This is where all the deliciousness will happen!
3. Add the Sauce:
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce or marinara sauce over each bottom bun. Make sure to cover them well, but don’t overdo it—just enough to give great flavor without making them soggy!
4. Layer with Cheese and Pepperoni:
Now, it’s time for the fun part. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on each slider, and then top them with one or two slices of pepperoni. You can layer as much as you like!
5. Close It Up:
Take the top halves of the buns and carefully place them over your pepperoni and cheese layers, creating adorable little sliders.
6. Make the Topping Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This mixture will add lots of flavor and a great color to your sliders.
7. Brush the Butter Mixture:
Using a pastry brush, apply this buttery goodness generously over the tops of the slider buns. Don’t be shy; this is where the flavor comes from!
8. Sprinkle with Cheese and Seasoning:
Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. If you’re feeling spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some extra kick!
9. Baking Time:
Pop the sliders into your preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for the cheese to be bubbly and the tops to turn a lovely golden brown.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh sliced basil over the top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these sliders warm with extra pizza sauce or marinara on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your gooey, savory Pepperoni Pizza Sliders! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Buns Instead of Regular Slider Buns?
Absolutely! Whole wheat buns can add a healthier twist and a nutty flavor to your sliders. Just make sure they’re still soft for the best texture.
How Can I Customize the Toppings?
Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the pepperoni for other toppings like cooked sausage, diced bell peppers, olives, or even a mix of cheeses. The possibilities are endless!
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance and cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap and pop them in the oven as directed. They might need a couple of extra minutes in the oven if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
