Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders: Mini Pizzas with Big Flavor 🍕✨

1. Introduction

Pizza and sliders are two comfort foods that universally bring people together, whether it’s at parties, game nights, or family dinners. These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders combine the best of both worlds: soft, buttery slider buns topped with marinara sauce, gooey mozzarella cheese, spicy pepperoni, and a garlicky herb butter drizzle. The result is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, planning snacks for a Super Bowl party, or simply craving a comforting meal, these sliders are sure to satisfy. Their miniature size makes them perfect for feeding a group without the hassle of individual servings. For more pizza-inspired recipes, explore our pickle pizza recipe here.

2. What Are Pepperoni Pizza Sliders?

These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are a celebration of layered flavors reminiscent of classic pizza, all packed into a convenient, bite-sized format. Fans love this dish not only for its rich taste but also for its connection to fast-food-inspired recipes—it’s ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or entertaining guests. Its adaptability allows for endless customization, making it suitable for adding toppings like sausage, mushrooms, or spinach for extra variety. Dive deeper into its charm here.

3. Ingredients List (Exact Measurements)

To craft these delicious sliders, gather:

For the Sliders:

• 12 dinner rolls (or slider buns)
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 24 slices of pepperoni (or more, depending on preference)

For the Garlic Herb Butter Topping:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-Ins:

• Sliced black olives
• Diced green bell peppers
• Crumbled cooked Italian sausage

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a serrated knife, slice a pack of 12 dinner rolls in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms intact as one piece. Place the bottom half of the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased foil. For tips on working with dinner rolls, visit our corn dog recipe here.

Assembling the Sliders

Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Top with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese, spreading it to cover the sauce. Arrange 24 slices of pepperoni (or more, if desired) over the cheese. If using optional add-ins like sliced black olives, diced green bell peppers, or crumbled Italian sausage, layer them on top of the pepperoni. Place the top half of the rolls over the assembled sliders, pressing gently to secure everything together. For more assembly tips, check our mousse cake recipe here.

Making the Garlic Herb Butter Topping

In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (if using), and 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the tops of the assembled sliders, ensuring the butter seeps into the crevices for maximum flavor. For more topping ideas, visit our no-bake dessert shots recipe here.

Baking the Sliders

Bake the sliders in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the rolls are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing into individual sliders. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. More baking tips here.

5. Variations and Substitutions

• Vegan Option: Use plant-based cheese, marinara sauce, and vegan dinner rolls.
• Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute dinner rolls with gluten-free bread or rolls.
• Flavor Variations: Swap marinara for Alfredo sauce or add caramelized onions for extra depth.
• Add-Ins: Incorporate ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, bacon bits, or jalapeños for variety.
• Serving Size: Double the recipe for larger gatherings or events.

For more variations, check out our summer drink recipes here.

6. Nutritional Information

Each serving contains approximately 280 calories:

• Carbs: 25g
• Fats: 14g
• Proteins: 10g

Rich in carbs and fats—perfect for a hearty snack!

7. FAQs Section

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara?
A: Yes, pizza sauce works well and adds a slightly sweeter flavor.

Q: How far in advance can I prepare these sliders?
A: Assemble the sliders up to 1 day ahead; refrigerate and bake just before serving.

Q: Can I freeze these sliders?
A: Yes, freeze unbaked sliders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: What can I substitute for dinner rolls?
A: Hawaiian rolls, ciabatta bread, or even sliced baguette work well for a similar texture.

8. Conclusion

These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders bring the comforting flavors of pizza to life in a convenient, bite-sized format, perfect for parties, game nights, or quick meals. Share your creations using #PizzaSliders and tag us! Questions? Comment below. For more recipes, visit our snack hub. Keep experimenting, and savor the joy of crafting delicious comfort food at home! 🍕✨

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