Name: Italian Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced in half horizontally; 12 slices provolone cheese; 5 oz thin-sliced deli ham; 2 oz sliced salami; 2 oz sliced pepperoni; 8 oz roasted red peppers, drained and patted dry (optional); 8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1½ tsp dried minced onion; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp dried parsley; ½ tsp Italian seasoning; ¼ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; Optional grated Parmesan cheese; Optional marinara sauce for dipping

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If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that blends savory deli meats, melty cheese, and a buttery, herby finish inside soft, sweet rolls, these Italian Sliders are about to steal your heart (and your party table). With their irresistible layers, gooey provolone, zesty peppers, and an unbelievably flavorful topping, these sliders are as fun to assemble as they are to eat. They’re perfect for gatherings, game days, or satisfying a family craving for something epic and hand-held. There’s no way you’ll have leftovers for long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Italian Sliders requires only a handful of simple ingredients, but each brings its own magic. Every component is essential to crafting the sliders’ rich, satisfying taste and signature texture—get ready for a flavor-packed bite in every mouthful!

Hawaiian sweet rolls: Their pillowy texture and gentle sweetness are the perfect contrast to the savory fillings.
Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the meats and keeps everything creamy and cohesive.
Deli ham: Adds a mild, salty backbone and classic Italian sub flavor.
Sliced salami: Brings a touch of spice and rich, meaty depth.
Sliced pepperoni: Offers a familiar punch of flavor and slight heat—think of your favorite pizzeria bite.
Roasted red peppers (optional): Juicy, sweet, and vibrant—they brighten up the sliders; just be sure they’re well-dried to avoid sogginess.
Unsalted butter (melted): Soaks into the rolls for extra richness and flavor.
Dried minced onion: Gives a subtle hint of savory sweetness that infuses the whole batch.
Garlic powder: Because Italian Sliders simply aren’t right without a kiss of garlic.
Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb, just a sprinkle brings authenticity.
Dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and gentle herbal note.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs to tie everything together with classic Mediterranean flavor.
Salt: Balances the buttery, cheesy richness perfectly.
Black pepper: Just enough for a tinge of warmth.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): A savory, crispy garnish for the ultimate golden crust.
Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping): Invites dunking and makes every bite feel extra indulgent.

How to Make Italian Sliders

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lining up everything in advance streamlines assembly and ensures your Italian Sliders bake evenly with beautifully golden edges.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Without separating the individual rolls, carefully slice the whole package horizontally through the center. This keeps your bottom and top layers intact for neater, easier stacking and serving.

Step 3: Make the Flavorful Butter Mixture

Combine melted butter, dried minced onion, garlic powder, oregano, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. This aromatic concoction is the secret to irresistibly buttery, herb-coated sliders.

Step 4: Layer the Bottom Half and Add Cheese

Place the bottom half of the rolls in your prepared baking dish. Brush about 2 tablespoons of the herbed butter mixture over the cut side—this guarantees a rich, savory base. Then, layer on half the provolone cheese slices for a gooey, cheesy foundation.

Step 5: Build the Meat and Veggie Layers

Start stacking! Layer the ham, salami, pepperoni, and, if you’re feeling bold, roasted red peppers. Each layer brings a new texture and a boost of flavor. Finish this stage with the rest of the provolone to seal the fillings inside.

Step 6: Close It Up and Add the Topping

Gently place the top half of the rolls over the layered fillings. Brush the tops and sides generously with the remaining butter mixture—get into every nook so every bite is packed with flavor. For an extra special finish, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This steams the sliders so everything inside gets hot and melty. Remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes, watching for when the tops turn golden and the cheese bubbles over slightly.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Once out of the oven, let your Italian Sliders cool for just a few moments, then slice along the roll seams into individual sliders. Serve warm and, if you like, with marinara sauce on the side for that ultimate dunkable appetizer experience.

How to Serve Italian Sliders

Garnishes

For a final flourish, sprinkle a bit of extra Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley over the sliders right before serving. If you like a little heat, scatter some crushed red pepper flakes. A brush of melted butter at the end makes them gleam and taste even more decadent.

Side Dishes

These Italian Sliders pair beautifully with crisp salads, garlic parmesan fries, or a platter of fresh veggies and ranch dip. For a heartier meal, serve them alongside a simple tomato soup or classic minestrone. They shine at parties but can totally anchor a casual weeknight dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the sliders on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of marinara, pesto, or creamy Italian dressing for dipping. For a party, spear each slider with a decorative toothpick for easy grabbing. You can even offer a build-your-own slider bar with extra toppings nearby—think olives, banana peppers, or arugula for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Italian Sliders left (which is rare in my house!), simply let them cool to room temperature, cover snugly, and refrigerate. They stay delicious for up to 3 days—just be sure to store in an airtight container or wrap to keep the bread from drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, Italian Sliders freeze surprisingly well. Wrap each cooled slider individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months and are perfect for popping out one or two at a time for a quick snack or lunch.

Reheating

To bring leftover or frozen sliders back to their gooey, toasty best, preheat your oven to 325°F. Remove any plastic wrap, but keep them loosely wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. Heat for 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through and melty again. Microwaving is fast but can make the bread soggy—trust me, the oven is worth the couple extra minutes.

FAQs

Can I assemble Italian Sliders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire pan a day in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and bake just before serving. Wait to add the buttery topping until right before baking for the best texture.

What if I don’t have roasted red peppers?

They’re optional, so you can leave them out if you don’t have any on hand. If desired, sub in thin slices of tomato or a handful of pepperoncini for a briny kick. The Italian Sliders will still be amazing.

Can I use a different type Appetizer, Main Course, Snack

Definitely! Provolone is classic, but mozzarella, fontina, or Swiss work wonderfully. Go with your cheese-loving instincts—just choose a good melter for the best results.

How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

The key is to dry your roasted peppers thoroughly and avoid excess moisture in any toppings. Also, serving them fresh from the oven (or reheating in the oven) keeps the bread just the right level of toasty and soft.

Are Italian Sliders suitable for a crowd?

Yes—one batch makes 12 sliders, but you can easily double or even triple the recipe for a party. Prepare multiple pans ahead, and bake just before serving for hot, cheesy, irresistible snacks everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

Once you make these Italian Sliders, you’ll see why they’ve become a regular request in so many kitchens. They’re fun to assemble, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing. Whether it’s game day, a potluck, or just a cozy family night in, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it for a second!

Italian Sliders Recipe

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4.5 from 11 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Italian Sliders are a delicious twist on traditional sliders, featuring layers of provolone cheese, deli meats, and flavorful seasonings baked to perfection on sweet Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for parties or a flavorful snack!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Sliders:

12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced in half horizontally
12 slices provolone cheese
5 oz thin-sliced deli ham
2 oz sliced salami
2 oz sliced pepperoni
8 oz roasted red peppers, drained and patted dry (optional)

For the Butter Mixture:

8 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1½ tsp dried minced onion
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried parsley
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper

For Topping:

Optional grated Parmesan cheese
Optional marinara sauce for dipping

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Sliders: Slice the rolls in half horizontally without separating them. Place the bottom layer into the prepared baking dish.
Make the Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, dried minced onion, garlic powder, oregano, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Brush about 2 tablespoons of this mixture over the cut side of the bottom rolls.
Layer the Sliders: Layer half of the provolone cheese slices over the rolls, followed by ham, salami, pepperoni, and roasted red peppers if using. Top with remaining provolone slices. Place the top layer of rolls over the filling.
Bake the Sliders: Brush the tops and sides of the sliders with the remaining butter mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
Serve: Slice into individual sliders and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.