Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are like having all the best parts of a pizza wrapped up in a little sandwich. Soft slider buns, gooey melted cheese, zesty pepperoni slices, and rich tomato sauce come together for a bite-sized flavor explosion that’s perfect for sharing or snack time. They’re quick to make and sure to please anyone who loves classic pizza flavors.
I love making these sliders whenever we have friends over or when my family wants something fun and easy to eat. They’re great because everyone gets their own little pizza sandwich, and they’re easy to hold while chatting or watching a game. Plus, you can mix it up with extra toppings or use different types of cheese, depending on what you have on hand.
My favorite way to serve Pepperoni Pizza Sliders is right out of the oven, still warm and melty, with a side of marinara for dipping. They’re perfect for parties, game nights, or just a cozy night in. These sliders always bring smiles and make for leftovers that are just as tasty the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft, fluffy buns are essential for the perfect slider. If you can’t find slider buns, dinner rolls or small sandwich buns work well. For a low-carb option, try using lettuce wraps.
Pizza Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought pizza or marinara sauce. If unavailable, tomato sauce mixed with a pinch of dried herbs and garlic powder can be a quick substitute.
Pepperoni: Classic pepperoni adds that spicy, smoky flavor. You can switch to turkey pepperoni for a leaner choice or use sliced salami or cooked Italian sausage for variety.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that gooey pizza feel. If you want, mix in some provolone or cheddar to change up the flavor.
Butter & Seasonings: Brushing butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning makes the tops golden and flavorful. You can swap butter for olive oil if preferred.
How Do I Get Perfectly Melted Cheese without Soggy Buns?
Melting the cheese well while keeping the buns from getting soggy can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce only on the bottom buns to avoid sogginess.
- Add the pepperoni and cheese on top of the sauce, allowing some air to help keep buns dry.
- Cover the sliders with foil during baking to trap heat and melt the cheese without drying out the buns.
- Remove the foil near the end and bake uncovered for a few minutes to crisp the tops perfectly.
This approach keeps your sliders gooey inside but still light and soft to eat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch baking dish – I like this size because it fits the sliders perfectly without crowding.
- Sharp knife – helps you cut the slider buns evenly without squishing the layers.
- Brush or pastry brush – makes spreading the melted butter mixture smooth and even on the buns.
- Aluminum foil – covers the dish while baking to keep the sliders moist and help the cheese melt evenly.
- Grater – for shredding mozzarella cheese and Parmesan if you prefer freshly grated cheese for better flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Different Proteins: Try using cooked Italian sausage or turkey pepperoni for a leaner or different flavor twist.
- Cheese Choices: Mix in provolone or cheddar with mozzarella for extra richness and flavor variation.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Add sliced peppers, mushrooms, or black olives for a veggie boost that complements the pizza flavors.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture for some heat.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Slider Sandwiches:
- 12 slider buns or dinner rolls
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (pizza or marinara sauce)
- 12 oz sliced pepperoni
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoned Butter Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil)
- 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes total baking time, so you’ll have tasty sliders ready in about 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick snack or easy party food!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Buns:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Carefully slice the slider buns in half horizontally without separating the top and bottom. Place all the bottom halves of the buns in a single layer in the baking dish.
2. Add Sauce, Pepperoni, and Cheese:
Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce over the bottom half of each bun. Then, layer slices of pepperoni on top, spreading them evenly. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the pepperoni.
3. Top and Season the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the buns on top of each sandwich. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this flavorful butter mixture over the tops of the slider buns. If you want, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.
4. Bake Until Warm and Melty:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for about 15 minutes. This helps melt the cheese and warm everything through. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to let the buns get golden and crisp on top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Take the sliders out of the oven and, if you like, sprinkle them with fresh parsley or dried Italian herbs. Serve warm with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, gooey Pepperoni Pizza Sliders!
Can I Use Frozen Slider Buns?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before assembling the sliders. Leave them at room temperature for about an hour or defrost them in the microwave for a few seconds on low power.
Can I Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders and store them in the fridge covered with plastic wrap or foil. When ready, bake them as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to keep the cheese melty and the buns soft.
Can I Add Other Toppings to These Sliders?
Definitely! Feel free to add veggies like sliced bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap in different cheeses like provolone or cheddar to customize your sliders to your taste.