Italian Sliders are a mouthwatering combination of classic deli meats, melty provolone cheese, and tangy peppers, all tucked between soft, buttery rolls.
Perfect for parties, game days, or casual dinners, these sliders bring bold Italian flavors to your table in a quick and easy way.
Brushed with a garlic and herb butter topping and baked to golden perfection, they’re an irresistible crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
12 pack rolls, halved lengthwise I recommend Kings Hawaiian rolls
6 oz package of ham, thinly sliced.
5 oz package of salami, thinly sliced
5 oz package of pepperoni, thinly sliced
9 slices provolone cheese.
1/3 cup pepperoncini, sliced
1/3 cup pickled hot cherry peppers, sliced
1/4 cup salted butter, melted.
1 tsp Italian seasoning
2 cloves garlic, crushed I recommend fresh over jarred.
To Serve: (optional)
1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Lay the bottom half of the rolls on a baking sheet or pan. Layer on slices of ham, then top with salami, a layer of pepperoni and a layer of provolone.
Then layer on sliced hot cherry peppers and sliced peperoncini. Replace the top bun and set aside.
In a small bowl, combine melted butter with Italian seasoning and crushed garlic. Mix to combine.
Then brush the seasoned butter mixture over the top of the sliders, being sure to coat all the nooks and crannies.
Cover the sliders with foil then bake at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
Remove from the oven, then slice and enjoy!
Variations and Tips for Italian Sliders:
Variations:
Meat Alternatives: Substitute turkey, roast beef, or mortadella for the traditional deli meats to suit your preferences.
Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella, Swiss, or even a spicy pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meats with roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, along with a hearty spread of pesto or marinara sauce.
Bread Options: Try ciabatta, focaccia, or sourdough rolls if you prefer a heartier bread.
Spicy Kick: Add more heat by including crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños alongside the pepperoncini and cherry peppers.
Herb-Infused Butter: Mix fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme into the butter for a fresher flavor.
Tips:
Prevent Sogginess: Pat the peppers dry with a paper towel before layering them to keep the rolls from becoming soggy.
Even Baking: Cover with foil during baking to ensure the sliders stay moist while the cheese melts evenly. Remove the foil in the last 5 minutes for a golden, crisp top.
Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the sliders a few hours ahead, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Cutting Cleanly: Use a serrated knife to slice the sliders cleanly after baking without pulling apart the layers.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with marinara or a garlic aioli for dipping, and serve alongside a simple salad or chips for a complete meal.
These variations and tips make Italian Sliders versatile and suitable for any occasion, ensuring they’re a hit every time!
To store Italian Sliders properly, follow these steps:
Short-Term Storage: If you plan to eat the leftovers within 1-2 days, cover the sliders tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the sliders individually or as a whole in aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Oven: Reheat refrigerated sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For frozen sliders, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Microwave: Wrap a single slider in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds for a quick reheating option, though this may soften the bread.
Proper storage ensures the sliders maintain their flavor and texture, making them easy to enjoy as leftovers or a make-ahead meal.