Cheesy Pizza Party Sliders

These cheesy pizza sliders transform ordinary Hawaiian rolls into an irresistible party favorite that captures all the flavors of pizza in bite-sized form. The combination of melty cheese, zesty sauce, and savory pepperoni tucked inside soft, buttery rolls creates a crowd-pleasing treat that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

I first made these sliders for a last-minute Super Bowl party when I needed something quick but impressive. The entire tray vanished before halftime and now they're requested at every gathering I host.

Ingredients

• King's Hawaiian rolls provides the perfect sweet contrast to the savory fillings
• Pizza sauce choose a thick variety for less soggy results
• Mozzarella cheese freshly shredded works better than pre-packaged for optimal meltiness
• Pepperoni thin sliced variety crisps up nicely
• Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the final dish
• Garlic powder infuses the butter topping with aromatic flavor
• Italian seasoning adds classic pizza herb notes throughout
• Parmesan cheese creates a savory crust on top when baked
• Salt and pepper balances all flavors perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F ensuring it reaches full temperature. Lightly coat your 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy serving later.

Prepare the Rolls

Using a large serrated knife slice the entire package of Hawaiian rolls horizontally while keeping them connected. This technique allows you to work with two large pieces rather than individual rolls making assembly much quicker. Place the bottom half of the rolls into your prepared baking dish.

Layer the Fillings

Spread pizza sauce evenly across the bottom half of rolls using about half the sauce. The key is applying enough to taste but not so much that it makes the bread soggy. Add half the mozzarella in an even layer followed by all the pepperoni slices overlapping slightly. Top with remaining sauce and finish with the rest of the mozzarella ensuring even coverage to the edges.

Complete Assembly

Carefully place the top half of the rolls over the layered fillings pressing down gently to compact. Take care not to press too firmly which could force ingredients out the sides.

Create Butter Topping

In a small bowl thoroughly combine the melted butter garlic powder Italian seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will create a flavorful golden crust during baking. For extra flavor you can add a pinch of salt and pepper to the butter mixture.

Bake to Perfection

Using a pastry brush generously coat the top of the rolls with the butter mixture getting into all crevices. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes which allows the cheese to melt completely without burning the tops. Remove the foil and continue baking for 5 to 10 minutes until the tops are beautifully golden brown and crispy.

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The garlic Parmesan butter topping transformed these sliders from good to magnificent. I discovered this addition by accident when I was trying to recreate my grandmother's garlic knots and realized the same topping worked wonders on these sliders too. Now my family insists I make a double batch of the butter mixture for dipping.

Make-Ahead Options

These sliders shine as a make-ahead option for busy hosts. Assemble everything up to 24 hours before your event stopping before the butter topping step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve apply the butter mixture and bake adding about 5 extra minutes to the covered baking time to account for the chilled ingredients. This approach actually allows the flavors to meld together even better.

Creative Variations

The beauty of these sliders lies in their versatility. Try a vegetarian version with sautéed mushrooms bell peppers and onions. For meat lovers substitute bacon crumbles Italian sausage or ground beef for the pepperoni. Consider swapping the pizza sauce for pesto or alfredo sauce paired with appropriate toppings. My BBQ chicken version with barbecue sauce diced chicken red onion and gouda cheese became an instant hit at my daughter's graduation party.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sliders directly from the baking dish for casual gatherings or transfer to a serving platter for more formal occasions. A side of extra warm pizza sauce for dipping elevates the experience. Pair with a simple green salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For game day spreads arrange alongside other finger foods like buffalo wings veggie platters and potato skins for a complete spread that lets guests graze throughout the event.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual sliders in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or until cheese melts. For best results reheat multiple sliders in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes which restores some of the outer crispness. Avoid freezing the assembled sliders as the texture of the rolls deteriorates significantly upon thawing.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble these sliders up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare everything as directed but don't add the butter topping until just before baking. Cover with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the butter mixture and bake according to instructions, adding 5-7 extra minutes since they'll be cold from the refrigerator.

→ What other toppings can I add to these sliders?

These sliders are extremely versatile! Try adding cooked Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or even pineapple and ham for a Hawaiian twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or a pizza blend.

→ Can I use a different type of roll?

While Hawaiian sweet rolls provide the perfect sweet contrast to the savory fillings, you can substitute with other slider buns or dinner rolls. Just ensure they're connected so you can cut and assemble them as a single unit.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual sliders for 20-30 seconds, though they won't be as crispy.

→ Are these sliders freezer-friendly?

Yes! You can freeze these sliders either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble everything except the butter topping, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add butter topping, and bake as directed. For baked sliders, cool completely, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

These sliders pair perfectly with a variety of sides like a simple green salad, vegetable crudités, potato chips, or a cup of tomato soup. For a game day spread, serve alongside buffalo wings, a veggie tray with ranch dip, and loaded potato skins.