Pepperoni Pizza Sliders: 15-Minute Heavenly Delight

The Ultimate Pepperoni Pizza Sliders Recipe

Look, I have a confession to make. I am usually a total disaster in the kitchen when people are coming over. I am always running behind and there is usually flour on my face. But these sliders are my absolute secret weapon for game days and quick family dinners. I started making them because I needed something fast that would not make me miss the start of the game. There is just something about that contrast between the buttery toasted tops and the gooey cheesy center that makes everyone go wild. You get that sweet hit from the rolls and then the salty kick from the pepperoni. It is seriously addictive and I promise you will be the hero of the party if you bring these out.

Ingredients for Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

You do not need anything fancy for these but I do have a few preferences. Make sure you get the low-moisture mozzarella because it melts way better without making the bread soggy. Here is what you need to grab from the store.

• 12-pack of sweet Hawaiian rolls or slider buns
• 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 40–50 slices of mini beef pepperoni
• 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

I am going to walk you through this so it is super easy. Just follow along and try not to eat all the pepperoni while you are building them.

Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First things first. Go ahead and preheat your oven to 350 degrees. You want it nice and hot when the sliders go in. While that is warming up take a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it really well so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Slice and Layer Your Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

Take the whole pack of rolls out and do not pull them apart yet. Use a big knife to slice the entire block in half horizontally. Lay the bottom half in your greased dish. Spread your sauce over the bread and then top it with half of your mozzarella. Lay down all those mini pepperonis in a nice layer and then dump the rest of the cheese on top. Finally put the top bun piece back on like a giant sandwich.

Apply the Garlic Butter Glaze

In a small bowl whisk together your melted butter and garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Grab a brush and paint that mixture all over the tops of the rolls. Do not be shy with it. You want every single inch of that bread covered in garlic butter goodness.

Baking to Perfection

Cover the dish with some foil and pop it in the oven for about 10 minutes. This helps the cheese get really melty without burning the bread. After that take the foil off and let them bake for another 5 to 10 minutes. You are looking for those tops to turn a beautiful golden brown color.

Timing and Avoiding Mistakes with Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

The best part about this recipe is that it only takes 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. If you are worried about the dreaded soggy bottom just remember one thing. Do not go overboard with the sauce. A thin layer is all you need. Also make sure you bake them on the middle rack so the heat hits them evenly from the top and bottom.

Expert Tips for the Best Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

If you want to take these to the next level I have a few tricks. I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter glaze if I want a little heat. When it comes time to serve use a serrated knife to cut them. It makes the cleanest cuts without squishing the bread. Most importantly let them sit for about 2 minutes after they come out of the oven. It makes them way easier to pull apart and keeps the cheese from sliding right out.

How to Store and Reheat Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

If you actually have leftovers you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you want to eat them again please do not use the microwave. It makes the bread rubbery and sad. Instead put them in the oven or an air fryer at 325 degrees for about 5 minutes. They will get nice and crispy again just like they were fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

I get asked these things all the time so here are the quick answers for you.

• Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes you can assemble them a few hours early but I would wait to add the sauce and butter until right before you bake them so they stay fresh.
• Can I use different types of meat? Absolutely. You can swap the pepperoni for ham or cooked sausage or even turkey.
• What is the best sauce to use? I think a nice thick pizza sauce works best because it has less water than some marinara brands.

Estimated Nutritional Information

This information is for a serving size of 2 sliders. Keep in mind these are a treat so just enjoy them.

• Calories: 310 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 14g
• Sodium: 680mg

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