Pizza Sliders
If you’re looking for a fun and delicious twist on pizza, these pizza sliders are the perfect solution! Ideal for game day, parties, or even a casual dinner, these sliders are packed with flavor and easy to make. Imagine soft rolls filled with your favorite pizza toppings, melted cheese, and a savory sauce. Your guests will love these little bites of joy, and they’re sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
– 12 slider rolls
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– Fresh basil leaves
– Olive oil
– Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Optional: sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 sliders. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slider) contains approximately 200 calories, 10g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 8g of protein. This is based on one slider with standard toppings.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally.
- Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the rolls.
- Layer shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add a generous layer of pepperoni slices.
- Add fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on top.
- Place the top halves of the rolls back on.
- Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the mozzarella cheese with provolone or cheddar for a different flavor. Additionally, feel free to use turkey pepperoni or eliminate meat entirely for a vegetarian option.
Serving and Pairings
These pizza sliders are perfect on their own, but pair them with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or a side of marinara for dipping. They also go great with a cold beverage!
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover pizza sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overfill the sliders; keep the toppings moderate.
- Ensure the rolls are fresh to avoid a dry texture.
- Avoid using too much sauce, which can make the sliders soggy.
- Don’t skip the olive oil on top for a golden finish.
- Allow sliders to cool slightly before serving to avoid burns.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Try adding vegetables like spinach or roasted red peppers.
- Use a pizza stone for even cooking if available.
- Make a double batch for larger gatherings.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat in the sliders?
Yes, you can use any type of deli meat or sausage in place of pepperoni. Chicken or turkey also work well for a lighter option.
Are these sliders kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love the small size and familiar flavors of pizza, making these sliders a hit for family meals.
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sliders and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
You can use store-bought marinara, homemade sauce, or even pizza sauce depending on your preference.
Can I freeze the sliders?
Yes, these sliders freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Conclusion
Pizza sliders are a delightful and versatile dish that can be customized to suit any taste. Perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal, they offer all the flavors of pizza in a fun and easy-to-eat format. Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and sauces to create your perfect slider!
Pizza Sliders
Ingredients
- 12 slider rolls
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- Fresh basil leaves
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: sliced bell peppers mushrooms, or olives
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider rolls in half horizontally.
- Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish.
- Spread marinara sauce evenly over the rolls.
- Layer shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Add a generous layer of pepperoni slices.
- Add fresh basil leaves for added flavor.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on top.
- Place the top halves of the rolls back on.
- Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
