Pizza sliders

Who doesn’t love a great pizza? Picture this: soft, pillowy sliders stuffed with all your favorite pizza toppings, melty cheese, and a touch of Italian seasoning. This easy and delicious pizza sliders recipe is the perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. Whether it’s game night, a cozy family dinner, or just a fun weekend treat, these sliders will have everyone coming back for seconds.

The beauty of pizza sliders lies in their simplicity and versatility. They combine the best of both worlds: the classic flavors of pizza and the fun, handheld convenience of sliders. You can customize them to suit your taste, making them a recipe that’s as unique as you are. If you’re looking for a comforting dish that’s easy to whip up and sure to satisfy, these pizza sliders are a must-try.

Ingredients

• Slider rolls – 12 (you can also use slider buns or mini bagels)
• Pepperoni – 1 cup (or your favorite deli meats, such as ham or salami)
• Shredded mozzarella cheese – 2 cups (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
• Pizza sauce – 1 cup (store-bought or homemade)
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon (oregano or basil works well too)
• Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon (optional, for an extra flavor boost)
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (for brushing on top)

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get the perfect golden-brown crust on your sliders.

Step 2:

In a large baking dish, arrange the slider rolls by slicing them in half and laying the bottom halves in the dish. It’s okay if they touch; this keeps them nice and soft.

Step 3:

Spread a generous amount of pizza sauce over the bottom half of the rolls. Make sure every inch is covered so your sliders are bursting with flavor.

Step 4:

Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then layer the pepperoni (or your preferred toppings) evenly. You can also throw in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms if you like.

Step 5:

Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the top for that signature pizza flavor.

Step 6:

Place the top halves of the slider rolls back on, then brush the tops with olive oil. This will give them that beautiful shine when they bake.

Step 7:

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is all melted and bubbly.

Step 8:

Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before slicing them into individual sliders. Serve warm with some extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Nutritional Information

Each slider contains approximately 210 calories, with 10 grams of protein and 12 grams of fat depending on your specific ingredients. These delightful bites are not only satisfying but also easy on the taste buds and the waistline, if you don’t go back for seconds.

Healthier Alternatives

Looking to lighten things up? Swap out the slider rolls for whole-grain or cauliflower-based options. You can even go for low-fat cheese and turkey pepperoni for a healthier twist. Adding fresh veggies or pre-cooked chicken can boost the nutrient content without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pizza sliders with a side of fresh salad or vegetable sticks and dip. They also pair wonderfully with a simple tomato soup, which brings that classic pizza and soup combo everyone loves. For a themed night, try preparing a few different kinds, like my other crowd favorite, the Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole.

Common Mistakes

A common mistake with pizza sliders is overcrowding the toppings. While it’s tempting to load them up, too many ingredients can make them soggy. Stick to a balance for the best texture. Additionally, remember to let them cool slightly before slicing; this will help keep everything perfectly intact.

Chef’s Notes

• For a spicy kick, try adding sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the pizza sauce.
• These sliders freeze beautifully. Make them ahead and pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready, just heat them in the oven for a quick meal.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the pizza toppings for your favorite flavors, like BBQ chicken or a cheeseburger twist with pickles and mustard.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; You can assemble them and store them in the fridge before baking.
• Q2: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
  A2: Pop them back in a warm oven (about 350°F) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Q3: Can I change the protein in the sliders?
  A3: Yes, feel free to use chicken, ham, or whatever suits your taste. The options are endless.

These pizza sliders are perfect for any occasion or just a fun night in. They’re easy to make, deliciously cheesy, and sure to become a favorite at your table. Don’t hesitate to explore other tasty recipes on my blog, like the Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole, for more delicious inspiration. Happy cooking!

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