If you’ve been searching for the perfect crowd-pleaser that blends the gooey goodness of pizza with the soft sweetness of Hawaiian rolls, look no further! This Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe is pure magic baked into bite-sized sandwiches. Each slider bursts with melted mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and rich marinara, all hugged by buttery, garlicky rolls that bring everything together in a harmony of flavors and textures. Whether it’s a game day snack, a party appetizer, or a cozy dinner, these sliders will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are surprisingly simple yet essential — they each add their own sparkle to the recipe’s vibrant taste and inviting texture. From the soft Hawaiian rolls for sweetness to the melted mozzarella for that irresistible stretch, every item plays a starring role.
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: Their unique sweetness perfectly balances the savory fillings and keeps sliders soft and fluffy.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: Adds a tangy, tomato-rich base that brings all the toppings together.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Creates that melty, stringy cheese experience that makes pizza sliders irresistible.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni: For a classic, spicy-salty flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Infuses the rolls’ tops with a rich glaze that enhances every bite.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the butter mixture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings herbal notes that boost the pizza-like taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the rolls and accents all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle kick to keep things interesting.
How to Make Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Get your oven nice and warm at 350°F (175°C). This ensures your sliders bake evenly, allowing the cheese to melt perfectly without drying out the soft rolls.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Keep all 12 Hawaiian rolls connected to maintain the slider “block” shape. Slice them horizontally to create a top and bottom half, then place the bottom half carefully in a greased baking dish. This holds everything snugly together while baking.
Step 3: Add the Marinara Sauce
Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. This generous coating creates the classic pizza moisture and flavor that’s essential to every bite.
Step 4: Layer with Cheese
Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauced rolls. This cheesy base will melt into the bread and act as a gooey canvas for the pepperoni to follow.
Step 5: Add the Pepperoni
Place your sliced pepperoni evenly on top of the first cheese layer. These spicy, thin rounds add the signature pizza taste and a bit of savory zing.
Step 6: Top with More Cheese and Sauce
Sprinkle the remaining cup of mozzarella over the pepperoni, then drizzle the rest of the marinara sauce on top. This layered approach ensures every bite feels like a mini pizza explosion.
Step 7: Add the Top Half of the Rolls
Carefully place the tops of the rolls back onto your layered masterpiece. This completes the slider sandwich, ready to soak up all the buttery goodness.
Step 8: Prepare and Apply the Butter Mixture
Mix the melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Brush this flavorful blend generously over the top of the rolls to give your sliders a golden, savory crust bursting with aroma.
Step 9: Bake Your Sliders
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes to warm through and melt the cheese. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the tops to become perfectly golden and slightly crisp.
Step 10: Cool, Slice, and Serve
Once baked, let the sliders cool for about 5 minutes—this makes them easier to slice and enjoy without losing all that molten cheese. Cut into individual sliders and get ready to wow your friends and family!
How to Serve Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkling of fresh chopped basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top to elevate the flavor and add a pop of color. A little sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also add that extra cheesy punch, making your sliders look as amazing as they taste.
Side Dishes
These sliders pair beautifully with simple sides like crisp garden salads, sweet potato fries, or even a refreshing cucumber salad. The freshness of a salad balances the richness of the sliders perfectly, making your meal both satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe on a large wooden board or platter, surrounded by small bowls of extra marinara for dipping. You can also wrap individual sliders in parchment paper tied with string for an adorable, gift-like presentation at parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover sliders tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to keep these sliders longer, wrap them individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, place the sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the rolls from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, you can mix in provolone, cheddar, or even a bit of parmesan for varied flavor. Just keep in mind that mozzarella offers the best melt and stretch.
Is it necessary to keep the Hawaiian rolls connected when baking?
Keeping them connected helps the sliders hold together nicely and makes slicing easier. Plus, it ensures even baking and that soft, ‘pull-apart’ texture everyone loves.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the pepperoni and load up on extra cheese, veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for a delicious vegetarian twist.
What if I don’t have Hawaiian rolls on hand?
You can use any soft sweet rolls or slider buns, but Hawaiian rolls are recommended because their slight sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the savory toppings.
How spicy are these sliders?
They have a mild heat mostly coming from the pepperoni and black pepper, which balances nicely with the buttery, sweet rolls. You can always add red pepper flakes if you want more kick.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe, you’ll be hooked on its perfect blend of cheesy, savory, and sweet flavors wrapped in irresistibly soft rolls. It’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion and so incredibly easy to make. Give it a go, and watch your loved ones beg for seconds!
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Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesy Pizza Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or meal, combining soft, sweet rolls with layers of marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and pepperoni. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, Italian herbs, and a buttery topping, these sliders are baked until bubbly and golden, making them an irresistible treat for pizza lovers and party gatherings.
Ingredients
Sliders
- 12 Hawaiian rolls
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
Butter Topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the sliders.
- Prepare the Rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally while keeping them connected in their original shape. Place the bottom half in a greased baking dish evenly.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly over the bottom half of the rolls to create a flavorful base.
- Layer Cheese: Sprinkle one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce for a creamy texture.
- Add Pepperoni: Arrange the sliced pepperoni over the cheese to add savory, meaty flavor.
- Top with More Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the pepperoni for an extra cheesy layer.
- Drizzle Sauce: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top cheese layer to keep the sliders saucy and delicious.
- Add Top Rolls: Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls back onto the layered ingredients, enclosing the filling.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful topping.
- Brush Butter Mixture: Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls for enhanced flavor and browning during baking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the tops are golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Slice the sliders apart and serve warm for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For extra gooey cheese, you can add a variety of cheeses such as cheddar or provolone along with mozzarella.
- Feel free to substitute pepperoni with other favorite pizza toppings like cooked sausage, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Brush the top buns generously with the butter mixture for an aromatic and savory finish.
- Covering the sliders while baking helps retain moisture and ensures even melting of the cheese.
- These sliders are perfect for parties, game days, or as a quick weeknight dinner.
