Pizza Sliders

The moment you pull these Pizza Sliders from the oven, the aroma of garlic butter and melted cheese fills your kitchen, promising all the flavors of your favorite pizzeria in perfect hand-held form. Golden-brown Hawaiian rolls encase layers of gooey mozzarella, savory meats, and rich pizza sauce, creating an irresistible twist on classic pizza that's perfect for feeding a crowd.

Last weekend, I served these at a game day gathering, and they disappeared faster than any other dish. The secret? That garlic butter topping that turns the rolls into something extraordinary.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: Keep them connected when slicing. The sweetness balances the savory fillings perfectly.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Grate your own from a block for superior melting. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting.
• Italian Sausage: Choose mild or hot depending on your preference. Remove it from the casing if buying links.
• Pizza Sauce: A thicker sauce works best to prevent soggy bottoms. Homemade or high-quality store-bought both work well.

Pin it

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Roll Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Using a long serrated knife, carefully slice the entire block of rolls horizontally, keeping them connected. Place the bottom half in a parchment-lined 9x13 baking dish.

Sausage Cooking Method:

Brown Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small, even crumbles. Drain thoroughly on paper towels to prevent excess grease.

Layer Building:

Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the bottom rolls. Add half the mozzarella, followed by pepperoni and cooked sausage. Top with remaining cheese. Spread remaining sauce on the cut side of the top rolls before placing them on top.

Garlic Butter Topping:

Combine melted butter with grated parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Brush generously over the top of the rolls.

My Italian grandmother always said, "The secret to good pizza anything is patience with the cheese melting."

Temperature Management

Start covered to allow the cheese to melt completely, then uncover for the final 5 minutes to achieve that perfect golden top. If browning too quickly, tent loosely with foil.

Make-Ahead Options

Assemble everything except the garlic butter topping up to 4 hours ahead. Keep refrigerated, then brush with garlic butter just before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the covered baking time if starting cold.

Serving Strategy

Let rest for 2-3 minutes after baking before cutting into individual sliders. This helps the cheese set slightly and prevents it from oozing out completely.

Storage Solutions

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven wrapped in foil until warm and cheese is melty again.

Final Thoughts: These Pizza Sliders represent the perfect marriage of convenience and indulgence. Through many iterations in my kitchen, I've found that success lies in the careful layering of ingredients and attention to baking times. The way the sweet Hawaiian rolls transform into a garlic-butter crusted vessel for classic pizza flavors creates something that's more than just a sandwich - it's a crowd-pleasing masterpiece that brings people together. Whether served at a party, game day, or casual family dinner, these sliders prove that sometimes the best recipes are creative twists on foods we already love.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

You can assemble them ahead and add the butter topping just before baking for best results.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Try mushrooms, olives, peppers, or any of your favorite pizza toppings.

→ Can I use different rolls?

Yes, any slider-sized rolls work, though Hawaiian rolls provide the best sweet-savory balance.

→ How do I prevent the bottoms from getting soggy?

Don't use too much sauce, and make sure your Italian sausage is well-drained.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

While possible, they're best served fresh and hot from the oven.