These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are mini sandwiches packed with tasty layers of meats, cheese, and a kick of flavors. Perfect for a quick snack or party food!
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese and tangy peppers all in one bite? I usually serve them with some crunchy pickles on the side—yum!
Making these sliders is super easy! Just layer your ingredients on a bun, bake until melty, and watch them disappear faster than you can say “More, please!”
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I recommend using Hawaiian rolls for their soft, sweet taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat slider buns work nicely, too!
Cheese: Provolone adds a great flavor, but mozzarella or even pepper jack can be nice substitutes for a little extra spice.
Meats: Ham, salami, and pepperoni are classic choices. If you want a lighter version, turkey or chicken breast can work well. Keep it all deli-style!
Peppers: If you’re not a fan of banana peppers, try sweet bell peppers or even roasted red peppers for a different twist. Pickled jalapeños add heat; adjust based on your taste!
Condiments: Mayonnaise and mustard are perfect, but aioli or pesto can jazz things up even more. Feel free to experiment!
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Melts Perfectly?
For perfectly melted cheese, you want to bake the sliders at the right temperature. Starting at 350°F (175°C) helps the heat spread evenly. Here are some tips:
- Keep the sliders covered with foil for the first 10 minutes in the oven. This retains moisture.
- Uncover for the last 5 minutes to let the tops brown and the cheese get nice and gooey.
Always check towards the end; you want the cheese melted but not overcooked! The right timing is key.
How to Make Hot Italian Sub Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 6 slices provolone cheese, halved
- 6 slices pepperoni
- 6 slices salami
- 6 slices ham
- 12 slices banana peppers or pickled jalapeños
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or chopped romaine
- 1 medium tomato, thinly sliced
For the Spreads and Toppings:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to bake, for a total of about 25 minutes. Super quick and easy, making it a fantastic option for busy days or when you have unexpected guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to go when you’re done assembling your sliders.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the top and bottom halves together. This helps with stacking and assembly!
3. Mix the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the garlic powder. This will create a delicious topping for the sliders.
4. Layer the Meats and Cheese:
On a baking sheet, place the bottom halves of the buns and start layering them with the ham, salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese. Make sure to cover the entire area for maximum flavor!
5. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, layer on the thinly sliced tomato, shredded lettuce, and banana peppers or jalapeños. This adds great crunch and a spicy kick!
6. Spread the Condiments:
Take the top halves of the buns and spread mayonnaise and mustard evenly on the inside. It’ll mix well with the warm ingredients later!
7. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the top halves over the layered ingredients on the bottom halves, creating cute little sandwiches!
8. Brush with Garlic Butter:
Generously brush the tops of the assembled sliders with your garlic butter mixture. This will give a lovely golden-brown finish.
9. Add Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and a bit of freshly ground black pepper over the tops for added flavor.
10. Bake:
Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the cheese is melted and the buns are perfectly golden brown.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a minute. Cut sliders apart, and serve them warm! Pair with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for that extra touch.
Enjoy your Hot Italian Sub Sliders packed with flavor and perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Different Meats in the Sliders?
Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite deli meats. Turkey, roast beef, or even prosciutto can work beautifully in this recipe—just keep the balance of flavors in mind!
What If I Don’t Have Slider Buns?
No worries! You can use regular sandwich rolls, ciabatta, or even sliced bread cut into smaller pieces. Just adjust the baking time slightly as needed to ensure everything heats through properly.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping them in the oven to ensure even baking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture, or quickly in the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
