These Muffuletta Sliders are a fun twist on the classic New Orleans sandwich! With layers of flavorful meats, cheese, and a zesty olive salad, they’re a real crowd-pleaser.
They’re perfect for parties, game days, or just a tasty snack. I like to serve them warm, and trust me, you’ll want to keep an eye on them—they disappear fast! 🥪✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls work best, but you can use any small, soft buns. Hawaiian rolls add a sweet touch, while whole wheat or gluten-free buns are great alternatives for different dietary needs.
Meats: The traditional Muffuletta features salami, ham, and mortadella. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey is a fine substitute. You can also mix meats based on your preference—just ensure they are sliced thin for easy layering.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone is mild and melts beautifully. If you’re not a fan, mozzarella or pepper jack can work well. For a sharper taste, try aged cheddar or gouda.
Olive Salad: This adds a punch of flavor. Store-bought olive salad is convenient, but make your own for freshness. You can swap green olives for black or even use other pickled vegetables if olives aren’t your favorite.
How Do I Assemble the Sliders Perfectly?
Assembling the sliders is straightforward, but some steps will help ensure even layering and flavor distribution. Start by carefully slicing the buns in half while keeping them attached. This lets you stack without fuss.
- Layer your meats in an order that suits your taste—I’d recommend starting with the salami for its bold flavor, followed by ham and mortadella.
- Cheese goes on top of the meats to keep them moist, while the olive salad adds a flavorful crunch.
- After placing the lids on, brush with the garlic butter mixture for added richness before baking.
Keep an eye on the baking time to achieve that perfect golden, crispy top! Trust me; it’s worth the wait for that delicious melted cheese.
Muffuletta Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 6 oz sliced salami
- 6 oz sliced ham
- 6 oz sliced mortadella or turkey (optional)
- 6 oz sliced provolone cheese
- 3/4 cup olive salad (see note below)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for topping
For the Olive Salad (if not store-bought):
- 1 cup chopped green olives (pimento-stuffed preferred)
- 1/2 cup chopped black olives
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers
- 2 tbsp capers, drained and chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking time, so you’ll be enjoying these delicious sliders in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Olive Salad:
If you’re making your own olive salad, start by mixing the chopped green olives, black olives, roasted red peppers, and capers in a medium bowl. Pour in the olive oil and red wine vinegar, then stir in the minced garlic and parsley. Mix well and add some salt and pepper to taste. Set this lovely salad aside so the flavors can meld.
2. Preheat Oven:
While your olive salad sits, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when the sliders go in!
3. Prepare Slider Pan:
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking. This will help your sliders come out nice and easily.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally, keeping them in one piece if you can. Place the bottom halves in the pan. Start layering your meats: first, the salami, then the ham, and finally, if you’re using it, the mortadella or turkey. On top of the meats, layer the provolone cheese. Then, spread the olive salad mixture evenly over the cheese. Finally, place the top halves of the buns back on.
5. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried oregano. This will add delicious flavor to the tops of your sliders!
6. Brush and Top:
Use a brush or spoon to generously coat the tops of the slider buns with the butter mixture. Then, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor and a nice finish!
7. Bake:
Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops of the sliders are golden brown and crispy.
8. Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let the sliders cool for just a few minutes. Then, slice them apart along the bun seams and serve warm. Enjoy these delightful Muffuletta Sliders fresh out of the oven!
These flavorful sliders are sure to become a favorite, capturing the spirit of the classic New Orleans Muffuletta in a fun, portable form. Enjoy! 🎉🥪
Can I Use Different Types of Buns for the Sliders?
Absolutely! While soft dinner rolls are preferred, you can use Hawaiian rolls for a sweeter taste or whole wheat and gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary needs. Just ensure they are soft enough to hold everything together!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Muffuletta Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or microwave until warmed through for best results.
Can I Make the Olive Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the olive salad a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld. This way, you can quickly assemble your sliders when you’re ready to bake!
What If I Don’t Like Olive Salad?
No problem! If you’re not a fan of olive salad, you can substitute it with diced pickles or a mix of your favorite vegetables, like roasted red peppers and chopped artichokes, for a different flavor combination.
