Table of Contents
Are you ready to elevate your next gathering or weeknight dinner with a dish that’s bursting with bold Italian flavors? Look no further than Italian sliders—the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack or meal! Imagine layers of savory deli meats, melted cheeses, and zesty toppings all tucked into soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls. These sliders are not only incredibly delicious but also simple to make, making them perfect for parties, game-day spreads, or even a quick family dinner.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional chopped Italian sliders or love experimenting with flavors like spicy or vegetarian options, this recipe has something for everyone. Stick around as we dive into everything you need to know about how to make Italian sliders—from ingredients and tips to serving ideas and creative variations that will leave your guests asking for seconds (or thirds!).
Let’s get started and turn your kitchen into an Italian deli!
How to Make Italian Sliders
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious chopped Italian sliders:
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: Sweet and soft, perfect for holding all the flavorful ingredients.
- 6 slices of salami: Adds a rich, savory kick.
- 6 slices of pepperoni: For a classic Italian touch.
- 6 slices of ham: Provides a mild and tender base.
- 6 slices of provolone cheese: Creamy and melts beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For an extra cheesy layer.
- 1/4 cup banana peppers: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy bite.
- 1/4 cup black olives (sliced): Optional, for a briny flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce: For a fresh crunch.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: For added creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: To enhance the flavor with a slight tang.
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing: Infuses the sliders with a zesty Italian vibe.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: For brushing on top of the rolls.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the buttery topping.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: For extra Italian flavor.
Instructions to Make Italian Sliders
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Prepare the rolls
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottom and top halves intact. Place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish.
Layer the ingredients
- Spread mayonnaise and Dijon mustard evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
- Layer salami, pepperoni, ham, provolone cheese, and shredded mozzarella.
- Add banana peppers, black olives, and shredded lettuce for extra flavor.
Top it off
Place the top half of the rolls over the layered ingredients.
Create the buttery topping
- Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian herbs in a small bowl.
- Brush this mixture generously over the top of the rolls.
Bake the sliders:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Slice and serve
Let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes before slicing them into individual pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips to make perfect Italian sliders
- Use fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality deli meats and fresh vegetables to elevate the flavors.
- Adjust spice levels: Add more banana peppers or a sprinkle of red chili flakes for spicier sliders.
- Prevent soggy rolls: Pat the banana peppers and olives dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Make ahead: Assemble the sliders ahead of time, then bake just before serving for convenience.
What to Serve With Italian Sliders
With these variations, you can make this Italian sliders recipe your own, adapting it to suit any occasion or taste preference!
Italian sliders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, drinks, and desserts to create a well-rounded meal or party spread. Here are some ideas:
Side Dishes
- Caesar Salad: A classic pairing with Italian flavors. The crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons complement the richness of the sliders. Check out our Trader Joe’s Caesar Salad Recipe for a quick and delicious salad option.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy fries seasoned with garlic and Parmesan are perfect for dipping into marinara sauce alongside the sliders.
- Caprese Salad Skewers: Bite-sized skewers of fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a refreshing balance.
Snacks and Appetizers
- Fried Pickles with Dipping Sauce: The tangy and crispy fried pickles are an excellent starter. Pair them with our Fried Pickle Dipping Sauce Recipe for extra zing.
- Antipasto Platter: Include olives, marinated artichokes, roasted peppers, and prosciutto to expand the Italian theme.
Desserts
- Tiramisu: This classic Italian dessert with layers of mascarpone cream and espresso-soaked ladyfingers is always a hit.
- Maple Glazed Bacon: For a sweet-and-savory twist, serve Maple Glazed Bacon as a snackable dessert.
- Mini Cannoli: Crunchy pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cream are an easy handheld dessert option.
Drinks
- Blackberry Bramble Cocktail: A fruity, refreshing cocktail with a hint of gin. Try our Blackberry Bramble Cocktail Recipe for a vibrant pairing.
- Skinny Margarita: If you’re looking for a lighter drink, our Skinny Margarita Recipe is a perfect choice.
- Italian Soda: Non-alcoholic options like a fizzy Italian soda with syrups in flavors like vanilla or orange complement the sliders nicely.
Variations of Italian sliders
One of the best things about Italian sliders is their versatility. Here are some creative twists to customize the recipe:
Chopped Italian Hoagie Sliders
- Instead of layering whole slices of meats and cheese, chop the deli ingredients finely and mix them with Italian dressing for a hoagie-inspired filling.
Spicy Italian Grinder Sliders
- Add a layer of spicy giardiniera (Italian pickled vegetables) or a spread of hot pepper relish for a bold, zesty kick.
Vegetarian Italian Sliders
- Swap the meats for roasted vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and artichokes. Add extra mozzarella for a cheesy, satisfying bite.
Italian Sliders with Pesto
- Spread basil pesto on the rolls instead of mayonnaise and mustard for a fragrant, herbaceous flavor.
Caprese-Inspired Sliders
- Replace deli meats with slices of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before baking.
Breakfast Italian Sliders
- Add scrambled eggs and swap the deli meats for cooked Italian sausage or pancetta. A sprinkle of Parmesan makes these sliders perfect for brunch.
Gluten-Free Italian Sliders
- Use gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps as a base to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Hawaiian Roll Alternatives
- Experiment with pretzel rolls, brioche buns, or even ciabatta bread for a different texture and flavor profile.
With these variations, you can make this Italian sliders recipe your own, adapting it to suit any occasion or taste preference!
FAQs While Making Italian Sliders
- Can I use a different type of bread? Yes! While Hawaiian rolls are the classic choice, you can use ciabatta or brioche for a slightly different flavor.
- How do I store leftovers? Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Can I freeze Italian sliders? Yes, assemble the sliders without the butter topping, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the topping and bake when ready.
- How can I prevent the sliders from sticking to the dish? Line the baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
- Can I make Italian sliders in an air fryer?
Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F, place the sliders inside (ensure they fit without overcrowding), and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese melts and the tops are golden. - What can I use instead of butter for the topping?
You can use olive oil or a combination of olive oil and garlic for a lighter option. It will still give the sliders a delicious, crispy top. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add roasted red peppers, sliced tomatoes, or sautéed onions to enhance the flavors. - Are these sliders suitable for kids?
Yes, but you may want to skip or reduce the banana peppers if your kids prefer milder flavors. You can also customize with kid-friendly fillings like turkey and cheddar.
Substitutes
- Meat substitutes: Swap salami, pepperoni, and ham with turkey, roast beef, or chicken breast.
- Cheese alternatives: Try Swiss, cheddar, or fontina instead of provolone and mozzarella.
- Dressing substitutes: Use balsamic glaze or Caesar dressing if Italian dressing isn’t available.
- Rolls replacement: Replace Hawaiian rolls with mini baguettes or pretzel buns.
Nutrition of Italian Sliders
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per slider (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 9g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 490mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and serving sizes.
With this How to Make Italian Sliders Recipe, you’ll have a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any occasion. Incorporate these Italian sliders Hawaiian rolls into your next gathering or casual meal, and let the rave reviews roll in!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious chopped Italian sliders: 
- 12 Hawaiian rolls: Sweet and soft, perfect for holding all the flavorful ingredients.
- 6 slices of salami: Adds a rich, savory kick.
- 6 slices of pepperoni: For a classic Italian touch.
- 6 slices of ham: Provides a mild and tender base.
- 6 slices of provolone cheese: Creamy and melts beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For an extra cheesy layer.
- 1/4 cup banana peppers: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy bite.
- 1/4 cup black olives (sliced): Optional, for a briny flavor.
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce: For a fresh crunch.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: For added creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: To enhance the flavor with a slight tang.
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing: Infuses the sliders with a zesty Italian vibe.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: For brushing on top of the rolls.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the buttery topping.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: For extra Italian flavor.
Instructions
Instructions to Make Italian Sliders
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
Prepare the rolls
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the bottom and top halves intact. Place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish.
Layer the ingredients
- Spread mayonnaise and Dijon mustard evenly over the bottom half of the rolls.
- Layer salami, pepperoni, ham, provolone cheese, and shredded mozzarella.
- Add banana peppers, black olives, and shredded lettuce for extra flavor.
Top it off
Place the top half of the rolls over the layered ingredients.
Create the buttery topping
- Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian herbs in a small bowl.
- Brush this mixture generously over the top of the rolls.
Bake the sliders
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
Slice and serve
Let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes before slicing them into individual pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Tips to make perfect Italian sliders
- Use fresh ingredients: Opt for high-quality deli meats and fresh vegetables to elevate the flavors.
- Adjust spice levels: Add more banana peppers or a sprinkle of red chili flakes for spicier sliders.
- Prevent soggy rolls: Pat the banana peppers and olives dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Make ahead: Assemble the sliders ahead of time, then bake just before serving for convenience.
