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Pizza Sliders

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Introduction

Pizza Sliders are the ultimate mash-up of two comfort-food favorites: pizza and sliders. Soft rolls are layered with melty cheese, savory pizza sauce, and classic toppings, then baked until golden and bubbly. They’re perfect for parties, game day, quick dinners, or anytime you want pizza flavor without the hassle of dough.

Origin

Pizza sliders are a modern American creation inspired by the popularity of pull-apart sliders and the universal love of pizza. As sheet-pan meals and party foods gained traction, cooks began transforming classic pizzas into slider form for easy serving and sharing.

Cultural Significance

These sliders represent casual, communal eating at its best. Often served at gatherings, potlucks, and sports events, pizza sliders embody fun, convenience, and comfort. They’re especially popular because they’re endlessly customizable and kid-friendly.

Ingredients & Quantity

For the Sliders

  • 12 slider rolls (Hawaiian or dinner rolls)
  • 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoni
  • ½ cup cooked Italian sausage (optional)
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • ¼ cup diced bell peppers (optional)

For the Garlic Butter Topping

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Additions

  • Mushrooms
  • Bacon bits
  • Jalapeños
  • Pineapple
  • Extra cheese blend (mozzarella + provolone)

Tips for Success

  1. Use soft slider rolls for easy pull-apart texture.
  2. Don’t oversauce—too much can make sliders soggy.
  3. Layer cheese on both sides to trap fillings.
  4. Cover first, then uncover to melt cheese evenly.
  5. Rest a few minutes before cutting for clean sliders.

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Assemble Sliders:
    Slice rolls in half horizontally.
    Place bottom halves in dish.
    Spread pizza sauce evenly.
    Add half the mozzarella, then toppings, then remaining cheese.
    Place top halves on sliders.
  3. Add Topping:
    Mix melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan.
    Brush generously over slider tops.
  4. Bake:
    Cover loosely with foil and bake 15 minutes.
    Uncover and bake another 8–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  5. Serve:
    Cool slightly, slice, and enjoy.

Description

Pizza sliders are soft, cheesy, and packed with classic pizza flavor. The buttery, seasoned tops add richness, while the melty cheese and savory toppings create the perfect bite-sized pizza experience.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per slider)

  • Calories: 190–220 kcal
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Protein: 7 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg

(Values vary by toppings.)

Conclusion

Pizza Sliders are a simple, satisfying way to serve pizza flavor to a crowd. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, they’re a go-to recipe for busy nights and festive gatherings alike.

Recommendation

Serve with:

  • Marinara or ranch for dipping
  • Caesar or garden salad
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Garlic knots or breadsticks

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

To keep things balanced:

  • Use whole-grain rolls
  • Add veggie-heavy toppings
  • Reduce butter slightly
  • Serve alongside a fresh salad

Pizza sliders prove that indulgent food can still be shared, flexible, and fun 🍕💛

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