Pizza Sliders
If you’re craving a bite-sized twist on classic pizza, look no further than these pizza sliders! Perfect for gatherings, these sliders are filled with gooey cheese, savory pepperoni, and zesty marinara sauce, all nestled between soft, pillowy buns. Easy to make and even easier to devour, they’re sure to be a hit at your next event. Let’s dive into this simple and satisfying recipe!
Ingredients
– 12 slider buns
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
– Olive oil (for brushing)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Garlic powder (to taste)
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 sliders. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of around 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slider) contains approximately 220 calories, 10g of fat, 25g of carbohydrates, and 8g of protein. This is based on standard ingredients used in the recipe.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
3. Brush the bun halves with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
4. Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom buns.
5. Layer half of the mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
6. Add a layer of pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
7. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if desired.
8. Add the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the pepperoni.
9. Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese.
10. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
11. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily customize these pizza sliders by using different meats like cooked sausage or ham, or even go vegetarian with sautéed vegetables. For a gluten-free option, substitute the slider buns with gluten-free bread.
Serving and Pairings
These pizza sliders are great on their own but pair wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or some crunchy veggies with dip. They also go well with a selection of dipping sauces like ranch or extra marinara.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pizza sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. These sliders can also be frozen before baking for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using stale buns can ruin the texture; always use fresh ones.
- Overbaking can make the sliders dry; watch them closely.
- Skipping the oil can lead to a dry top; brush generously.
- Not letting the sliders cool slightly can make them difficult to slice.
- Using too much sauce can make the sliders soggy; use a moderate amount.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheese blends for added flavor.
- Try adding fresh herbs for extra freshness.
- Use mini pepperoni for a fun presentation.
- Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for guests to enjoy.
FAQs
Can I make pizza sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sliders and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re cold.
What kind of sauce is best for pizza sliders?
Marinara sauce is the classic choice, but you can also use pesto or even barbecue sauce for a unique twist.
Can I freeze pizza sliders?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
What are some good toppings for pizza sliders?
Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra flavor. You can also try different meats like bacon or chicken.
How do I prevent the sliders from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, use a moderate amount of sauce and don’t overload the sliders. Also, ensure the buns are fresh and not overly soft.
Conclusion
Pizza sliders are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. With endless customization options and easy preparation, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s game day or a casual family dinner, these sliders are sure to please. Try them out and watch them disappear quickly!
Pizza Sliders
Ingredients
- 12 slider buns
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Olive oil for brushing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder to taste
- Red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Brush the bun halves with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce over the bottom buns.
- Layer half of the mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
- Add a layer of pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Add the remaining mozzarella cheese on top of the pepperoni.
- Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese.
- Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden and bubbly.
