Italian Sliders Recipe

Easy Italian Sliders Recipe That’ll Wow Your Dinner Guests

Miniature burger magic meets italian sliders in a compact culinary adventure that promises big flavor.

Small bites pack tremendous punch with these handheld delights.

Mediterranean herbs and zesty ingredients transform ordinary slider expectations into something extraordinary.

Crispy edges and juicy centers create perfect textural harmony for every mouthful.

Weekend gatherings or casual game nights become instantly more delicious with these crowd-pleasing mini sandwiches.

Compact yet powerful, these sliders deliver an irresistible combination of traditional and modern tastes.

Dive right in and experience how these little sandwiches can become your next conversation starter.

Italian Sliders and Their Irresistible Taste

  • Quick Crowd-Pleaser: Whip up these Italian sliders in under 20 minutes, perfect for feeding a hungry group with minimal effort.
  • Flavor-Packed Bite-Sized Delight: Combining savory salami, ham, and two types of cheese, these mini sandwiches deliver big Italian-inspired taste in a compact package.
  • Party-Ready Convenience: These sliders can be prepped ahead of time, making them ideal for game days, potlucks, family gatherings, or spontaneous weekend get-togethers.
  • Budget-Friendly Entertaining: Using affordable ingredients like Hawaiian rolls and deli meats, this recipe offers a delicious solution for feeding multiple people without breaking the bank.

Italian Sliders Cooking Elements

Bread Base:
  • Hawaiian Rolls, Slider Buns: Soft, sweet base that provides a perfect foundation for layering ingredients and adds a unique flavor profile.
Deli Meats:
  • Salami, Deli Ham: Classic Italian-style cold cuts that bring rich, savory protein and traditional deli flavor to the sliders.
Cheese Selection:
  • Provolone Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy, melty cheeses that add depth, stretch, and authentic Italian cheese taste; each cheese contributes a different texture and sharpness.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Aromatic spices that enhance the overall flavor profile with classic Italian herb and garlic notes.
Binding Agent:
  • Butter: Helps create a golden, crispy exterior when brushed on rolls and adds richness to the dish.

Steps to Build Italian Sliders

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Preheat your oven to a cozy 350°F.

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light grease to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Slice the Rolls

Carefully slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping them connected.

Gently place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Create Layers of Flavor

Build your slider masterpiece with these delicious ingredients:
  • Salami
  • Ham
  • Provolone cheese
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese

Lovingly arrange the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer.

Step 4: Craft the Magical Butter Blend

In a small bowl, whisk together:
  • Melted butter
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Parmesan cheese

Generously brush this flavor-packed mixture over the tops of the rolls.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and slide into the oven.

Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the foil.

Continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese melts into gooey deliciousness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove from the oven and let cool briefly.

Slice into individual sliders and serve while warm.

Watch as your guests dive into these irresistible treats!

How to Assemble Italian Sliders Without the Mess

  • Choose high-quality provolone and mozzarella for authentic Italian flavor and optimal melting texture.
  • Customize the garlic butter mixture by adding fresh chopped herbs like basil or oregano for extra depth.
  • Substitute salami with prosciutto or pepperoni for different flavor profiles while maintaining the Italian theme.
  • Use gluten-free Hawaiian rolls and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Prepare sliders in advance and refrigerate before baking, perfect for quick entertaining or meal prep.

Store Italian Sliders For A Quick Warm-Up

  • Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping them fresh and preventing moisture loss.
  • Warm sliders at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, wrapped in foil to maintain softness and prevent bread from drying out.
  • Heat individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds, checking to avoid overheating and maintain cheese's melty texture.
  • Wrap sliders tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

What to Put Beside Italian Sliders

  • Savor Italian Wines: Pair these sliders with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a bold Chianti to complement the rich, savory flavors of salami and melted cheeses.
  • Create Zesty Side Salad: Whip up a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the sliders' richness and add a bright, tangy contrast.
  • Match Chilled Beverages: Serve cold Italian craft beer or sparkling San Pellegrino to refresh the palate and enhance the sliders' robust Italian-inspired taste.
  • Boost with Dipping Sauce: Prepare a quick marinara or garlic aioli for an extra layer of flavor that highlights the sliders' Italian ingredients.

Italian Sliders with Tasty Topping Ideas

  • Vegetarian Slider Swap: Replace meats with grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and plant-based mozzarella for a hearty vegetarian option.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free dinner rolls or create the sliders on gluten-free bread to accommodate wheat sensitivities.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Swap Hawaiian rolls for large lettuce leaves, creating a protein-packed wrap with the same delicious Italian flavors.
  • Mediterranean Remix: Substitute salami and ham with grilled chicken, add fresh basil leaves, and use feta cheese for a Greek-inspired slider variation.

FAQs

  • What kind of rolls work best for these sliders?

Hawaiian rolls are perfect because they’re soft, slightly sweet, and hold together well when baked, creating a delicious base for these Italian-inspired mini sandwiches.

  • Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve, adding 5-10 minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the refrigerator.

  • Are these sliders good for parties?

Absolutely! These sliders are great for game days, potlucks, and gatherings because they’re easy to make, can be prepared in advance, and are always crowd-pleasers with their cheesy, meaty goodness.

  • Can I customize the meats and cheeses?

Definitely! While the recipe calls for salami and ham, you can swap in other deli meats like pepperoni, prosciutto, or turkey. Similarly, you can experiment with different cheese combinations like mozzarella, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar.

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Italian Sliders Recipe

Italian Sliders Recipe


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4.8 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Succulent Italian sliders bring classic Mediterranean flavors to miniature burger perfection. Packed with zesty herbs, melted cheese, and aromatic seasonings, this compact dish delivers big taste in small, irresistible bites you will crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 Hawaiian rolls (or slider buns)
  • 6 slices salami
  • 6 slices deli ham
  • 6 slices provolone cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Binding Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) butter (melted)
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven to reach 350°F and lightly coat a rectangular baking pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Carefully slice the connected Hawaiian rolls horizontally, maintaining their structural integrity, creating a top and bottom layer.
  3. Arrange the bottom roll section in the prepared baking dish, creating a foundational layer for the sliders.
  4. Meticulously layer the rolls with alternating slices of salami and ham, ensuring complete coverage across the surface.
  5. Distribute provolone cheese evenly over the meat, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella to create a rich, melty base.
  6. Gently place the top half of the rolls over the cheese layer, aligning them precisely with the bottom section.
  7. In a separate mixing bowl, combine melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese to create a flavorful glaze.
  8. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the top of the rolls with the prepared butter mixture, ensuring even distribution.
  9. Shield the sliders with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes to allow the cheese to begin melting.
  10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the tops turn golden brown and the cheese becomes fully melted and bubbly.
  11. Extract from the oven and allow the sliders to rest for a few minutes to set and cool slightly.
  12. Carefully slice into individual portions and serve while still warm, allowing guests to enjoy the gooey, flavorful mini sandwiches.

Notes

  • Customize meat choices by swapping salami and ham with turkey, roast beef, or vegetarian alternatives for different dietary preferences.
  • Use gluten-free Hawaiian rolls or make your own low-carb version using lettuce wraps for a celiac-friendly adaptation.
  • Dial down garlic powder intensity for sensitive palates or boost herbs for more robust flavor profiles.
  • Prepare sliders ahead of time by assembling and refrigerating, then baking just before serving to maintain maximum freshness and crispy texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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