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Easy Pizza Sliders

These irresistible pizza sliders are the perfect fusion of soft Hawaiian rolls, savory pizza toppings, and a buttery garlic-parmesan crust. Ready in 30 minutes, they're a guaranteed hit for any gathering or a fun family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American-Italian
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package Hawaiian sweet rolls (12 count) Do not separate the rolls; keep them connected in the rectangular slab.
  • 8 oz block mozzarella cheese Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents.
  • 24 slices pepperoni Standard size; you can also use mini pepperoni for better coverage.
  • 1 cup pizza sauce Use a high-quality jarred sauce or your favorite homemade recipe.
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter Melted, for the garlic-parmesan topping.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese For the topping.
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes Optional, for a little heat.

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish or rimmed baking sheet
  • Parchment paper (optional, for easier cleanup)
  • Sharp serrated knife or bread knife
  • Pastry brush
  • Small bowl for mixing butter topping
  • Box grater (if grating your own cheese)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Without separating the individual rolls, slice the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom 'bun.' Place the bottom half in a 9x13 inch baking dish or on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Spread 3/4 cup of the pizza sauce evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. Layer on half of the grated mozzarella cheese, followed by all of the pepperoni slices. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/4 cup of pizza sauce. Place the top half of the rolls back on.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan. Brush this mixture generously and evenly over the top of the rolls, making sure it seeps into the seams. Sprinkle with optional red pepper flakes.
  4. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the tops of the rolls are a beautiful golden brown.
  5. Remove from the oven and let the sliders rest for 5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly so they don't fall apart when you cut them. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice along the pre-scored lines into 12 individual sliders. Serve warm.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• Letting the sliders rest for 5 minutes after baking is non-negotiable for clean cuts.
• Don't skip the foil cover for the first bake—it prevents the tops from burning before the center is hot.
• Serve with a small bowl of warm pizza sauce for extra dipping.
Food Safety:
• Ensure sliders reach an internal temperature of 165°F if adding cooked meat like sausage or chicken.
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of baking.