Pepperoni pizza sliders are a simple and satisfying snack or meal. These cheesy, saucy little sandwiches pack all the flavors of your favorite pizza into soft, pull-apart rolls that are perfect for game day, parties or even a fun family dinner. They’re quick to put together, easy to serve and guaranteed to disappear fast.
My family and I are big pizza fans so I decided to put pizza in sandwich form. These little slider sandwiches taste just like your favorite slice of pizza but come in a fun, bite-sized package that everyone loves. Made with soft Hawaiian rolls, gooey cheese and plenty of pepperoni, they’re the kind of meal that feels special without being complicated. Kids can help with the assembly, making it a family-friendly recipe from start to finish.
What I love most about these Hawaiian roll pizza sliders is how well they fit into our busy weeknights. I can prep them ahead of time and slide the pan into the oven when it’s time to eat, which makes dinner a breeze. They’re filling, flavorful and perfect for nights when everyone is running in different directions but we still want to sit down together for a meal. It’s hard to beat a recipe that’s quick, comforting and guaranteed to please the whole table.
If you like this recipe, try my Pizza Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Pepperoni.
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Ingredients
- Hawaiian Rolls – Hawaiian rolls are slightly sweet and are out favorite. You can substitute with any soft bake and serve dinner rolls or slider buns.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella is a great melty option. Fresh mozzarella can be used, but it can be watery.
- Pizza Sauce – Marinara or homemade tomato sauce. A thicker sauce will prevent sogginess.
- Pepperoni Slices – Regular or mini pepperoni both work well.
- Butter – Melted butter adds richness and helps the seasoning stick to the buns. Olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly shredded gives the best flavor. Grated Parmesan or even Pecorino Romano can be used instead.
- Italian Seasoning – Use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Garlic Salt – Substitute with garlic powder and a pinch of salt if needed.
- Fresh Parsley or Basil – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and brightness. Dried herbs can be used in a pinch.
See recipe card for quantities.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
- Step 1: Slice the rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom half onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella over the bottom layer. Spoon the pizza sauce over the cheese and spread it evenly. Layer the sliced pepperoni and then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella. Place the top half of the rolls back onto complete the sliders.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, grated Parmesan, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning.
- Step 3: Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
- Step 4: Bake for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Slice into individual sliders and serve warm with an additional side of pizza sauce.
Hint: Do not separate the Hawaiian rolls. Slice the entire loaf in half horizontally and assemble. Cut into individual sandwiches after baking.
Variations/ Substitutions
- Swap the Meat – Use cooked sausage crumbles, Canadian bacon, turkey pepperoni, shredded chicken or even bacon instead of regular pepperoni.
- Add Veggies – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or spinach to add more flavor or for a meatless option.
- Change the Cheese – Try provolone, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
- Switch the Sauce – Use Alfredo, pesto or barbecue sauce instead of traditional pizza sauce.
- Add Heat – Layer in sliced jalapeños, sprinkle with crushed red pepper, or use spicy pepperoni for a little kick.
Equipment
I like to bake these sliders on a parchment-lined baking sheet because it makes cleanup so much easier. The cheese and sauce can bubble over, but with parchment paper, you can just lift it off and toss it—no scrubbing required.
Storage
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted again. You can also reheat in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes.
Top Tips
- Keep the rolls intact when slicing to make layering easier and ensure the sliders hold together.
- Use a thick pizza sauce so the rolls don’t get soggy.
- Layer cheese both under and over the sauce to create a melty “glue” that keeps the sliders together.
- Brush the butter mixture on right before baking for the best flavor and golden tops.
- Let the sliders rest a few minutes before cutting so the cheese can set slightly and the layers don’t slide apart.
Serving Suggestions
Pepperoni pizza sliders make a hearty meal on their own, but they’re even better paired with simple sides like a crisp salad or roasted vegetables.
If you’re putting together a game-day spread, serve them alongside other crowd-pleasing appetizers like Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings, Tuna Nachos, Pinwheel Antipasto Skewer Appetizers, Grilled Veggie Antipasto, or Bacon and Cheese Wrapped Pierogi. They’re easy to grab and eat with your hands, which makes them perfect for casual gatherings where everyone wants to snack and mingle.
FAQ
Yes, you can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Top with the butter sauce just before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the sliders are chilled.
Use a thicker pizza sauce and add a layer of cheese on the bottom before adding the sauce. This will create a barrier between the sauce and the bread.
Related
More Slider Recipes:
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RECIPE
Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients
- 12- count Hawaiian rolls
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella divided
- 1 ½ cups pizza sauce
- 6 oz pepperoni slices
- ½ cup butter melted
- 2 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- fresh chopped parsley or basil optional for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with nonstick spray.
- Slice the rolls in half horizontally, keeping the entire sheet of rolls intact. Place the bottom half of the rolls onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella evenly over the bottom layer. Spoon the pizza sauce over the cheese and spread it evenly. Layer the sliced pepperoni on top of the sauce. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the pepperoni. Place the top half of the rolls back on to complete the sliders.
- In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, grated Parmesan, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning.
- Brush the butter mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Slice into individual sliders and serve warm with an additional side of pizza sauce.
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