These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are like little bundles of happiness! With layers of savory meats, melted cheese, and zesty toppings, they’re perfect for any meal or snack.
What I love is how easy they are to make! Just pile everything on slider buns and pop them in the oven. You’ll have a tasty treat that everyone will want to munch on! 🥪
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I love using soft slider buns that are pillowy and perfect for holding all those delicious fillings. If you can’t find them, dinner rolls work well. Whole grain or gluten-free options are also available!
Meats: Genoa salami, pepperoni, and ham are traditional, but feel free to mix things up! You can use turkey, roast beef, or even a veggie option like grilled veggies if you’re looking for a lighter alternative.
Provolone Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but mozzarella is a great substitute if you prefer something milder. Swiss cheese would work too, adding a different flavor twist.
Roasted Red Peppers: They add a wonderful taste and color. If fresh peppers are on hand, you can roast them yourself or simply use jarred ones for convenience. For a smoky flavor, consider trying chipotle peppers instead.
Basil: Fresh basil brightens the dish nicely. If you don’t have fresh, you can use dried basil, though I would suggest using less since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How Do I Get My Sliders Extra Flavorful?
Flavor is key in Hot Italian Sub Sliders! One important step is to properly season your sliders. Here’s how:
- Start by brushing the melted butter and seasoning mixture over the top of the buns. This gives them a nice golden color and adds depth to the flavor.
- Don’t skip the Italian dressing mixed with mayonnaise; it boosts flavor and moisture, creating a yummy layer between the meats and cheese.
- Letting the sliders sit in the oven covered with foil helps meld all those tasty flavors together while keeping everything nice and warm. For extra crispiness, remove the foil at the end!
With these tips, your Hot Italian Sub Sliders will be a hit!
Hot Italian Sub Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or dinner rolls, split horizontally
- 6 oz sliced Genoa salami
- 6 oz sliced pepperoni
- 6 oz sliced ham
- 12 slices provolone cheese
- 1/4 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
For the Spreads & Seasoning:
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Italian dressing
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of baking time. So, in just about 30 minutes, you can serve up these mouthwatering sliders that everyone will enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First thing, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your sliders are ready to go in!
2. Prepare the Buns:
Take the slider buns or dinner rolls and carefully slice them in half horizontally. Make sure not to cut all the way through! Then, place the bottom halves on a baking tray.
3. Spread the Mayonnaise:
Now, grab that mayonnaise and spread it evenly on the bottom half of each bun. This adds creaminess and helps hold everything together!
4. Layer the Meats:
Next, start layering the sliced Genoa salami, pepperoni, and ham on top of the mayonnaise. Make sure to distribute the meats evenly for tasty bites.
5. Add the Cheese:
Place two slices of provolone cheese over the layers of meat. This is where the magic happens—melty, gooey cheese makes everything better!
6. Top with Roasted Peppers and Basil:
Now, add the sliced roasted red peppers and a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil over the cheese for a pop of flavor!
7. Mix Up the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the Italian dressing with a bit more mayonnaise. Spread this mixture lightly on the inside of the top halves of the buns.
8. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the top halves over the assembled bottom buns to complete your sliders.
9. Season the Tops:
In another small bowl, combine melted butter, dried oregano, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes, along with some salt and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the tops of all the slider buns.
10. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
11. Toast the Tops (Optional):
If you like a little extra crispiness, remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on them!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Then, serve them warm and watch them disappear!
Enjoy your delicious Hot Italian Sub Sliders with their perfect combination of melty cheese, zesty meats, and flavorful toppings! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use Different Meats in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite deli meats like turkey, roast beef, or even a mix of different kinds. Just make sure they’re sliced thin for easy layering.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to keep them moist.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the sliders up to a day in advance and cover them tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Just add an extra few minutes to the baking time if you’re baking them straight from the fridge.
What Can I Serve with Hot Italian Sub Sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with a side of potato chips, a fresh salad, or some crispy roasted vegetables. They’re perfect for a party or game day snack!