Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders: The Ultimate Snack for Your Next Party

Game day is all about delicious food, fun company, and, of course, plenty of snacks to keep everyone satisfied. When it comes to crowd-pleasing recipes, these cheesy pizza sliders are an absolute winner. Featuring soft and sweet King’s Hawaiian rolls filled with gooey mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and a generous slathering of pizza sauce, these sliders are the perfect bite-sized treat. Topped with a flavorful garlic butter glaze and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, they’re sure to steal the show at any game day gathering.

These pizza sliders are not only incredibly delicious but also incredibly easy to make. They come together in just a few simple steps, making them the perfect option when you’re looking for something quick and easy to serve. Whether you’re watching the big game with friends or hosting a casual family get-together, these cheesy pizza sliders will be devoured in no time.

With the rich flavors of melted cheese, tangy pizza sauce, and the satisfying crunch from the butter and seasoning topping, these sliders are the ultimate game day snack that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfect Game Day Snack

These sliders are ideal for feeding a crowd, whether you’re hosting a game day party or a casual get-together. They’re easy to grab and go, making them the ultimate finger food.

2. Loaded with Flavor

The combination of mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and pizza sauce creates a deliciously cheesy and savory experience, while the garlic butter glaze and Parmesan cheese add extra depth of flavor.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

With just a few simple ingredients, these sliders come together quickly and effortlessly. No complicated steps or long preparation times – just easy, tasty snacks for everyone to enjoy.

4. Customizable

Feel free to swap out the pepperoni for other toppings like sausage, ham, or veggies to suit your guests’ preferences. You can even make them meat-free for vegetarians!

5. Perfect for Leftovers

These sliders can be stored and reheated easily, so any leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making them a great option for meal prep or leftovers after your game day feast.

Ingredients

• 1 package (12-count) King’s Hawaiian rolls
• 3/4 cup pizza sauce
• 12 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• 24 slices pepperoni
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

1. Veggie Pizza Sliders

Swap the pepperoni for your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, for a meatless version of these cheesy pizza sliders.

2. BBQ Chicken Pizza Sliders

Add cooked shredded chicken and BBQ sauce in place of the pizza sauce for a tangy twist on this classic recipe.

3. Spicy Pizza Sliders

For a little heat, add jalapeño slices or sprinkle red pepper flakes inside the sliders before baking.

4. Extra Cheesy Sliders

If you’re a fan of extra cheese, feel free to layer in some additional mozzarella or even add provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.

5. Mini Margherita Pizza Sliders

For a fresh take, try using fresh basil leaves, sliced tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil, mimicking a Margherita pizza.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the whole package of King’s Hawaiian rolls in a baking dish, keeping them intact (don’t separate them yet). This will make it easier to assemble the sliders.

Step 2: Add the Pizza Sauce

Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce over the top of the rolls, ensuring that each roll gets a good coating.

Step 3: Layer the Cheese and Pepperoni

Top the pizza sauce with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Then, add 2 slices of pepperoni to each roll. Feel free to add more pepperoni for an extra meaty bite!

Step 4: Melt the Butter and Add Seasonings

In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter and mix in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this seasoned butter mixture over the top of the sliders, making sure each one is evenly coated.

Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the sliders. This will give them a golden, crispy finish when baked.

Step 6: Bake the Sliders

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a slightly crispier top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes. Slice along the seams of the rolls and serve these cheesy pizza sliders immediately. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh mozzarella and high-quality pepperoni.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings to these sliders—anything from mushrooms to olives to bacon.
• Keep the Rolls Intact: By leaving the rolls in a whole block, you ensure that each slider stays together while baking. Just slice them after they’ve been cooked!
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the sliders as they bake to ensure they don’t get overcooked and dry out. Remove them from the oven once the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How to Serve

• As an Appetizer: These sliders are perfect as an appetizer for your game day spread. Serve with a side of marinara or ranch for dipping.
• For a Full Meal: Serve these sliders with a fresh salad or a side of baked fries for a complete meal.
• On a Buffet Table: Arrange the sliders on a large platter and let your guests grab them as they please. They’re perfect for serving at a buffet or party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pizza sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their gooey, cheesy texture.

Freezing

To freeze, bake the sliders as directed but without the garlic butter topping. Once baked, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, bake them from frozen, adding the garlic butter topping and baking for 20-25 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat leftover sliders in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. For extra cheese, you can add a little more mozzarella on top before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread for the sliders?

Yes! If you prefer a different type of bread, you can use any small rolls or sandwich buns, but King’s Hawaiian rolls give them a unique sweetness.

2. Can I make these sliders without pepperoni?

Yes! You can swap out the pepperoni for other toppings like sausage, ham, or even veggies for a more customizable slider.

3. Can I freeze the sliders?

Yes, you can freeze these sliders before baking or after baking. Follow the instructions above for freezing.

4. How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure to drain excess moisture from any toppings, such as sauce or vegetables, before adding them to the sliders.

5. Can I make the sliders vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the pepperoni with vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for a vegetarian version.

6. How long do the sliders need to bake?

Bake the sliders for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the tops are golden brown.

7. Can I add other cheeses to the sliders?

Absolutely! You can add a mix of cheeses, such as cheddar or provolone, for a more complex flavor.

8. How do I make the sliders spicier?

To add heat, include jalapeño slices or use spicy pepperoni. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking.

9. Can I make these sliders in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders ahead of time, cover them, and store them in the fridge. Then, bake them when you’re ready to serve.

10. Are these sliders suitable for meal prep?

These sliders are great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

Conclusion

These Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders are the perfect snack to serve at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just looking for a quick and easy dinner, these cheesy, pepperoni-filled sliders will be a hit with everyone. With their delicious combination of melted cheese, savory toppings, and the irresistible garlic butter glaze, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for all your future gatherings.

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