Experience the irresistible charm of classic Italian deli flavors bundled into warm, buttery sliders that are perfect for any occasion. These Italian sub sliders capture the essence of a hearty sandwich — layers of savory meats, melted provolone, tangy peppers, and fresh veggies — all baked together for a cozy, pull-apart meal that’s both satisfying and simple.
Whether you are hosting a game day, throwing a party, or need a quick weeknight dinner, these sliders combine comfort and convenience effortlessly. Get ready for a flavor-packed bite that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Quick assembly with common deli ingredients saves time without sacrificing taste.
- Buttery toasted tops create a beautiful golden finish and delicious crunch.
- Versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, lunch, or light dinner option.
- Pull-apart style makes it easy for sharing and casual eating at gatherings.
Ingredients
- King’s Hawaiian Dinner Rolls: Soft, slightly sweet rolls provide the perfect fluffy base for slider assembly and baking.
- Deli Sliced Ham: Thinly sliced savory ham adds a mild, juicy layer for authentic Italian subs.
- Sliced Salami: Adds a rich, slightly spicy depth that enhances the flavor complexity of the sandwich.
- Sliced Pepperoni: Delivers a bold, smoky kick that balances the milder meats beautifully.
- Provolone Cheese: Melts perfectly over the meats giving creamy texture and a mild, tangy taste.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses each bite with an aromatic Italian flair.
- Roma Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, these chopped tomatoes add brightness and a subtle sweetness.
- Red Onion: Chopped for a crisp, slightly sharp contrast to the savory fillings.
- Pepperoncini Peppers: Sliced and drained to provide a tangy, mildly spicy bite that complements the meats.
- Butter: Used to create a flavorful brushing mixture that crisps and browns the top of the rolls.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the butter glaze for a gourmet touch.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the buttery topping with warm, savory undertones.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty finish that crisps beautifully under heat.
- Shredded Lettuce: Added after baking to preserve crunch and freshness in each slider.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
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Set your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking and perfect cheese melting. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup, especially from melted cheese drippings.
- Slice Rolls Carefully
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Using a bread knife, slice the King’s Hawaiian rolls horizontally but keep the sandwich halves connected as a tray. This technique simplifies layering and keeps the sliders intact during baking.
- Layer the Meats and Cheese
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Place the bottom half of the rolls on the prepared sheet, then layer the ham first for a mild base, followed by the savory salami and spicy pepperoni. Top the meats with provolone cheese to melt over the meats for a rich texture and mild tang.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning
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Sprinkle Italian seasoning evenly for authentic herb flavor. Add chopped roma tomatoes, red onions, and drained pepperoncini peppers for a balanced combination of tangy, fresh, and crisp textures.
- Replace Top Buns
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Carefully place the top halves of the rolls back over the layered fillings, pressing lightly to secure all ingredients together in preparation for baking.
- Prepare Butter Mustard Glaze
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In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and whisk in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This flavorful glaze will soak into the bread and create a golden, aromatic crust when baked.
- Brush Tops and Add Parmesan
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Evenly coat the tops of the buns with the butter mixture, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. The cheese adds a savory crust and elevates the flavors.
- Bake Sliders Covered
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Cover the sliders loosely with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes. This gently melts the cheese and warms the ingredients without drying out the bread.
- Toast Tops Uncovered
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp and lightly brown the slider tops, enhancing texture and flavor with a buttery crunch.
- Add Lettuce and Serve Warm
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After baking, remove slider tops and add shredded lettuce to keep its fresh crunch. Replace tops and serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture contrast.
- Keep the lettuce separate until after baking to retain its crisp texture and prevent sogginess.
- Feel free to customize with other favorite Italian cold cuts or add pickles for extra tang.
- Make sure to slice rolls without cutting all the way through to keep sliders together during baking.
Storage Tips
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in an oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness without sogginess.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sliders warm with a side of classic kettle chips or a fresh garden salad. They also pair wonderfully with a cold Italian soda or your favorite craft beer for game day.
- Use a serrated bread knife for clean slicing without squashing the rolls.
- Lightly toast the cut side of the bottom rolls before assembling for extra crispness and to prevent soggy bottoms.
- Experiment with adding fresh basil or a light drizzle of vinaigrette for a gourmet twist.
FAQs
- Can I use other types of bread for these sliders?
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Yes, small sandwich rolls or mini ciabatta buns work well as alternatives to King’s Hawaiian rolls.
- Is it necessary to use provolone cheese?
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Provolone is traditional, but you can substitute mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a milder or nuttier flavor.
- Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?
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You can assemble the sliders and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours. Add lettuce just before serving.
- How do I make these sliders spicier?
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Add sliced jalapeños or use spicier pepperoni varieties to increase the heat level.
- Can I freeze Italian sub sliders?
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Yes, freeze fully assembled sliders without lettuce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
- What sides complement Italian sub sliders?
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Great companions include pasta salads, potato chips, or a crisp Caesar salad to round out the meal.
Italian Sub Sliders
Equipment
- 1 oven
- 1 baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- 1 bread knife
- 1 microwave-safe bowl
- 1 pastry brush for butter mixture
Ingredients
- 12 King's Hawaiian dinner rolls
- ½ lb deli sliced ham
- ½ lb sliced salami
- ¼ lb sliced pepperoni
- 12 slices provolone cheese
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning plus extra for topping
- 2 roma tomatoes chopped
- ½ red onion chopped
- ½ cup sliced pepperoncini peppers drained
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded lettuce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Using a bread knife, slice the dinner rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected, and place the bottom half on the baking sheet.
- Layer the sliced ham, then salami, then pepperoni over the bottom buns.
- Add a layer of provolone cheese and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Top with chopped tomatoes, red onions, and sliced pepperoncini peppers.
- Place the top buns back on the sliders.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt together butter, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning for about 10 seconds, then stir.
- Brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the buns and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the sliders with foil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts and aroma develops.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the tops are toasted.
- Remove sliders from the oven, lift the top buns, add shredded lettuce for crunch if desired, then replace the buns and serve warm.
Notes
- Use lettuce after baking for crisp texture.
- Substitute pepperoni with other deli meats if preferred.
- Store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
