Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe

Zesty Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe for Hungry Fans

Nothing beats the excitement of game day munchies like these irresistible cheesy pizza sliders that pack a flavor punch in every single bite.

Soft slider rolls nestled with zesty pizza ingredients create the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Melted cheese cascades over savory pepperoni and tangy marinara sauce, promising a delectable experience.

Each slider delivers a perfect blend of comfort and game day enthusiasm.

The miniature sandwiches bring serious wow factor to your spread without complicated preparation.

Loaded with classic pizza flavors, these sliders will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Prepare to become the MVP of your next game day gathering.

Pro Tips for Cheesy Pizza Slider Lovers

  • Use a serrated knife for clean, even cuts when halving the rolls to ensure uniform layers and easy serving.
  • Spread pizza sauce sparingly to prevent soggy sliders; a thin, even layer keeps bread crisp and flavors balanced.
  • Mix mozzarella with provolone for extra depth, or try a blend of cheeses to elevate the slider's flavor profile.
  • Swap pepperoni with crispy bacon, shredded chicken, or vegetarian sausage crumbles for personalized game day variety.
  • Toast herbs in butter before mixing to intensify Italian seasoning's aroma and release deeper flavor notes.

Cheesy Pizza Sliders Twists and Options

  • Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace pepperoni with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach for a colorful, meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Slider Swap: Use gluten-free slider rolls and ensure pizza sauce is gluten-free for celiac-friendly option.
  • Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Substitute pepperoni with crumbled feta, add oregano, and use olive oil instead of butter for a Mediterranean-inspired slider.
  • Spicy Jalapeño Kick: Add diced jalapeños, swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat lovers.

Cheesy Pizza Sliders Serving Inspiration

  • Crowd-Pleasing Party Platter: Arrange sliders on a large wooden board with small bowls of extra pizza sauce and ranch for dipping. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color.
  • Game Night Sidekick: Pair these sliders with crispy chicken wings, celery sticks, and a cold beer for the ultimate sports-watching spread. Add a small side salad to balance the richness.
  • Leftover Magic: Transform any remaining sliders into a quick breakfast by topping with a fried egg and serving alongside fresh fruit. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
  • Family-Style Feast: Create a build-your-own slider station with extra toppings like sliced olives, jalapeños, and additional meats so everyone can customize their perfect bite.

Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders Storage Tips

  • Store leftover sliders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them in the coldest part of your refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • Warm sliders in the oven at 350F for 10-12 minutes to restore crispy edges and melty cheese. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy bread.
  • Wrap individual or whole batch of sliders tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 2 months for quick future meals. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Place a paper towel inside storage container to absorb excess moisture and keep sliders crisp when refrigerated.

FAQs

  • What are the key ingredients in Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders?

The main ingredients include dinner rolls, pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese.

  • Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sliders in advance and refrigerate them before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

  • Are these sliders good for feeding a crowd?

Absolutely! These sliders are perfect for game day, parties, or gatherings because they’re easy to make and can be quickly prepared for multiple people.

Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders Standout Qualities

  • Whip Up Game Day Magic: These sliders transform ordinary party food into an irresistible crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone coming back for more.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap pepperoni for ham, swap mozzarella for cheddar, or add extra veggies – this recipe welcomes creative twists without complicated techniques.
  • Super Quick Preparation: From start to finish, you'll have delicious sliders ready faster than ordering takeout, making it perfect for unexpected guests or spontaneous gatherings.
  • No-Fuss Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will devour these cheesy, saucy bites, creating zero mealtime battles and maximum smiles around the table.

Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:
  • Hawaiian Sweet Rolls: Soft, slightly sweet rolls that form the base of these delicious sliders.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Creamy, melty cheese that provides a classic pizza flavor and gooey texture.
  • Pepperoni: Spicy, savory meat that brings traditional pizza taste to the sliders.
  • Pizza Sauce: Tangy tomato-based sauce that adds classic pizza flavor.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Garlic Powder, Italian Seasoning: Aromatic herbs and spices that enhance the overall pizza-inspired flavor profile.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty cheese that adds depth and richness to the topping.
Binding Ingredients:
  • Butter, Melted: Helps create a golden, flavorful topping that adds moisture and richness to the sliders.

How to Make Cheesy Pizza Sliders for Parties

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350°F.

Grab a 9×13 baking dish and give it a quick spray or brush with cooking oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Split the Slider Squad

Take your package of slider rolls and slice them clean in half horizontally.

Gently nestle the bottom half of the rolls into your greased baking dish, creating a soft foundation for your flavor explosion.

Step 3: Create Flavor Layers

Start building your delicious pizza slider masterpiece with these tasty ingredients:
  • Pizza sauce
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Pepperoni slices

Spread a generous layer of sauce, sprinkle mozzarella, scatter pepperoni, then repeat the sauce and cheese layers for maximum taste impact.

Step 4: Crown Your Creation

Carefully place the top half of the slider rolls over your loaded bottom layer, creating a delicious sandwich-style slider.

Step 5: Whip Up the Magic Butter Blend

In a small bowl, mix together:
  • Melted butter
  • Garlic powder
  • Italian seasoning
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Brush the butter mixture generously over the top of your sliders.

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Then uncover and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the cheese gets all melty and irresistible.

Print
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Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe

Game Day Cheesy Pizza Sliders Recipe


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4.8 from 22 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Game day cheesy pizza sliders bring together the best of pizza and slider magic in one irresistible bite. Melted cheese, zesty pepperoni, and buttery rolls create a crowd-pleasing appetizer you’ll crave at every gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 package (12-count) King’s Hawaiian rolls
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
  • 24 slices pepperoni
  • 3/4 cup (180 milliliters) pizza sauce

Seasoning and Topping Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Finishing Ingredients:

  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish with a light grease coating to prevent sticking.
  2. Carefully slice the entire package of rolls horizontally, creating a top and bottom section, and gently place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish.
  3. Create delicious layers by spreading pizza sauce across the roll base, followed by an even distribution of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices, then repeat the sauce and cheese layers for maximum flavor.
  4. Delicately position the top half of the rolls over the layered ingredients, creating a complete slider assembly.
  5. Craft a flavorful topping by combining melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan cheese in a small mixing bowl.
  6. Generously brush the prepared butter mixture across the top of the rolls, ensuring even coverage for enhanced taste and golden coloration.
  7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sliders achieve a beautiful golden-brown appearance.

Notes

  • Customize pepperoni with alternative protein options like grilled chicken, ham, or plant-based alternatives for different dietary preferences.
  • Swap traditional rolls with gluten-free or low-carb bread options to accommodate specific nutritional needs.
  • Create a vegetarian version by replacing pepperoni with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini for added nutrition.
  • Reduce sodium and calories by using part-skim mozzarella and turkey pepperoni while maintaining delicious flavor profile.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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