Hot Italian Sub Sliders – sweet dreams kitchen

These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are a crowd-pleaser, bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare! Perfect for tailgates, parties, or a cozy family dinner, these sliders are sure to impress. The combination of savory meats and melted cheese makes them irresistible, while their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Make: With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, these sliders fit perfectly into any busy schedule.
Flavor Packed: The mix of chicken ham, turkey pepperoni, and provolone delivers a delightful taste in every bite.
Versatile Serving Options: These sliders can be served as an appetizer, lunch, or snack and easily scaled up for larger gatherings.
Easy Clean-Up: Using a single baking sheet means less mess and more time enjoying your delicious creation.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking sheet
Small bowl
Brush for butter
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and browning of the sliders without sticking.
Small bowl: Ideal for mixing ingredients like butter and seasonings, keeping your workspace organized.
Brush for butter: Makes it easy to spread the seasoned butter mixture evenly across the tops of the sliders.

Ingredients

These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are packed with flavor and so easy to throw together! They are perfect for a tailgate or gathering and can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd.

Ingredients:
– 12 pack rolls, halved lengthwise (I recommend Kings Hawaiian rolls)
– 6 oz package of chicken ham, thinly sliced
– 5 oz package of turkey slices, thinly sliced
– 5 oz package of turkey pepperoni, thinly sliced
– 9 slices provolone cheese
– 1/3 cup pepperoncini, sliced
– 1/3 cup pickled hot cherry peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, crushed (I recommend fresh over jarred.)
– 1 cup marinara sauce

How to Make Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your sliders will cook evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Rolls

Lay the bottom half of the rolls on a baking sheet.
Layer on the slices of chicken ham first.
Top with turkey slices followed by turkey pepperoni.
Add a layer of provolone cheese.
Finish with sliced hot cherry peppers and pepperoncini on top.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

In a small bowl:
* Combine melted butter with Italian seasoning and crushed garlic.
* Mix until well combined.

Brush the seasoned butter mixture generously over the top of the assembled sliders, making sure every nook is coated.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the sliders with foil. Bake in preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from oven, slice into individual sliders, and enjoy! I recommend serving with a side of your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.

This recipe yields 12 delicious Hot Italian Sub Sliders ready to satisfy any crowd!

How to Serve Hot Italian Sub Sliders

These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are versatile and can be served in various ways, making them a perfect choice for any gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Classic Presentation

Serve the sliders on a large platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing at parties.

Dipping Sauces

Offer a selection of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mustard for guests to dip their sliders, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Slider Bar

Create a slider bar with additional toppings like sliced olives, lettuce, or tomatoes, allowing guests to customize their sliders.

Pair with Chips

Accompany the sliders with crispy potato chips or tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch alongside the soft bread.

Fresh Salad

Serve with a light salad, such as a mixed greens or Caesar salad, to balance the hearty flavors of the sliders.

How to Perfect Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Making these Hot Italian Sub Sliders is simple, but here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh bread and quality meats enhance flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the butter mixture: Brushing the tops with seasoned melted butter adds richness and helps achieve that golden brown color.
Layer wisely: Alternating layers of meat and cheese ensures even distribution of flavors.
Cover while baking: Covering with foil prevents over-browning while the insides cook thoroughly.
Let them rest: Allowing sliders to sit for a few minutes after baking helps meld the flavors together before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Pairing side dishes with your Hot Italian Sub Sliders can complement their deliciousness. Here are some great options:

Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s perfect for dipping into marinara sauce.
Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the richness of the sliders.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for an excellent side dish.
Caprese Salad: This fresh salad of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella provides a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender offer both color and nutrition to your meal.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of savory sliders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Hot Italian Sub Sliders can be a hit at any gathering, but there are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong type of bread can affect the texture. Always opt for soft rolls like Kings Hawaiian for the perfect bite.
Bold layering errors: Neglecting to layer ingredients properly can lead to uneven flavors. Make sure to layer toppings in the right order for balanced taste.
Bold butter application: Skipping or underapplying the seasoned butter can result in dry sliders. Don’t forget to coat every inch of the top with your butter mixture!
Bold cooking time: Overbaking can make your sliders tough. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure they remain soft and golden.
Bold serving suggestions: Forgetting dipping sauces can take away from the experience. Always serve with marinara sauce or other favorites for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Sliders will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Wrap individual sliders tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, covered, until warmed, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Hot Italian Sub Sliders?

Hot Italian Sub Sliders are mini sandwiches filled with layers of sliced meats, cheeses, and peppers, all baked together for a warm and delicious treat.

Can I customize my Hot Italian Sub Sliders?

Yes! You can customize your sliders by adding different cheeses, using various deli meats, or including extra veggies like spinach or roasted red peppers.

How do I make these sliders spicier?

To add heat, include more pickled hot cherry peppers or use spicy cheese varieties like pepper jack in your Hot Italian Sub Sliders.

How long does it take to prepare Hot Italian Sub Sliders?

Preparation time is quick—only about 5 minutes—and then it takes around 30 minutes to bake them!

Final Thoughts

These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a party snack, they are sure to impress your guests. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients and enjoy their deliciousness!