Hot Italian Sub Sliders

These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are packed with flavor and so easy to throw together! Perfect for tailgates or gatherings, they can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd. With layers of savory meats and melted cheese, these sliders will be a hit at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in just 35 minutes, making them perfect for busy days.
• Flavor-Packed: Each bite is loaded with delicious ingredients, ensuring everyone will love them.
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer or main dish, these sliders suit various occasions.
• Crowd-Pleaser: They can easily serve a large group, making them ideal for parties or game days.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix up the ingredients based on your preferences!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Small bowl
• Brush for basting

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for even cooking of the sliders while allowing easy access for serving.
• Small bowl: Handy for mixing sauces and seasonings without making a mess.
• Brush for basting: Ensures even coverage of the seasoned butter mixture over 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.

For the Sliders

• 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

For the Seasoning

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed (I recommend fresh over jarred.)

For Dipping

• 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 bake evenly and achieve that golden brown finish.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

Lay the bottom half of the rolls on a baking sheet.

1. Layer on slices of chicken ham.
2. Top with turkey slices, followed by a layer of turkey pepperoni.
3. Add a layer of provolone cheese.
4. Finally, layer on sliced hot cherry peppers and pepperoncini before replacing the top bun.

Step 3: Prepare the Seasoning Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter with Italian seasoning and crushed garlic. Mix well to ensure everything is blended.

Step 4: Baste the Sliders

Brush the seasoned butter mixture generously over the top of the sliders. Make sure all nooks and crannies are coated for maximum flavor!

Step 5: Bake

Cover the sliders with foil and bake at 350 degrees F for about 30 minutes until they are golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Hot Italian Sub Sliders

These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are a fantastic addition to any gathering. Their delicious flavors and easy-to-eat format make them perfect for parties, game days, or casual dinners. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your slider experience.

Pair with Marinara Sauce

• Serve the sliders with a side of warm marinara sauce for dipping. It adds an extra burst of flavor and moisture.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad can balance the richness of the sliders. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette.

Offer Extra Toppings

• Provide additional toppings like sliced olives or fresh basil on the side. Guests can customize their sliders to their liking.

Serve with Chips

• Crunchy potato chips or vegetable chips make a great crunchy contrast to the soft sliders. Choose a flavor that complements the spices in your sliders.

Include Pickles or Relish

• A side of pickles or relish can enhance the flavors and add a tangy element that pairs well with the hot ingredients.

How to Perfect Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Creating perfect Hot Italian Sub Sliders is all about attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your sliders turn out amazing every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh meats, cheeses, and toppings will enhance flavor significantly. Avoid anything that feels processed.
• Brush Generously: Ensure you coat the tops of the sliders well with the seasoned butter mixture. This will create a golden, flavorful crust.
• Layer Thoughtfully: When assembling, layer ingredients evenly so each slider gets a good mix of flavors in every bite.
• Cover While Baking: Covering sliders with foil during baking helps them steam slightly, keeping them moist and preventing burning.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the sliders to cool for a few minutes after baking. This makes slicing easier and helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Hot Italian Sub Sliders

To round out your meal, consider pairing these Hot Italian Sub Sliders with some delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements any Italian-inspired dish beautifully.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add freshness to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide a healthy and colorful addition.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned well offer comfort food vibes that pair perfectly with sliders.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the sliders nicely.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs make for an elegant finger food option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will help you make the best Hot Italian Sub Sliders. Here are some tips to ensure your sliders turn out perfectly every time.

• Bold ingredient choices: Using the wrong meats or cheeses can alter the flavor. Stick to chicken, turkey, and provolone for authentic taste.
• Incorrect layering: Skipping layers or not distributing ingredients evenly can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure each slider has a balanced amount of filling.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season your butter mixture can make the sliders bland. Always mix in Italian seasoning and garlic for maximum flavor.
• Improper baking time: Baking for too long can dry out the sliders. Keep an eye on them after 25 minutes to achieve that golden brown finish without overcooking.
• Skipping the marinara dip: Serving without marinara sauce can miss an essential flavor component. Always include it as a dipping option for extra taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Hot Italian Sub Sliders

• Wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating Hot Italian Sub Sliders

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake wrapped sliders for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel; heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hot Italian Sub Sliders.

How can I customize my Hot Italian Sub Sliders?

You can add different veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms, or substitute meats according to your preference for a unique twist.

Can I make these sliders vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute meats with grilled vegetables, roasted red peppers, or plant-based deli slices, and use vegan cheese if desired.

What dips pair well with Hot Italian Sub Sliders?

Aside from marinara sauce, try ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy mustard for added flavor options.

Can I use other types of rolls?

Absolutely! While Kings Hawaiian rolls are recommended, you can use any soft dinner rolls or even ciabatta bread for a different texture.

How long do Hot Italian Sub Sliders last?

When stored properly, they can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are not only flavorful but also versatile enough for any gathering. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these sliders will surely be a hit!