Hot Italian Sub Sliders

This hot Italian sub slider recipe transforms classic deli sandwiches into a party-ready treat that always disappears fast at gatherings. The combination of three meats and provolone cheese with tangy peppers creates that authentic Italian sub flavor in a convenient, shareable form.

I first made these for a neighborhood potluck when I was short on time, and they've become my signature dish that friends specifically request whenever we get together.

Ingredients

• Kings Hawaiian rolls: Preferred for their slight sweetness that complements the savory fillings
• Thinly sliced ham: Provides a mild base flavor that lets the other ingredients shine
• Salami: Adds that classic Italian deli flavor with its perfect balance of salt and spice
• Pepperoni: Brings a spicy kick that makes these sliders special
• Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and has that authentic Italian sub taste
• Pepperoncini: Delivers tangy brightness that cuts through the richness
• Hot cherry peppers: Add color and a spicy punch that wakes up your taste buds
• Butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning: Create an irresistible aromatic topping
• Fresh garlic: Strongly recommended over jarred for the best flavor intensity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This moderate temperature allows the sliders to warm through completely while melting the cheese and crisping the tops without burning.

Create the Base:

Carefully slice your Hawaiian rolls horizontally keeping them connected. Place the bottom half on a baking sheet. This connected approach makes assembly much faster than individual sandwiches.

Layer the Meats and Cheese:

Start with ham as your foundation layer covering all the bread surface. Follow with salami then pepperoni creating distinct flavor layers. Top with provolone making sure it covers all the meat this will help everything stay together when melted.

Add the Peppers:

Distribute the sliced cherry peppers and pepperoncini evenly across the cheese layer. The peppers add essential acidity and heat that balances the rich meats and cheese.

Prepare the Topping:

Mix melted butter with Italian seasoning and freshly crushed garlic until well combined. This aromatic mixture will seep into the bread creating flavor in every bite.

Brush and Cover:

Generously brush the butter mixture over the assembled sliders getting into all the nooks and crannies. Cover the entire tray with foil to trap steam and help the cheese melt properly.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake for approximately 30 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is completely melted. The foil helps prevent the tops from browning too quickly.

Slice and Serve:

Let the sliders cool for just a minute then slice along the natural divisions of the rolls. Serve immediately while still warm with optional marinara dipping sauce on the side.

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The pepperoncini might seem like a small addition but they bring an authentic Italian sub shop flavor that transforms these sliders from good to spectacular. My family fights over the pieces with extra peppers so I now add more than the recipe suggests.

Make Ahead Options

These sliders work beautifully as a make ahead dish. Assemble everything up to the butter topping step the day before then cover and refrigerate. About 30 minutes before serving bring them to room temperature add the butter mixture and bake as directed. The flavors actually improve with a little time to meld together.

Perfect Pairings

Serve these hot Italian sub sliders alongside a simple green salad with Italian vinaigrette to balance the richness. For larger gatherings they pair wonderfully with pasta salad baked beans or roasted vegetables. The marinara dipping sauce is optional but highly recommended it adds a bright tomato component that completes the Italian flavor profile.

Customization Ideas

The basic formula for these sliders can be adapted to many preferences. For a milder version omit the hot cherry peppers and use banana peppers instead. Vegetarians can enjoy a version with layers of grilled vegetables roasted red peppers and multiple cheeses. You can also add thinly sliced red onion fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of Italian dressing for extra flavor.

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These Italian sub sliders make any gathering a hit. Everyone loves them!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these Hot Italian Sub Sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble these sliders up to 24 hours in advance. Prepare everything as directed but don't add the butter topping until just before baking. Keep assembled sliders covered in the refrigerator, then brush with the garlic butter mixture and bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for Kings Hawaiian rolls?

Any soft dinner roll or slider bun works well. Try brioche rolls, potato rolls, or even plain slider buns. The key is finding rolls that are connected in a sheet so they're easy to slice horizontally all at once.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives for these sliders?

Absolutely! Replace the meats with grilled vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and roasted red peppers. You could also use plant-based meat alternatives and still keep the provolone (or dairy-free cheese for a vegan version). The garlic-herb butter topping works well with any filling.

→ How spicy are these sliders?

These sliders have a medium heat level from the pepperoncini and hot cherry peppers. For a milder version, reduce or omit the hot cherry peppers and use mild pepperoncini. For more heat, add red pepper flakes to the butter topping or include spicy salami varieties.

→ What sides pair well with these sliders?

These sliders pair beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping, as suggested in the recipe. Other great sides include Italian pasta salad, potato chips, pickles, or a simple green salad with Italian dressing. For a heartier meal, serve alongside tomato soup or minestrone.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, these sliders freeze well both before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble without the butter topping, wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in refrigerator overnight, add butter topping and bake. Already baked sliders can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months and reheated in the oven at 325°F until warm.