Cheesy Italian Sub Sliders Recipe

Irresistible Cheesy Italian Sub Sliders Recipe: Fun Party Bites!

Hearty sandwiches packed with classic italian sub flavors can seriously elevate any casual gathering.

These cheesy italian sub sliders combine layers of savory meats and melted cheese between soft, pillowy rolls.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of zesty salami, pepperoni, and ham nestled with provolone.

The tangy pepperoncini and rich marinara sauce add a bold punch of flavor that makes these sliders irresistible.

Simple to assemble and quick to bake, they’re ideal for game day or weekend snacking.

Hungry guests won’t be able to resist these delectable mini sandwiches that bring big Italian deli vibes to your table.

Tools That Help You Build Hot Italian Sub Sliders

  • Baking Dish (9×13): Essential for assembling and baking sliders.
  • Knife: Sharp tool for slicing rolls horizontally.
  • Small Mixing Bowls (2): Perfect for preparing butter mixture and sauce.
  • Pastry Brush: Ideal for spreading butter over rolls.
  • Foil: Helps cover sliders during initial baking.
  • Cutting Board: Provides surface for slicing ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning amounts.

How to Toast and Fill Hot Italian Sub Sliders

  • Fire Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 350F. Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking.

  • Split The Rolls

Slice those sweet Hawaiian rolls right down the middle, keeping them connected like a delicious little sandwich family. Nestle the bottom half into your greased pan.

  • Create A Zesty Spread

Whip together a creamy sauce mixing mayonnaise and tangy Italian dressing. Slather this goodness generously across the roll bottoms.

  • Build Your Flavor Tower

Layer in your meats and cheese with gusto – start with salami, then pepperoni, ham, and provolone. Scatter roasted red peppers and banana peppers for an extra flavor punch. Dust everything with Italian seasoning for maximum deliciousness.

  • Crown And Butter

Cap the sliders with the top roll halves. Melt some butter and mix in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Brush this magical mixture all over the rolls.

  • Bake To Perfection

Cover the pan with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and continue baking 5-7 minutes until the tops turn golden and cheese gets all melty and irresistible.

  • Serve And Enjoy

Let the sliders rest briefly, then slice and serve while warm. Get ready for flavor explosions!

Topping Ideas for Hot Italian Sub Slider Fans

  • Assemble sliders up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking, perfect for stress-free entertaining.
  • Swap Hawaiian rolls for gluten-free dinner rolls or lettuce wraps to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Replace meat with grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted eggplant, and plant-based cheese for a delicious meatless version.
  • Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat lovers, or keep it mild for sensitive palates by reducing spicy pepper amounts.

Serve Sliders for Parties or Game Night

  • Party Platter Perfection: Arrange sliders on a large wooden board with fresh herbs scattered around for a stunning presentation.
  • Dipping Delights: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy aioli on the side for extra flavor exploration.
  • Game Day Companion: Pair with crisp pickle spears, kettle chips, or a simple side salad to create a complete and satisfying meal spread.
  • Picnic Ready: Wrap individually in parchment paper for easy transport and outdoor dining, making these sliders perfect for casual gatherings and potlucks.

Keep Italian Sub Sliders Warm and Tasty

  • Store leftover sliders in an airtight container inside the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them sealed to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss.
  • Warm sliders in the oven at 350F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispy edges and melty cheese. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy bread texture.
  • Assemble sliders up to 24 hours before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Remove from fridge 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even temperature distribution.
  • Wrap individual sliders in aluminum foil, then place in freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in refrigerator and reheat in oven until warmed through.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 480 kcal

Servings: 12

Ingredient Guide for Hot Italian Sub Sliders

For Bread Base:
  • Hawaiian Rolls: Soft, sweet base that provides the perfect vessel for layering zesty meats and creamy cheese.
For Protein and Cheese Layer:
  • Salami, Pepperoni, Ham: Each meat brings a unique, bold flavor profile that creates a robust and satisfying sandwich experience.
  • Provolone Cheese: Creamy, mild cheese that melts beautifully and binds ingredients together with its smooth texture.
For Flavor Enhancers and Moisture:
  • Mayonnaise: Adds creamy richness and helps bind ingredients smoothly.
  • Italian Dressing: Introduces tangy, herbal notes that elevate the overall taste.
  • Roasted Red Peppers: Brings sweet, smoky undertones and vibrant color.
  • Banana Peppers: Contributes a zesty, pickled kick that cuts through the richness.
  • Italian Seasoning: Blends aromatic herbs that intensify the Mediterranean-inspired flavor.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds depth and warmth without overwhelming other ingredients.
For Topping and Finishing:
  • Butter: Creates a golden, crispy exterior and adds luxurious richness.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkled on top for a savory, nutty finish that elevates the slider's profile.
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cheesy Italian Sub Sliders Recipe

Cheesy Italian Sub Sliders Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Hearty hot Italian sub sliders pack a punch of Mediterranean flavor with layers of savory salami, pepperoni, and melted provolone nestled in soft dinner rolls. Perfectly seasoned and baked until golden, these mini sandwiches promise a delightful bite you’ll crave at game day gatherings or casual weekend get-togethers.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 Hawaiian rolls (or slider buns)
  • 6 slices ham (or turkey)
  • 6 slices pepperoni
  • 6 slices salami
  • 6 slices provolone cheese
  • ½ cup roasted red peppers, drained and sliced
  • ½ cup banana peppers, drained
  • 4 tbsps butter, melted
  • ¼ cup Italian dressing
  • ¼ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Oven Preparation: Calibrate the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly coat a 9×13 baking vessel with a non-stick spray.
  2. Roll Preparation: Carefully bisect Hawaiian rolls horizontally while maintaining their structural integrity, positioning the bottom layer within the prepared baking dish.
  3. Flavor Foundation: Whisk mayonnaise and Italian dressing into a harmonious blend, then meticulously distribute across the roll’s lower surface.
  4. Protein and Cheese Assembly: Strategically layer salami, pepperoni, ham, and provolone cheese, creating a robust flavor profile. Incorporate roasted red peppers and banana peppers for heightened complexity, then dust with Italian seasoning.
  5. Topping and Butter Enhancement: Crown the layered ingredients with roll tops. Merge melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese into a luxurious glaze, generously brushing over the slider surface.
  6. Baking Process: Shield the dish with aluminum foil, bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and continue baking 5-7 minutes until the surface achieves a golden-brown hue and cheese reaches a molten state.
  7. Serving Technique: Allow brief cooling, then segment and present these warm, flavor-packed sliders for immediate enjoyment.

Notes

  • Swap meats based on personal preference or dietary needs – turkey or chicken can replace traditional pork-based proteins.
  • Pat roasted red peppers and banana peppers dry before adding to prevent soggy slider bottoms.
  • Use room temperature cheese for more even melting and better overall texture.
  • Add a pinch of dried parsley or red pepper flakes to the butter blend for extra depth of flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 800 mg
  • Fat: 16 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
William Hawkins

William Hawkins

Founder & Culinary Director

Expertise

  • Modern American and Southern Cuisine
  • Farm-to-Table Practices
  • Restaurant Concept Development
  • Culinary Education and Mentorship​

Education

Sullivan University, Louisville, KY

  • Degree: Associate of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on mastering culinary methods and food science, immersive externships, hands‑on training in industry‑standard kitchen labs, and equipping graduates for roles in restaurant operations.

William Hawkins isn’t just a chef, he’s a storyteller through food. From his hometown of Louisville, KY, he’s spent years refining his craft, turning local ingredients into something extraordinary. 

With classical training from Sullivan University and a career marked by innovation, mentorship, and Southern soul, William approaches every recipe with purpose. His kitchen is where old techniques meet fresh ideas, and where comfort food gets a thoughtful, modern twist. 

When he’s not building dishes from the ground up, he’s out gathering inspiration from nature, markets, and the stories people share around the table.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star