These Chopped Italian Sliders are mini sandwiches packed with tasty flavors. With layers of salami, pepperoni, and cheese, they’re like little flavor bombs for your taste buds!
Perfect for parties or game day, they disappear fast. I can’t help but smile when I see a platter of these cute sliders—they’re just so fun to eat! 🥳
Whenever I make them, I love adding a bit of spicy mustard for an extra kick. They’re super easy to whip up and always a hit with friends and family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft slider buns are perfect for this recipe because they hold everything together well. If you can’t find slider buns, you could use small dinner rolls or even mini bagels. Just ensure they’re soft enough to bite into!
Shredded Beef: This recipe shines with Italian-style shredded beef, like pot roast. If you want a quicker option, deli meats like sliced roast beef work nicely too. For a vegetarian alternative, consider using mushrooms or jackfruit seasoned like beef for a delicious twist.
Marinara Sauce: You can use store-bought marinara, but homemade is always great if you have the time. If you don’t have marinara, any tomato sauce will do! For a bolder flavor, try a roasted garlic or spicy marinara.
Provolone Cheese: Provolone really complements the Italian flavors. However, you can substitute with mozzarella for a milder taste or even pepper jack for a spicy kick!
How Do You Make Perfectly Layered Sliders?
Layering is key to getting the best flavor in your sliders. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a sturdy base: Slice the buns equally to avoid spilling. Make sure to use a sharp knife to get a clean cut.
- Spread the filling evenly: Distribute the shredded beef and marinara mixture over the buns evenly. This ensures every bite has the same delicious flavor.
- Cheese placement: Always layer cheese on top of the filling but under the top bun. This helps it melt beautifully and hold everything together.
- Butter it up: Brushing melted butter on top before baking adds flavor and achieves a nice golden finish. Don’t skip this step!
With a little patience and attention to layering, you’ll create sliders that are not only tasty but also visually appealing!
Chopped Italian Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sliders:
- 12 soft slider buns or dinner rolls
- 1 1/2 cups cooked and shredded Italian-style beef (like slow-cooked pot roast or shredded beef brisket)
- 1 cup marinara or chunky tomato sauce
- 6 slices provolone cheese, cut in half
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Optional: 1 tbsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe should take about 10-15 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes to bake. In just about 35-40 minutes, you’ll have mouthwatering Italian sliders ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your sliders will cook evenly and the cheese will melt beautifully.
2. Prepare the Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in a baking dish or on a baking sheet so they’re ready for the delicious filling.
3. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded Italian beef with the marinara sauce. Stir until the beef is evenly coated with the sauce. This mix is the heart of your sliders!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Spoon the beef and sauce mixture generously over each bottom bun. Make sure to distribute it evenly for the best flavor in every bite. Then, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the beef mixture.
5. Add the Cheese:
Take a half slice of provolone cheese and place it on top of the beef mixture on each slider. The melty cheese will bring everything together.
6. Cap It Off:
Now, add the top halves of the buns over your sliders, covering the delicious fillings snugly.
7. Butter the Tops:
Brush the melted butter over the tops of the buns. For an extra touch of flavor, consider sprinkling some Italian seasoning or dried oregano on top!
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil to help keep the moisture in. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, and the sliders are nice and warm.
9. Finish & Serve:
Once they’re done, take the sliders out of the oven and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful Chopped Italian Sliders!
These sliders are a fantastic combo of tender beef, savory marinara, and gooey cheese all nestled in soft buns. They make for an ideal party treat or a hearty snack that everyone’s sure to love!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe works great with Italian-style shredded beef, you can also use shredded chicken, turkey, or even a meat substitute like mushrooms or jackfruit for a vegetarian version.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No problem! You can substitute marinara with any tomato sauce, or even a flavored pasta sauce for a different twist. For a spicier kick, try using arrabbiata sauce instead!
Can I Make These Sliders in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the sliders up to the baking step and refrigerate them covered for a few hours or overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in cold.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.