These Italian Grinder Sliders are tasty little sandwiches packed with Italian meats, cheese, and zesty toppings, all on a fluffy bun. Perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
They’re so good that you might want to make extra—trust me, they disappear fast! I love serving them with a side salad for a simple and fun meal. Enjoy the bites!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: For this recipe, small sandwich rolls or slider buns are best. If you can’t find them, try using cut-up hoagie rolls or soft dinner rolls. I love using whole wheat options for a healthier touch!
Meats: Deli ham and salami give great flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey or chicken breast can work. For a vegetarian version, swap in roasted vegetables or marinated tofu.
Provolone Cheese: It’s creamy and flavorful, the star of the sliders! If you’re out of provolone, mozzarella or gouda are good substitutes. Aim for a cheese that melts well!
Marinara Sauce: This adds moisture and flavor. If you don’t have marinara, any tomato sauce or even pesto can work as a spread for a different twist.
Seasoning: Italian seasoning and garlic powder are key to bringing this dish to life. If you don’t have them, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano, but adjust the amount as they can be stronger.
How Do I Get Toasty, Golden Brown Sliders?
Getting that nice, toasty top on your sliders is all about your baking technique! Proper brushing and using aluminum foil help here. Here’s how to ensure your buns get golden brown:
- Brush the tops and edges of buns with olive oil or melted butter thoroughly. This helps them brown and adds flavor.
- After placing them in the oven, cover slightly with foil to trap steam initially, preventing them from drying out.
- After the first 10 minutes, remove the foil for the last few minutes. This will allow the tops to crisp up nicely!
Don’t rush this step—it’s worth it for that delicious texture!
How to Make Italian Grinder Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns or small sandwich rolls
- 12 slices of deli ham
- 12 slices of salami
- 12 slices of provolone cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce, warmed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
For Brushing:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- Balsamic glaze or reduction for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 20-25 minutes to prepare and bake. It includes about 10 minutes for prep and another 10-15 minutes for baking, so you’ll have delicious sliders ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it will be hot and ready when your sliders are assembled!
2. Prepare the Buns:
Carefully slice the slider buns horizontally, making sure to leave a hinge if you’d like to keep them connected. This makes for easier serving!
3. Layer the Ingredients:
Place the bottom halves of the buns on a baking sheet. Start layering by placing a slice of ham on each bun, followed by a slice of salami. Then, add a slice of provolone cheese to finish off the first layers.
4. Add Sauces and Cheese:
Spread about 1 tablespoon of warmed marinara sauce on top of the cheese for each slider. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly all over the marinara. It’s going to be cheesy goodness!
5. Season the Sliders:
Add a pinch of Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the cheese for some extra flavor. Don’t forget to season with a touch of salt and pepper to taste!
6. Close the Sliders:
Place the top halves of the slider buns on each sandwich, pressing them down gently.
7. Brush with Oil:
Lightly brush the tops and edges of the buns with olive oil or melted butter for a golden glaze once baked.
8. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil to keep them moist and bake in your preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is fully melted and everything is heated through.
9. Add Fresh Lettuce:
Once out of the oven, carefully remove the foil and add a handful of shredded lettuce inside each slider for a nice crunch.
10. Drizzle and Serve:
If you like, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the lettuce for an extra burst of flavor. Serve these sliders warm and enjoy every bite of your Italian Grinder Sliders!
Can I Use Different Meats in the Sliders?
Absolutely! While deli ham and salami are traditional, feel free to substitute with turkey, roast beef, or even a vegetarian option like roasted peppers or grilled eggplant for a delicious twist.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the sliders and cover them tightly. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven as directed.
What’s the Best Side to Serve with Italian Grinder Sliders?
These sliders pair well with various sides! Consider serving them with a fresh green salad, crispy potato wedges, or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
