Name: Crowd-Pleasing, Quick Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489311H59M2S
Total time: PT-489311H59M2S
Cuisine: Americans
Ingredients: • 12 small slider buns or dinner rolls, split in half horizontally• 1/2 cup finely chopped pepperoni• 1/2 cup finely chopped roasted red bell peppers• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese• 1/4 cup Italian dressing, plus more for drizzling• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Prepare to be the talk of the party with these irresistible Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders! This recipe is a masterful blend of savory flavors, satisfying textures, and unbeatable convenience. Get ready to wow your guests with a dish that’s as quick to prepare as it is impossible to resist.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a pillowy-soft slider bun, only to be met with a burst of bold Italian flavors. The combination of zesty pepperoni, tangy peppers, and creamy provolone cheese creates a taste sensation that will have your guests reaching for seconds (and thirds!). And the best part? This recipe comes together in a flash, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

So, what are you waiting for? Let’s dive into the secret behind this crowd-pleasing, quick Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders recipe!

✨ The Secret Behind This Irresistible Dish

The key to these Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders lies in the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of savory meats, tangy cheese, and crunchy vegetables creates a symphony of taste and mouthfeel that is simply impossible to resist.

But what sets this recipe apart is the unique way the ingredients are chopped and layered. By finely dicing the pepperoni, bell peppers, and onions, we create a filling that is evenly distributed throughout the slider buns. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, from the first to the last. And the addition of a zesty Italian dressing ties all the components together, delivering a burst of brightness and acidity that keeps you coming back for more.

🌿 Gathering Your High-Quality Components

• 12 small slider buns or dinner rolls, split in half horizontally
• 1/2 cup finely chopped pepperoni
• 1/2 cup finely chopped roasted red bell peppers
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1/4 cup Italian dressing, plus more for drizzling
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

The key to this recipe’s success lies in the high-quality ingredients. Opt for a robust, flavorful pepperoni that can stand up to the other bold flavors. The roasted red bell peppers add a sweet and smoky depth, while the red onion provides a welcome crunch and sharpness. And the provolone cheese? It’s the perfect melty, gooey complement to the savory fillings.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, to find your personal preference. And feel free to adjust the seasoning blend to suit your taste buds – a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can lend a delightful kick of heat.

🍳 From Prep to Plate: A Detailed Walkthrough

Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped pepperoni, roasted red bell peppers, and red onion. Add the Italian dressing, dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed and coated with the dressing.
Assemble the Sliders: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bottom halves of the slider buns on a large baking sheet. Spoon the chopped Italian filling onto the buns, distributing it evenly. Top with the shredded provolone cheese. Place the top halves of the buns on the sliders.
Bake the Sliders: Bake the assembled sliders in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbrowning.
Finish and Serve: Remove the sliders from the oven and drizzle a bit of additional Italian dressing over the top, if desired. Serve the Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders warm, garnished with any extra chopped herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese, if you like.

⏱️ Timing Overview

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 27-30 minutes

👩‍⚕️ A Quick Look at the Nutrition Facts

Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g

🌱 Recipe Adaptations for Every Diet

• For a Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free slider buns or dinner rolls. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly to account for the different texture of the gluten-free bread.
• To Make it Vegan: Swap the pepperoni for a plant-based “pepperoni” alternative, and use a dairy-free cheese like shredded vegan mozzarella or provolone. You can also omit the cheese altogether and add extra vegetables, like sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes, to the filling.
• To Add a Spicy Kick: Stir in a tablespoon or two of your favorite hot sauce, like Frank’s RedHot or Cholula, into the Italian filling. You can also top the sliders with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an extra pop of heat.

🥂 Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions

• Main Course Pairing: Serve these Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders alongside a crisp, fresh salad or a bowl of creamy tomato soup for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Garnish Suggestions: Garnish the sliders with a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and a few shavings of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
• Beverage Pairing: These sliders pair wonderfully with a cold, crisp lager or a glass of robust red wine, like a Chianti or Sangiovese. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing Italian soda or iced tea would also be a delightful accompaniment.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake 1 – Overcrowding the Pan: Avoid packing the sliders too closely together on the baking sheet. This can lead to steaming instead of the desired searing and browning of the buns. Be sure to leave a bit of space between each slider for even cooking.
• Mistake 2 – Using Cold Ingredients: Bring all the ingredients, especially the cheese, to room temperature before assembling the sliders. This will help the cheese melt evenly and create a gooey, melty texture.
• Mistake 3 – Not Preheating the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to the correct temperature before baking the sliders. This will ensure the buns rise properly and the cheese melts smoothly.

📦 How to Keep Your Leftovers Fresh ?

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: These sliders can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap each slider individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the frozen or refrigerated sliders on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

❓ FAQs

Can I make the filling in advance?

Absolutely! The Italian filling can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembly a breeze when you’re ready to bake the sliders. Just be sure to give the filling a good stir before spooning it onto the buns.

How can I make these sliders extra cheesy?

For an extra-cheesy version, try adding a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese or crumbled feta on top of the Italian filling before topping with the provolone. You can also experiment with different cheese blends, like a combination of cheddar and Parmesan, to create your own signature flavor profile.

Can I use pre-made slider buns?

Absolutely! To save time, you can use pre-made slider buns or dinner rolls instead of making your own. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as pre-made buns may have a different texture and cook more quickly.

How can I make these sliders ahead of time for a party?

These Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders are perfect for making ahead of time for a party or gathering. Assemble the sliders up to 8 hours in advance, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake the sliders as directed, adjusting the baking time as needed to ensure they’re hot and melty.

Can I customize the fillings to my liking?

Yes, these sliders are highly customizable! Feel free to experiment with different types of cured meats, such as salami or capicola, or swap in your favorite Italian-style vegetables, like roasted mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes. The key is to keep the ingredients finely chopped to ensure an even distribution in each bite.

🥳 Wrapping It Up

These Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing, quick-to-prepare dish that will have your guests raving. With their irresistible flavors, satisfying textures, and endless customization possibilities, these sliders are sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to wow your loved ones with this delectable recipe. Buon appetito!

For an extra special touch, consider serving these Chopped Italian Sandwich Sliders on a large platter, garnished with fresh basil leaves, shaved Parmesan, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It’s a visually stunning presentation that will make your guests feel like they’re dining at a gourmet Italian bistro – right in the comfort of your own home.