Chopped Italian Sliders

The Chopped Italian Sliders are a handheld masterpiece layers of warm, savory deli meats and gooey provolone cheese tucked inside golden toasted Hawaiian rolls. What takes them over the top is a zesty chopped salad of lettuce, pickles, banana peppers, and creamy dressing, giving every bite a cool crunch and tangy flavor explosion.

Perfect for game day, family dinners, or summer gatherings, these sliders come together quickly and offer a ton of flavor with minimal fuss. They’re wildly satisfying and endlessly customizable, whether you keep it classic or add your own twist. These are not your average sandwiches – they’re a next-level eating experience.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Meat Layer:

• 4 oz deli sliced ham

• 4 oz deli sliced salami

• 4 oz deli sliced pepperoni

• 4–6 oz smoked provolone cheese, sliced

For the Bread:

• 1 package (12-count) King’s Hawaiian Savory Butter Rolls

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tbsp dried Italian seasoning

For the Salad Topping:

• 8 oz shredded lettuce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup red onion, diced

• 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped

• 1/2 cup pickled banana peppers, chopped

• 3 tbsp Beano Submarine Dressing (or 2 tbsp olive oil + 2 tsp red wine vinegar + 1 tsp Italian seasoning)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in an oven-safe tray or 9×13 baking dish. Spread a few tablespoons of mayo over the bottom layer.

3. Bake for 7–10 minutes until golden brown.

4. While toasting, chop all deli meats and heat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

5. In a bowl, mix shredded lettuce, mayo, red onion, pickles, banana peppers, and submarine dressing (or the substitution). Set aside.

6. Once bottom buns are toasted, layer provolone cheese and heated meat evenly across.

7. Top with the other half of the rolls.

8. Mix melted butter and Italian seasoning and brush over the top rolls. Bake again for 5–7 minutes.

9. Carefully remove the top buns, add the chopped salad topping over the meat, then replace the top buns.

10. Slice and serve immediately!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: ~415 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings

Why Chopped Italian Sliders Are Taking Over the Internet – And Your Next Potluck

In the world of comfort food, there’s something undeniably satisfying about handheld, bite-sized sandwiches that pack a punch of flavor. Enter the Chopped Italian Sliders an irresistible mashup of classic Italian sub ingredients, melty cheese, and toasted Hawaiian rolls. These small but mighty sandwiches are more than just a recipe; they’ve become a movement, making waves across TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, and potluck tables around the country.

So, what makes this dish so wildly popular? Why have millions of people recreated it in their own kitchens, with raving reviews from families, party guests, and even self-proclaimed picky eaters?

Let’s break it down and explore why these sliders are the ultimate game day snack, potluck star, and dinner-time lifesaver.

The Rise of the Chopped Sandwich Trend

Before we can talk sliders, we need to acknowledge the chopped sandwich phenomenon. What began as a fun, satisfying way to prepare deli sandwiches on TikTok has quickly evolved into a viral food trend. The idea is simple: take all your favorite sandwich ingredients meats, cheeses, veggies, sauces and chop them into a cohesive, easy-to-eat salad-like mix. It’s messy, indulgent, and somehow, more than the sum of its parts.

These chopped sandwiches bring the flavor and texture of a hoagie but in a less structured, more shareable way. Naturally, that format begged for further evolution and that’s where sliders came in.

A Perfect Fusion: Classic Italian Meets Hawaiian Comfort

Chopped Italian Sliders merge traditional Italian deli flavors with the pillowy, slightly sweet bite of King’s Hawaiian Rolls, a staple in many kitchens for their unique texture and taste. This fusion of bold, savory meats and creamy, crunchy salad toppings wrapped in buttery baked rolls is nothing short of genius.

What makes these sliders stand out is the contrast of textures and temperatures. You’ve got warm, melted provolone cheese draping over salty cured meats, hugged by toasty bread that’s crisp on the outside but soft inside. Then, just when you think it’s a standard slider, you hit the cool crunch of the chopped lettuce mix tangy pickles, banana peppers, and creamy dressing included. It’s the kind of bite that’s both familiar and surprising all at once.

The Viral Appeal

There’s a reason this recipe has garnered over 40 million views on social media platforms. It’s got that magic combination of:

• Simplicity – It doesn’t require fancy tools, cooking skills, or complicated prep.

• Customization – You can easily swap ingredients to cater to your preferences.

• Visual ASMR – The chopping, mixing, layering, and slicing all make for satisfying video content.

• Big flavor payoff – Every layer adds dimension. It’s craveable, rich, and fulfilling.

Additionally, because sliders are naturally portioned, they make ideal party food. You can feed a crowd with minimal effort, and the clean-up is a breeze.

Ideal for Every Occasion

One of the best parts of this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re throwing a Super Bowl party, preparing food for a school function, or just need a fun twist on sandwich night, Chopped Italian Sliders fit the bill. Here’s how they shine in different scenarios:

Game Day:

Sliders are perfect finger food. These are hearty enough to satisfy hungry football fans but can be eaten standing up with a beer in one hand.

Family Dinner:

Sometimes dinner needs to be low-effort but high-impact. This dish comes together fast but feels indulgent and special.

Potluck or Picnic:

They travel well (just keep the salad mix on the side until ready to serve), and they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Weeknight Treat:

Busy week? These sliders are your answer to “what’s for dinner?” They take less than 30 minutes from prep to plate and will make everyone at the table happy.

Customization Tips and Variations

If you’re worried about picky eaters or dietary preferences, don’t sweat it—this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Here are some easy modifications:

Swap the Meats:

• Use turkey or chicken breast for a lighter version.

• Go spicy with hot capicola or soppressata.

• Vegetarian? Sub in roasted peppers, marinated mushrooms, and mozzarella.

Change the Cheese:

• Provolone is classic, but mozzarella, Swiss, cheddar, or even pepper jack will work.

• Vegan cheese can be used for plant-based diets.

Alter the Salad Topping:

• Don’t like onions? Leave them out.

• Love olives? Add some chopped kalamata or black olives.

• Prefer spice? Use hot banana peppers or jalapeños.

Bread Alternatives:

While King’s Hawaiian Rolls are the star here for their sweetness and softness, other options include:

• Brioche slider buns

• Mini ciabatta rolls

• Dinner rolls

Just be sure the bread you choose can hold up to the moisture of the fillings without going soggy too quickly.

Pro Tips for Serving and Storage

While the ingredients are straightforward, there are a few helpful tips that can elevate your slider game:

• Toast the bottom buns first. This adds a layer of protection against sogginess once the salad is added.

• Wait to add the salad topping until the last minute. This keeps the texture crisp and vibrant.

• Use the provided baking tray or a 9×13 pan to help with stability and prevent a mess during slicing.

• Let them rest for a couple of minutes after baking before slicing. This allows the cheese to settle and makes the sliders easier to cut cleanly.

Storage Note: These sliders are best eaten fresh. If you do have leftovers, store them without the salad topping and reheat in the oven to crisp up the bread again. The salad can be stored separately for up to a day.

A Modern Classic with Old-School Roots

At their core, Chopped Italian Sliders are a nostalgic nod to classic Italian sub sandwiches the kind you’d get from a neighborhood deli, loaded with salty meats, tangy toppings, and layers of flavor. But the viral twist chopping, layering, baking, and reassembling brings a freshness and modern appeal that’s hard to beat.

It’s comfort food reimagined for busy home cooks and content creators alike. The recipe delivers both substance and style, with enough flexibility to suit different palates, diets, and occasions.

Conclusion: 

Chopped Italian Sliders are more than just a quick meal they’re an experience. Every bite tells a story: one of bold flavors, satisfying crunch, and the kind of culinary creativity that brings joy to both the cook and the crowd. Whether you’re feeding a crew, making lunch more exciting, or jumping on the next food trend, this recipe delivers.

They’ve become a favorite in households across the country for good reason: they’re easy, adaptable, and absolutely unforgettable.

So next time you’re looking for a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and show-stopper, give Chopped Italian Sliders a try. Your taste buds and your dinner guests will thank you.