These Italian Sub Sliders are the ultimate bite-sized sandwiches for any occasion. Perfectly stacked with deli meats, melted provolone cheese, and topped with a tangy dressing, these sliders offer a burst of flavor in every bite. They’re simple yet impressive, making them an excellent choice for parties, gatherings, or even a cozy family dinner.
The combination of Italian meats, fresh veggies, and melted cheese creates a satisfying and hearty sandwich. With the added zing of Dijon mustard and Italian dressing, these sliders are far from ordinary. They are the perfect fusion of convenience and taste, and their soft, pillowy texture is sure to make them a crowd favorite at any event.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 slider rolls
- 1/2 pound deli sliced salami
- 1/2 pound deli sliced pepperoni
- 1/2 pound deli sliced ham
- 1/2 cup provolone cheese slices
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons Italian dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped red onions
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped banana peppers
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the slider rolls in half and lay the bottom halves in a baking dish.
- Layer the deli meats (salami, pepperoni, ham) evenly on the bottom half of the rolls.
- Top the meats with provolone cheese slices.
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Italian dressing. Spread this mixture evenly over the cheese.
- Add the red onions, green bell peppers, and banana peppers on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle the oregano, salt, and pepper evenly over the toppings.
- Place the top halves of the rolls on and brush the tops with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sliders are golden brown and the cheese has melted.
- Slice and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 sliders
Origin and History:
The Italian sub, also known as an Italian hoagie or sub sandwich, has its roots in the northeastern United States, particularly in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and parts of New Jersey. It was inspired by the classic Italian sandwich, known as “panino,” filled with a variety of Italian deli meats and cheeses. Over time, the Italian sub evolved into a favorite sandwich in American cuisine, typically featuring ingredients like salami, pepperoni, ham, provolone cheese, and a combination of tangy toppings such as olives, onions, and peppers. These sliders offer a more bite-sized, shareable version of this classic sandwich, making them perfect for gatherings and parties.
Serving Suggestions:
Italian Sub Sliders are great as appetizers or as a main dish, especially for casual meals or gatherings. Serve them alongside a fresh salad, like a classic Caesar salad, or a side of crispy baked fries for a complete meal. You can also offer a dipping sauce like marinara or ranch dressing on the side for added flavor.
Variations and Tips:
- Customizing the Meats: While this recipe features salami, pepperoni, and ham, you can easily customize it to include other Italian deli meats like capicola, mortadella, or even turkey for a leaner option.
- Adding Veggies: Enhance the flavor and crunch with additional vegetables such as sliced tomatoes, lettuce, or olives. For a more Mediterranean twist, you can add artichoke hearts or roasted red peppers.
- Vegan Version: For a plant-based alternative, you can swap the deli meats with vegetarian-friendly options like marinated tofu, tempeh, or even chickpea salad. Use vegan cheese to keep the dish dairy-free.
- Grilling Option: If you prefer a crispy, grilled version, after assembling the sliders, wrap them in foil and bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or grill them lightly to crisp up the buns.
Why You’ll Love These Italian Sub Sliders:
These Italian Sub Sliders are the perfect combination of convenience and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, a game night, or just looking for an easy weeknight meal, these sliders are sure to satisfy everyone. They offer all the delicious components of a classic Italian sub sandwich, but in a much easier-to-eat, bite-sized format. The sliders’ soft, pillowy bread perfectly complements the savory deli meats, gooey melted provolone, and tangy dressing, making every bite absolutely irresistible. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and can be made ahead, so you can focus on enjoying your time with family and friends!
Perfect for Any Occasion:
Italian Sub Sliders are versatile enough to be served at a variety of events. Here are some ideas on when to make them:
- Game Day: These sliders are perfect finger food for any sports event. They’re easy to grab and enjoy while watching the game, and their satisfying flavor will keep your guests coming back for more.
- Family Gatherings: Whether it’s a weekend lunch or a family dinner, these sliders are an excellent choice for feeding a crowd. Their small size makes them perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Picnics and Potlucks: Because they’re portable and easy to serve, these sliders are ideal for any outdoor event. Pack them up for a picnic or bring them to your next potluck gathering for a guaranteed hit.
- Holiday Parties: Make these sliders your go-to holiday party appetizer. With their cheesy, savory goodness, they will quickly become the star of the spread.
Why This Recipe Works:
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Cheese That Melts Perfectly: Provolone cheese is the star of this recipe, adding creaminess and a mild tang that perfectly complements the bold flavors of the Italian meats. The cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, satisfying layer that binds everything together.
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Savory Dressing: The combination of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and Italian dressing adds a zesty kick and a creamy texture that elevates the flavor profile of the sandwich. The dressing also helps to moisten the bread without making it soggy.
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Loaded with Flavor: The mix of salami, pepperoni, and ham brings a rich, meaty texture to each slider. Meanwhile, the addition of crunchy veggies like bell peppers, banana peppers, and red onions gives the sliders a fresh, crisp bite that balances out the richness of the meats and cheese.
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Easy and Quick: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The sliders are baked in the oven, which helps all the flavors meld together, while the bread crisps up nicely, making each slider golden and delicious.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
If you have leftovers, Italian Sub Sliders can be stored easily for later enjoyment. Here’s how:
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Refrigeration: Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their fresh texture.
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Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch for future meals, freeze the sliders (before baking) by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Nutritional Information:
While Italian Sub Sliders are delicious, they are also packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s a rough breakdown of their nutritional profile:
- Calories: 320 kcal per slider (based on 12 servings)
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion:
Italian Sub Sliders are a delicious, easy-to-make twist on the classic Italian sub sandwich. With savory deli meats, melted provolone cheese, and a zesty dressing, these sliders are perfect for any occasion—from game day to family dinners. They’re quick to prepare, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they store and reheat well, making them great for meal prep or leftovers. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a satisfying snack, these sliders will hit the spot every time.