Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Hot Italian Sub Sliders are the definition of crowd-pleasing comfort food layered with savory Italian meats melty cheese and tangy peppers all tucked inside soft rolls. These come together in a snap and are baked golden and warm — no one can resist them fresh from the oven. I love making these for game day or casual gatherings because they vanish fast and you always end up with happy bellies.

The first time I made these my friends could not stop raving — now it is the go-to snack at every football get-together.

Ingredients

• Twelve pack soft slider rolls: Choose a fluffy sweet roll like Kings Hawaiian for the ultimate texture
• Six ounces thinly sliced ham: Go for a deli ham with good fat marbling for the most flavor
• Five ounces thinly sliced salami: A high-quality Italian salami adds that signature sub punch
• Five ounces thinly sliced pepperoni: Opt for sandwich size which gives big flavor without overpowering
• Nine slices provolone cheese: Always pick a creamy whole milk provolone for great melt and mild taste
• One third cup sliced pepperoncini: Bright and tangy these cut the richness of the meats
• One third cup sliced pickled hot cherry peppers: Look for vibrant red peppers for a spicy kick
• One quarter cup melted salted butter: Always use real butter for a rich toasty finish
• One teaspoon Italian seasoning: You want a blend with oregano basil and thyme for classic flavor
• Two cloves crushed garlic: Choose fresh cloves and crush yourself for the boldest taste
• One cup marinara sauce optional: A thick flavorful marinara is perfect for dipping warm sliders

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rolls:

Slice the package of rolls in half horizontally so you have a top and bottom slab. Place the bottom piece cut side up on a baking pan.

Create the Sandwich Layers:

First add an even layer of ham followed by salami and then pepperoni. Drape the provolone slices evenly to cover the meats. Sprinkle on a generous scattering of the sliced hot cherry peppers and pepperoncini for bursts of heat and tang.

Add the Top Rolls:

Carefully place the top half of the rolls back on pressing gently to nest the fillings inside without squishing.

Make the Garlic Butter:

Mix melted butter with Italian seasoning and freshly crushed garlic. Stir until everything is well incorporated ensuring the seasonings are evenly dispersed.

Brush and Bake:

Generously brush the seasoned butter over the tops of the rolls making sure every crevice is coated. Cover the tray tightly with foil to help the cheese melt and flavors meld then bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for thirty minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is gooey.

Serve and Slice:

Remove from the oven and use a sharp knife to separate into individual sliders. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Save

Provolone cheese is always my must-have in these sliders because of how perfectly it melts and the gentle sharpness it brings. My sister and I used to compete to see who got the cheesiest bite it is still our favorite part when we make these together for family movie nights.

Storage Tips

Leftover sliders can be wrapped in foil and kept refrigerated for up to three days. Rewarm in a medium oven wrapped in foil to keep them soft or give them a quick blast in a sandwich press for extra crisp edges. You can also freeze assembled unbaked sliders as a make-ahead freezer meal simply thaw and bake as needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap the meats for turkey roast beef or even roasted veggies for a vegetarian version. Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack in place of provolone for a milder twist. If you cannot find hot cherry peppers sweet red bell peppers with a splash of red wine vinegar work well too.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are at home as the main event for a party but also make a stellar lunch alongside a simple salad or bowl of soup. For a true pizzeria vibe pair them with crisp potato chips and icy sodas. Warm marinara or Italian dressing for dipping is a must at our house.

Cultural and Historical Context

Inspired by classic Italian American submarine sandwiches these sliders pack in all the deli flavors without the mess of overstuffed bread. Italians in America popularized the sub sandwich in the early twentieth century and this baked version keeps all the tradition with a fun twist for sharing.

Recipe FAQs

→ What rolls work best for these sliders?

Sweet Hawaiian rolls are perfect for this dish, as their soft and slightly sweet texture pairs deliciously with the savory fillings.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

You can assemble the sliders a few hours in advance; just add the seasoned butter before baking to keep the bread from getting soggy.

→ Are there alternative meats I can use?

Feel free to swap in turkey, roast beef, or capicola if desired, adjusting the combination to your taste preferences.

→ How should I slice the sliders for serving?

Use a sharp knife to slice between each roll after baking, ensuring each slider holds together with plenty of filling.

→ What side sauces pair well with these?

Marinara sauce is a classic dip, but you can also serve with ranch, creamy Italian, or spicy mustard for variety.