Irresistible Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Party : A Game Day Hit

Posted on November 19, 2025 ·

By Lyndy

pepperoni and cheese pizza sliders with text overlay

Whether you’re planning a festive gathering, game day bash, or casual weekend hangout, these Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Party are guaranteed to disappear fast. With soft Hawaiian rolls, gooey melted cheese, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni, these mini pizza sliders are a flavor-packed, easy-to-make appetizer everyone will love.

Perfect for football parties, birthdays, holidays, and even kid-friendly dinners, these sliders are a fun twist on classic pizza. If you’re searching for Superbowl appetizers or football party food that’s simple, crowd-pleasing, and can be made ahead, look no further.

Pair these sliders with a platter of cheesy mashed potato puffs or a cucumber dill salad and you’ve got a perfect party spread.

What Are Pepperoni Pizza Sliders?

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are bite-sized sandwiches made by layering pizza ingredients like sauce, cheese, and pepperoni between soft rolls, typically baked together in a pan. Unlike traditional pizza, the pull-apart slider format makes them perfect for sharing.

Think of them as the ideal blend of Pizza Sliders Pepperoni and mini sandwiches—simple enough for a casual night in, yet festive enough for events like Super Bowl Sunday. They’re also incredibly easy to customize, making them a go-to for busy hosts.

If you’re a fan of pizza mashups, you might also love a baked twist like the Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Casserole—another great party alternative!

Ingredients for Mini Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious Mini Pepperoni Pizza Sliders. Most ingredients are pantry staples, which makes this recipe super convenient.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pack (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 package (6 oz) sliced pepperoni
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or black olives for topping

These ingredients combine all the best parts of pizza in a compact, mess-free bite. Want a vegetarian version? Swap pepperoni with sliced mushrooms or peppers for a twist.

How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Party – Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Using a serrated knife, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating the individual rolls. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.

Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce evenly over the bottom layer of rolls. Sprinkle half the mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Layer pepperoni slices evenly across, then add the remaining mozzarella.

Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese and pepperoni to form sandwiches.

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan.

Cover with foil and bake for 10–12 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

You won’t need much, which is why this recipe is ideal for quick prep and easy cleanup:

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Serrated bread knife
  • Basting brush for butter topping
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Spatula or serving knife

For parties where you’re multitasking in the kitchen, simplicity is key. These tools also work great for baking other party favorites like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or Puff Pastry Bats.

Tips for the Best Pizza Sliders Every Time

Here are some handy tips to make sure your Pizza Sliders Pepperoni come out perfect every time:

  • Use a sharp serrated knife to slice the rolls evenly
  • Don’t over-sauce; it may cause soggy bottoms
  • Cover with foil first to melt the cheese, then uncover to crisp the tops
  • Add crushed red pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick
  • Fresh basil on top adds color and flavor

Sliders are forgiving, so they’re great even for beginner cooks. Like our Crescent Roll Mummy Hot Dogs, they’re designed to be fun and fuss-free.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pizza Sliders Pepperoni

While this recipe is super simple, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

  • Using too much sauce: This can make your sliders soggy and fall apart
  • Not covering during the first bake: The tops may brown too quickly without melting the cheese
  • Cutting too soon: Letting the sliders rest a few minutes helps everything set for clean slices
  • Skipping the butter topping: It adds tons of flavor and helps crisp up the tops

Want more snack-style tips? Our Snake Charmers Pretzels are another great option for creative party munchies.

Serving Suggestions: Superbowl Appetizers & Football Party Food

These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Party are perfect for any tailgate or big game party. Arrange them on a large platter with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or spicy garlic aioli.

Pair them with crowd-pleasers like:

For drinks, consider fun, non-alcoholic options like Lavender Lemonade or Strawberry Cream Soda.

Variations: From Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza to Sliders with a Twist

Looking to switch things up? Try these ideas:

  • Cheese Tortellini Pepperoni Pizza Bake: Try our Pepperoni Pizza Tortellini Casserole if you want a pasta-style dish with the same flavors
  • BBQ Chicken Sliders: Swap pepperoni for shredded BBQ chicken
  • Breakfast Pizza Sliders: Add scrambled eggs and sausage for a morning party
  • Vegetarian Sliders: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or olives instead of meat

More great ideas like this can be found in our Dinner Category.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place them in a preheated 300°F oven for 8–10 minutes or microwave on a plate for 30–45 seconds. For best results, reheat uncovered in the oven to keep the tops crisp.

These also make a great next-day lunch, just like our Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches.

Can You Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders up to one day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving. For meal prep, you can also freeze them before baking, then thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

It’s a great strategy for busy event days, similar to prepping Make-Ahead Breakfast Bowls or Crack Breakfast Casserole.

What to Serve With Pepperoni Pizza Sliders

Want to round out your menu? Here are perfect pairings:

These ideas make your gathering feel complete and festive.

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Kids and Adults

Everyone loves pizza, which makes these sliders a universal hit. For kids, you can make a simple version with cheese only or let them help assemble the layers. For adults, spice things up with jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or fresh herbs.

You could also set up a slider bar with different toppings and sauces so guests can customize—just like a mini pizza party!

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders FAQ

Can I use marinara instead of pizza sauce?
Yes! Just be sure it’s thick enough so the sliders don’t get soggy.

Can I freeze them after baking?
Technically yes, but they’re best fresh. If you freeze, wrap tightly and reheat in the oven.

Do these work with gluten-free rolls?
Absolutely. Just watch your bake time and adjust for smaller or denser bread types.

How many people does one tray serve?
A standard 12-pack of rolls serves 6–8 people as an appetizer.

Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Game Day and Holiday Appetizer

Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Party are everything you want in an appetizer—easy to make, budget-friendly, and loved by everyone. Whether you’re hosting a holiday, tailgate, or kids’ birthday party, these sliders make entertaining a breeze.

They’re delicious warm or room temperature, easy to transport, and completely customizable. For more party-friendly dishes, check out Superbowl Appetizers or Dinner Recipes.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it and subscribe to the blog for more party-perfect dishes.

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Irresistible Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Party: A Game Day Hit


  • Author: Lyndy
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Description

These Pepperoni Pizza Sliders For Party are the ultimate game day appetizer. Made with soft Hawaiian rolls, gooey melted mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni, these pull-apart mini sandwiches are perfect for parties, holidays, and casual gatherings. They’re quick, easy, crowd-pleasing, and always the first to disappear.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

  • 1 pack (12-count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
  • 1 cup pizza sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 package (6 oz) sliced pepperoni
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil, black olives

Instructions

  1. Prep Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Slice Rolls: Using a serrated knife, slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally without separating the individual rolls. Place the bottom half in the baking dish.
  3. Assemble Base Layer: Spread pizza sauce over the bottom layer of rolls. Add half the mozzarella cheese, layer the pepperoni slices, then add the remaining mozzarella.
  4. Add Top Rolls: Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese and pepperoni.
  5. Brush Topping: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Brush over the tops of the rolls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 10–12 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 5–7 minutes until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  7. Serve: Let rest a few minutes, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

  • Don’t oversauce: Too much sauce can cause soggy rolls.
  • Cover first, crisp later: Keep the sliders covered during the first bake to melt the cheese evenly, then uncover for browning.
  • Add a spicy kick: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Fresh basil: Adds color and bright flavor.
  • Make-ahead option: Assemble up to one day ahead and bake before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slider
  • Calories: 260
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Pepperoni Pizza Sliders, Party Sliders, Game Day Appetizers, Superbowl Recipes, Football Party Food, Hawaiian Roll Sliders

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