Now, sprinkle half of your mozzarella cheese over the marinara. This cheesy layer is key for that gooey texture we all love. Then, layer on the pepperoni or any of your chosen toppings. Remember, this is a customizable recipe, so get creative! Finally, top it all off with the remaining mozzarella cheese and cap it with the top half of the rolls. We’re nearly there!
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until well combined. Brush this luscious mixture generously over the top of the rolls. It’ll add that golden, crispy finish that you can’t resist! Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the rolls are golden brown. Your kitchen will start smelling like a pizzeria, and trust me, you won’t be able to wait too long before diving in!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways—using different types of bread, adjusting cooking times, and trying various toppings. The Hawaiian rolls absolutely take the prize for their sweetness, which balances perfectly with the savory toppings. If you want the rolls extra crisp, you can raise the heat to 400°F for the last few minutes.
Another tip I love is to keep a close watch during the final baking process. I once got distracted, and my sliders ended up a little too crispy—delicious but not as soft as I like! A quick peek at the oven will save your sliders from becoming overly crunchy.
Lastly, don’t skip on the seasoning in the melted butter! It really elevates the flavor of the sliders, making each bite irresistibly tasty. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you for it!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes I see is using too much sauce. While I love a saucy pizza, soggy sliders are less appealing. I recommend spreading a thin layer of marinara to start with and adding more only if needed. A little goes a long way! (See the next page below to continue…)