Italian Sliders are easy to make and packed with delicious flavor. Loaded with deli meats, provolone cheese, pesto, tomatoes, and fresh basil, they’re the perfect sandwiches for your next picnic!
Ahhh….sandwiches. Where would we be without them? They’re easy to make and take on the go, everyone loves them, and the possibilities for them are endless. Between the bread and the fillings and the option to grill or bake or make them in a panini press, they really can look any way you want them to. And of all the different ways to do sandwiches? I’m pretty sure sliders are our favorite.
Not only are sliders mini (which automatically scores them some points), but they’re the perfect party food. They’re easy to prep, easy to eat, and the perfect size for a party spread.
We love the fact that we can make them in advance, stick them in the fridge, and pull them out once guests arrive. And we love the fact that they make enough to feed a crowd. Whether you’re planning a party, looking for an easy weeknight dinner recipe, or thinking ahead to back-to-school lunches, these Italian Sliders are sure to become a new favorite!
what you’ll need for this recipe
- Small sandwich rolls
- Basil pesto
- Deli meats (I used a combination of turkey, ham, and salami)
- Provolone cheese
- Roma tomatoes
- Fresh basil
- Italian seasoning
- Olive oil
how to make Italian Sliders
- Start by slicing the rolls in half lengthwise. Typically sandwich rolls come attached to one another, and it’s easiest to just leave them attached. (See process photos below.)
- Spread pesto evenly over the bottom halves of the rolls.
- Top with meats, cheese, tomatoes, basil, Italian seasoning, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Place the top halves of the rolls on top.
- Cut to separate; serve cold OR bake at 350° for 15-20 minutes, until cheese is melted and sandwiches are heated through.
what is a slider?
A slider is a small sandwich, typically around 2 inches across, made with a bun. The word slider typically refers to small hamburgers, but can be used to describe any small sandwich made with a slider roll. Sliders are often baked; however, this recipe was made to be served cold (with the option of baking).
Recipe Variations
- Add or substitute chicken or roast beef
- Use whole wheat, poppy seed, or Sweet Hawaiian Rolls in place of the mini kaiser rolls.
- Make this recipe on a loaf of Italian or French bread, then cut into pieces to serve.
- Substitute sun-dried tomato pesto for the basil pesto.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella, parmesan, or asiago.
- Add sliced black olives and/or sliced peppers.
- Bake or press in a panini maker instead of serving cold.
make-ahead & storage tips
To make ahead, simply prepare the sliders as described, then cover with foil and store in the refrigerator until ready to serve. For best results, serve within 24 hours. If you need to store them longer, my suggestion would be to bake them before serving. Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last 2-3 days; however, the bread might get soggy from the pesto and tomatoes. If this happens, the leftovers may taste better heated.
Italian Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 package bakery-style mini kaiser rolls
- 2/3 cup basil pesto
- 1/2 pound sliced oven-roasted turkey
- 1/2 pound sliced ham off the bone
- 1/4 pound thinly sliced salami
- 8 ounces sliced provolone cheese
- 2 Roma tomatoes thinly sliced
- 12 fresh basil leaves thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Slice rolls in half lengthwise.
- Using 1/3 cup pesto, spread a thin layer on the bottom half of rolls.
- Top with turkey, ham, salami, and cheese.
- Add sliced tomatoes and basil. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and drizzle with olive oil.
- Spread remaining 1/3 cup pesto on the top half of rolls and place on top.
- Cut rolls apart (if they are attached) and enjoy!
Kim Seghers says
My family loves little sandwiches. And, these Italian Sliders are amazing. So great to pack for picnics too.
Cathy Trochelman says
My family loves them too! Hope you guys enjoy!!
Beth Pierce says
What a savory dish! A restaurant worthy recipe, indeed! Can’t wait to have this for dinner tonight!
Catalina says
Yum! Exactly what I need for summer lunches or picnics!
Erin | Dinners,Dishes and Dessert says
These are just so adorable!!
Deseree says
These can be slide onto my table any day of the week! Loaded with all my favorite sandwich ingredients and perfect for lunch or dinner.
Cathy Trochelman says
Yes! We love them for both!!