Pizza Sliders Hawaiian Rolls
A crowd-pleasing appetizer featuring sweet Hawaiian rolls layered with a moisture-blocking cheese barrier, zesty marinara, and pepperoni, finished with a savory garlic-Parmesan butter glaze.
Equipment
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Serrated Knife
- Pastry brush
- Aluminum Foil
Ingredients
- 1 package Hawaiian Rolls
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 3 ounces pepperoni
- 1.5 cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 0.25 cup butter melted
- 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
Prep the rolls and oven
- Heat the oven to 375°F, and set a rimmed baking sheet nearby so any butter stays contained.
- Keep the rolls connected, then use a long serrated knife to slice the whole slab horizontally, aiming for an even cut so the tops sit flat and the bottoms stay sturdy.
Build the moisture barrier and layers
- Place the bottom sheet of rolls on the baking sheet, then lay down your moisture barrier first, a single layer of cheese across the bottom bun, so the sauce cannot soak in.
- Spoon on the marinara or pizza sauce in an even, thin layer, then add the pepperoni, and finish with the shredded mozzarella so it melts into a bubbly blanket.
- Set the top sheet of rolls back on, and press very gently so everything settles without squishing the fillings out the sides.
Glaze and bake
- Stir the melted butter with the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and dried oregano, then brush it generously over the tops, letting it drip into the creases.
- Bake for 12 minutes at 375°F, until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If the rolls darken too quickly, rest a loose tent of aluminum foil over the pan.
Slice and serve
- Let the pan sit for one minute so the cheese sets slightly, then cut between the rolls and serve warm while the centers are still stretchy.
Notes
Safety Tip: Watch the oven closely during the final minutes because the sugar content in Hawaiian rolls can cause them to go from golden to burnt very quickly.
Technique Tip: Always apply a layer of cheese directly to the bottom bun before adding sauce. This creates a moisture barrier that keeps the bread from becoming soggy.
Storage Tip: For leftovers, avoid using the microwave as it makes the bread chewy. Reheat in the oven or an air fryer at 350 degrees F to restore the crispy top.
Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.