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Hot Italian Sub Sliders

Packed with layers of savory deli meats, melty provolone, and a zesty kick from hot cherry peppers and peperoncini, these sliders deliver bold flavor in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pack 12-count Hawaiian rolls (King’s Hawaiian recommended)
  • 6 slices deli ham Applegate Black Forest preferred
  • 6 slices salami Columbus Italian Dry Salame recommended
  • 12 slices pepperoni Applegate recommended
  • 6 slices provolone cheese
  • 1/4 cup hot cherry peppers sliced (Mezzetta brand recommended)
  • 1/4 cup peperoncini sliced (Mezzetta brand recommended)
  • 1/4 cup salted butter Kerrygold preferred
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 garlic cloves crushed

Equipment

  • 1 large baking sheet or rectangular casserole dish
  • Small bowl (for mixing seasoned butter)
  • Pastry brush (silicone recommended)
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Aluminum foil
  • Spatula for serving

Method
 

  1. Prepare your oven and pan. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or casserole dish, or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. Slice the rolls. Without separating the rolls, cut the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally so you have one sheet of tops and one sheet of bottoms. Place the bottom half into your prepared pan.
  3. Layer the fillings
  4. Start by layering on the ham slices, followed by the salami, pepperoni, and provolone cheese. Distribute the peperoncini and hot cherry peppers evenly over the cheese. Place the top half of the rolls back on top.
  5. Make the garlic butter. Melt the butter in a small bowl. Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed garlic until well combined.
  6. Brush the topping. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the rolls with the garlic butter mixture, making sure every roll is covered for maximum flavor.
  7. Bake the sliders. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through.
  8. Uncover and finish. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the tops to turn golden brown.
  9. Slice and serve. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then cut into individual sliders. Serve warm, with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Notes

Storage Tips Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through for best texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rolls soggy.
Expert Tips
✅ Don’t separate the rolls before assembling – keeping them connected makes layering and baking easier.
✅ Adjust the heat level – use banana peppers or roasted red peppers for milder flavor.
✅ Use quality deli meats – better meats mean better flavor.
✅ Make ahead friendly – assemble sliders up to 6 hours ahead, cover tightly with foil, and bake before serving.
✅ Double or triple easily – perfect for game day or large gatherings.