Chopped Italian Sliders are tasty little sandwiches packed with flavors! They’re made with juicy beef, Italian spices, and gooey cheese, all on soft slider buns.
These bites are perfect for parties or a fun family dinner. I love serving them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it makes them even more yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls are ideal for this recipe. If you want something different, you can use mini brioche or pretzel buns for a fun twist!
Shredded Beef: Roast beef or brisket are the best choices here. You can also use shredded chicken or turkey if that’s what you have. It keeps the sandwiches juicy!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is perfectly fine, but homemade sauce adds a personal touch. If looking for a lighter option, try using a simple tomato sauce mixed with Italian herbs.
Cheese: Mozzarella is creamy and melty, but feel free to mix in provolone or even gouda for a different flavour. You could also use dairy-free cheese if you prefer vegan options.
How Do I Get the Perfect Beef Mixture?
The beef filling is where all the magic happens. Make sure you mix the shredded beef with marinara sauce and spices in a large bowl, ensuring every piece is coated well. This gives your sliders tons of flavor!
- Mix shredded beef with marinara, garlic powder, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste; if you like more kick, add a bit extra red pepper flakes.
What’s the Best Way to Bake Sliders for That Perfect Texture?
Baking is an important step to get the sliders warm and the cheese perfectly melted. Covering with foil helps to steam the buns, making them soft. Remove the foil at the end to achieve a nice golden top.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to set the right baking temperature.
- Bake covered for about 15 minutes, and then broil for just 1-2 minutes for a crisp finish.
Enjoy making these Chopped Italian Sliders, and feel free to get creative with the ingredients and baking process!
Chopped Italian Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 2 lbs cooked shredded beef (such as roast beef or brisket)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce or Italian tomato sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Butter Topping:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. You’ll spend a few fun moments assembling the sliders, and then they’ll need some time in the oven to become perfectly warm and cheesy! Total time is around 30-35 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded beef with the marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well so that the beef is lightly coated with the sauce and spices. This gives the sliders a burst of flavor!
2. Preheat the Oven:
While you’re preparing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the sliders bake evenly and get nicely melted inside.
3. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Take the slider buns and slice them in half horizontally. Arrange the bottom halves snugly in a baking dish or a large oven-safe pan. Make sure they are close together but not overlapping. This helps to hold the filling in place.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Now for the fun part! Spread that yummy beef mixture evenly over the bottom halves of the buns. Make sure it’s spread out well. Next, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the beef—this will make everything gooey and delicious!
5. Add the Tops:
Place the top halves of the buns gently over the cheese layer to create your sliders. Press down slightly to help everything stick together.
6. Make the Butter Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with the Italian seasoning and chopped parsley. This flavorful butter will give your sliders a nice golden and aromatic finish!
7. Brush the Tops:
Generously brush the butter mixture over the tops of the slider buns. This is what makes them crispy and flavorful.
8. Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for about 15 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and warms the sliders thoroughly.
9. Broil for Top Color (Optional):
If you want a golden, crispy top, remove the foil and broil the sliders for an additional 1-2 minutes—just keep an eye on them to avoid burning. It’s worth it for that perfect finish!
10. Serve:
Once baking is done, carefully take them out of the oven. Let them cool slightly, then cut the sliders apart. Serve warm and, if you like, add some extra chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. These sliders are delicious when paired with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!
Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of these Chopped Italian Sliders! They are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Shredded Beef?
Absolutely! Ground beef works perfectly for this recipe. Just cook and season it similarly before layering it in the sliders. You might want to drain excess fat for a lighter version.
How Long Will These Sliders Stay Fresh?
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re kept tightly sealed to maintain freshness!
Can I Make These Sliders Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily swap out the beef for a mixture of sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta cheese, or use plant-based meat alternatives. Just ensure you season it well for that tasty Italian flavor!
What Can I Serve With These Sliders?
Chopped Italian Sliders pair wonderfully with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, crispy fries, or a fresh salad. They make for a delicious appetizer or a satisfying main course!