Craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful bite? Look no further! Hot Italian Sub Sliders are your new go-to. Forget the processed fast food and embrace the taste of Italy in mini form. I remember those busy weeknights juggling work and family, always searching for something satisfying that wouldn’t keep me chained to the stove for hours. These sliders are the answer! Packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with authentic Italian flavor, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Growing up, Sundays were always reserved for my Nonna’s incredible Italian feasts. The aroma of simmering tomato sauce and fresh herbs would fill the entire house. While I can’t replicate Nonna’s sauce exactly (it’s a secret!), these Hot Italian Sub Sliders are my way of capturing that same comforting, flavorful essence in a quick and easy format. They remind me of home and family, and I hope they’ll bring a little of that Italian warmth to your table too.
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns
- 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 ounces provolone cheese, sliced
- Optional: banana peppers, giardiniera
For the Assembly:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Recipe
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown Italian sausage, onion, and green bell pepper in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Place bottoms in a baking dish.
- Spoon sausage mixture onto the bottom buns.
- Top with provolone cheese slices. If using banana peppers or giardiniera, add them now.
- Place the top buns over the cheese.
- Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and buns are golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before carefully slicing and serving.
Expert Tips for Best Results
For the most delectable Hot Italian Sub Sliders, remember these crucial tips. Opt for high-quality Italian sausage, as it’s the heart of the recipe. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types – sweet, mild, or hot – to suit your taste. When browning the sausage, break it up into small pieces for even cooking and better distribution throughout the sliders. To prevent soggy buns, lightly toast the slider buns before adding the sausage mixture. This creates a barrier that helps maintain their texture. Use a sharp serrated knife for slicing the sliders after baking to ensure clean cuts and prevent squashing. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the provolone before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Hot Italian Sub Sliders are an ideal choice for a casual lunch, game day gathering, or a quick weeknight dinner. Pair them with a crisp side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sliders. For a heartier meal, serve alongside some classic potato chips or waffle fries. To elevate the Italian experience, offer a selection of Italian sodas or a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio. These sliders also make fantastic appetizers for parties; simply arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Consider providing small bowls of extra toppings like banana peppers, giardiniera, or a spicy marinara sauce for guests to customize their sliders to their liking.
Conclusion
Hot Italian Sub Sliders are more than just a quick meal; they’re a flavorful experience packed into a convenient package. They combine the comforting taste of Italian cuisine with the ease of slider format, making them perfect for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or even party appetizers. The combination of savory Italian sausage, melted provolone cheese, and aromatic herbs delivers a satisfying bite that keeps you coming back for more. Easy to customize with your favorite toppings, these sliders are a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to satisfy cravings. So, ditch the takeout menus and embrace the delicious simplicity of Hot Italian Sub Sliders – a healthy, flavorful, and quick option for any occasion.
Hot Italian Sub Sliders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown Italian sausage, onion, and green bell pepper in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Place bottoms in a baking dish.
- Spoon sausage mixture onto the bottom buns.
- Top with provolone cheese slices. If using banana peppers or giardiniera, add them now.
- Place the top buns over the cheese.
- Brush the tops of the buns with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian seasoning.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly and buns are golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before carefully slicing and serving.
Notes
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