If you are craving something irresistibly fun and bursting with flavor, this Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe is your next culinary adventure. Combining the sweet juiciness of pineapple, the savory punch of ham, and the melty goodness of mozzarella cheese all nestled in soft Hawaiian sweet rolls, these sliders make for a perfect party snack, game day treat, or even a casual weeknight dinner. The vibrant colors and exciting tastes come together in such an easy-to-make dish that you’ll wonder why you didn’t try these sooner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important to get the right balance of sweet, spicy, and cheesy perfection. Each one plays a unique role in bringing out the classic Hawaiian pizza vibes in slider form.
- 1 cup ham (chopped): Provides that smoky, meaty base that’s essential for the Hawaiian pizza flavor.
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (drained): Adds a juicy pop of sweetness that complements the savory ham beautifully.
- 12 Hawaiian Sweet Rolls (sliced in half): Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, these rolls hold all the tasty fillings perfectly.
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded): The classic melty cheese that ties everything together with gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup spicy marinara sauce: Brings a tangy and lightly spicy layer, giving each slider a saucy base.
- 1 jalapeno (diced, seeds removed): Adds a hint of heat that balances the sweetness and richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted): Used to brush on top for a golden, flavorful finish.
- 1 tablespoon oregano seasoning: Infuses an herbal touch reminiscent of classic pizza flavors.
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt: Enhances the savory notes and adds a delicious aroma.
How to Make Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent the sliders from sticking. This step sets the stage for perfectly baked sliders.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls Carefully
Using a large serrated knife, slice the Hawaiian sweet rolls horizontally but keep the top and bottom halves connected like a slab. This technique helps in assembling the sliders effortlessly and ensures they hold together while baking.
Step 3: Layer the Bottom with Sauce and Cheese
Place the bottom half of the rolls in the baking pan and evenly spread the spicy marinara sauce over this base. Follow that with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, distributing it so every bite has plenty of cheesy goodness. This layering locks in flavor right from the start.
Step 4: Add the Ham, Pineapple, and Jalapeno
Now it’s time for the star ingredients. Sprinkle the chopped ham, the juicy pineapple chunks, and the diced jalapenos evenly over the cheese layer. This combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements is what makes these Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe so unforgettable.
Step 5: Top with Remaining Cheese and Bake
Cover all the toppings with the remaining mozzarella cheese to create a golden, bubbly crust. Pop the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Your kitchen will smell like heaven at this point!
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Seasonings
While the sliders bake, mix melted butter with oregano seasoning and garlic salt. Once the sliders come out of the oven, brush this buttery mixture generously on top for a fragrant, savory finish that takes these sliders from delicious to downright addictive.
How to Serve Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your sliders beautifully. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or a few extra diced jalapenos for those who love spice can brighten the presentation and add fresh flavor notes. Even a light drizzle of a honey glaze can mesh wonderfully with the sweet and savory elements.
Side Dishes
Balance your Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe with crisp, fresh sides like a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crunchy veggie sticks dipped in ranch or blue cheese dressing. Sweet potato fries or a tropical fruit salad would also complement these sliders perfectly for a more festive meal.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re planning a party, consider serving these sliders on a rustic wooden board with toothpicks or cocktail sticks for easy grabbing. Layered on a tiered platter, they become a vibrant centerpiece. Pair with small bowls of extra marinara sauce or spicy mustard for dipping to add an interactive element to your gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hawaiian Pizza Sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping them covered ensures they stay moist and delicious rather than drying out. When ready to eat, they make for quick and satisfying snacks or lunch options.
Freezing
If you want to prepare Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe in advance, you can freeze them before baking. Wrap the assembled sliders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to two months, making them a handy freezer-friendly meal.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen sliders overnight in the refrigerator if possible. Warm them in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for 10-12 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving to keep the rolls from becoming soggy and the texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional for Hawaiian pizza flavor, you can substitute with provolone, gouda, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well.
Is it possible to make these sliders vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the ham and add more pineapple or other veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms. Using vegetarian pepperoni or plant-based ham alternatives works great too.
How spicy are Hawaiian Pizza Sliders with jalapeno?
The jalapeno adds a mild to moderate heat, which you can control by removing the seeds or adjusting the amount. If you prefer less spice, try using only a small amount or omitting it entirely.
Can I prepare these sliders without spicy marinara sauce?
Definitely! You can use regular marinara or even a pizza sauce without spice if you want a milder flavor. The sliders will still turn out delicious.
What is the best type of rolls to use?
Hawaiian sweet rolls are perfect because they add a subtle sweetness and soft texture that complements the salty ham and tangy pineapple. If unavailable, any soft, slightly sweet dinner roll can work in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
Making these Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe is like crafting little bites of sunshine filled with sweet, savory, spicy, and cheesy goodness all at once. They’re perfect for sharing, easy to customize, and bound to become a fast favorite in your recipe collection. Grab your ingredients and start layering — your next snack or meal just got a whole lot more exciting!
Print
Hawaiian Pizza Sliders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Hawaiian Pizza Sliders are a delightful twist on classic pizza, featuring sweet pineapple, savory ham, spicy jalapeños, and gooey mozzarella packed between soft Hawaiian sweet rolls. Perfect for parties, game day, or an easy family dinner, these sliders bake quickly and deliver a delicious combo of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup ham, chopped
- 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
- 12 Hawaiian sweet rolls, sliced in half
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup spicy marinara sauce
- 1 jalapeno, diced with seeds removed
Butter Mixture
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon oregano seasoning
- 1 tablespoon garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the sliders.
- Prepare Baking Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Slice Rolls: Using a large serrated knife, carefully slice the Hawaiian sweet rolls in half horizontally so that you have a single connected ‘slab’ of tops and bottoms, ensuring they stay connected for easy assembly.
- Assemble Base: Place the bottom half slab of the rolls on the prepared baking pan, making sure they are evenly spread out.
- Add Sauce: Spread the spicy marinara sauce evenly over the bottom half of the rolls to create a flavored base for the toppings.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce layer.
- Add Toppings: Distribute the chopped ham, pineapple chunks, and diced jalapeños evenly over the cheese layer to create a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy.
- Top with Cheese: Cover the toppings with the remaining mozzarella cheese to ensure a melted, cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the assembled sliders in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rolls are slightly toasted.
- Prepare Butter Mixture: While the sliders bake, mix together the melted butter, oregano seasoning, and garlic salt until combined.
- Brush Butter Mixture: Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and brush the butter mixture generously over the top slab of rolls to add flavor and a golden finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the sliders if desired, serve warm, and enjoy this delicious Hawaiian pizza-inspired treat!
Notes
- To reduce spiciness, omit the jalapeños or use milder peppers.
- You can substitute ham with cooked bacon or turkey for variation.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rolls or sandwich buns.
- Make sure pineapple chunks are well-drained to avoid soggy sliders.
- Leftover sliders can be reheated in the oven for best texture retention.
