These Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Sliders are a fun twist on your favorite pizza! Packed with tasty pepperoni, gooey cheese, and a soft bun, they’re perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Making these sliders is so easy, even my cat watches me in confusion! 🐱 Just layer everything, pop them in the air fryer, and in no time you have cheesy goodness to enjoy.
I love serving them with a side of marinara for dipping—it’s like a pizza adventure in every bite! Perfect for game nights or anytime you crave a little comfort food. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: I love using Hawaiian rolls for their slight sweetness. They hold up well with the fillings but you can use any soft bread like dinner rolls or even bagels for a different twist!
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite jarred marinara or homemade sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-sugar or homemade version. You can even spice it up with herbs or red pepper flakes.
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that melty goodness. If you’re out, a blend of provolone or cheddar works well too—you’ll just get a slightly different flavor.
Pepperoni: Traditional pizza topping! If you want a healthier option, turkey or veggie pepperoni are great alternatives. Feel free to switch it to cooked sausage or even veggies if you prefer a meatless slider.
Butter and Seasonings: The garlic butter mix is a game-changer for flavor! You can swap unsalted butter for olive oil or vegan butter, and if you don’t have Italian seasoning, just mix dried oregano and basil.
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Melts Perfectly?
Getting the cheese just right is key to delicious sliders! Here’s a few tips to keep in mind:
- Preheat your air fryer thoroughly; this helps the cheese melt faster.
- Layer the cheese between the sauce and the top layer. This helps lock in moisture and keeps the buns from getting soggy.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Cook for 8-10 minutes but check at the 6-minute mark to avoid burning.
Let the sliders cool slightly before cutting. This helps keep the fillings inside and makes serving easier!
How to Make Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (e.g., Hawaiian rolls)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to cook. In total, you can have your delicious sliders ready in about 25 minutes—perfect for a quick snack or an easy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This helps the sliders cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Carefully cut the slider buns in half horizontally, but keep them connected as a single piece. Place the bottom halves into the air fryer basket, making sure they fit nicely without overcrowding.
3. Add the Marinara Sauce:
Spread a generous layer of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom buns. You want to cover them well, so every bite is flavorful!
4. Layer the Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce. This cheesy goodness will create a delicious melty layer.
5. Add the Pepperoni:
Now, layer the pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese. Feel free to add more if you love that pepperoni flavor!
6. Top it with More Cheese:
Finish by topping the pepperoni with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Then, carefully place the top half of the slider buns over everything.
7. Prepare the Topping Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Brush this mixture generously over the top of the slider buns to add flavor and a nice shine.
8. Cook the Sliders:
Place the air fryer basket in the machine and cook the sliders for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
9. Cool and Slice:
Once done, carefully remove the sliders from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, slice them apart so they’re ready to serve!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the warm sliders right away, and if you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top. Enjoy your tasty Air Fryer Pepperoni Pizza Sliders!
Can I Use Different Buns for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Hawaiian rolls are soft and sweet, you can use any slider buns you prefer, such as sesame seed, whole wheat, or even gluten-free buns. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different buns may cook at different rates.
What Can I Substitute for Pepperoni?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute pepperoni with turkey pepperoni, salami, or even fresh vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Just be sure to slice your substitutes thinly for even cooking!
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes until warmed through and the cheese melts again.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sliders up to the point of brushing with the butter mixture and refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before air frying for even cooking!
