Pesto Mozzarella Sliders

Name: Pesto Mozzarella Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 12 slider buns; 12 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1 cup basil pesto; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Busy Meals

I love making Pesto Mozzarella Sliders for gatherings because they always disappear in a flash! With fresh mozzarella, vibrant pesto, and toasted buns, these sliders are bursting with flavor. The combination is irresistible, and they are so easy to whip up. Whether it's a casual get-together or a game day feast, these sliders bring a delightful twist to the table that everyone enjoys. Plus, they can be made in just 30 minutes, making them a great last-minute option to impress your guests!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:09:35.919Z

During my last dinner party, I decided to try my hand at Pesto Mozzarella Sliders, and they were a total hit! I was inspired by the classic caprese flavors but wanted to offer something unique and fun. By using fresh ingredients and a quick bake, I created these delectable little sandwiches that wowed my friends.

What really makes these sliders shine is the balance of flavors. The peppery basil in the pesto pairs harmoniously with the creamy mozzarella, and toasting the buns adds a lovely crunch. I found that assembling them right before serving ensures the bread stays crisp while the cheese remains melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh taste from vibrant pesto and creamy mozzarella
Quick and easy to assemble, perfect for last-minute parties
Crowd-pleaser that kids and adults both adore

      

Perfecting Your Pesto

The quality of your pesto can significantly influence the flavors of your sliders. I recommend using a fresh, homemade basil pesto for the best results, as it will provide a vibrant taste that elevates the entire dish. If you're short on time, store-bought pestos work well too; look for one with high-quality olive oil and fresh basil in the ingredients list. You can also customize your pesto by adding nuts like walnuts or pine nuts for an extra nutty undertone.

When spreading the pesto on the buns, make sure to use a generous layer; this ensures that each bite is packed with flavor. A thick layer prevents the buns from becoming too dry and allows the vibrant herbaceous notes of the basil to shine through, complementing the rich creaminess of the mozzarella cheese.

Bun Selection and Preparation

The type of slider bun you choose can impact the texture and overall enjoyment of your sliders. Soft, slightly sweet slider buns complement the richness of the mozzarella and pesto beautifully. I personally love using brioche or potato buns for their fluffy texture and slight sweetness. Make sure to cut them in half carefully to avoid tearing, which can lead to messy sliders during assembly.

Brushing the buns with olive oil not only adds flavor but also creates a crisp outer layer when baked. If you find that your sliders are growing soggy too quickly, consider toasting the buns lightly before assembling them. This simple step helps create a barrier that keeps the buns from absorbing too much moisture from the cheese and pesto.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious Pesto Mozzarella Sliders:

Ingredients

12 slider buns
12 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients prepared, it's time to move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Pesto Mozzarella Sliders:

Prepare the Buns

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the slider buns in half and arrange them on a baking sheet. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and lightly season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread a generous layer of basil pesto on the bottom half of each slider bun. Place a slice of fresh mozzarella on top, followed by some fresh basil leaves. Cap each slider with the top half of the bun.

Bake the Sliders

Place the assembled sliders in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the buns are golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional basil if desired.

Enjoy your freshly made Pesto Mozzarella Sliders!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, try sprinkling some red pepper flakes on the sliders before baking.

Make-Ahead Tips

These Pesto Mozzarella Sliders can be prepared in advance for maximum convenience. Once you’ve assembled the sliders, you can cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. This is particularly useful for parties, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Just bake them directly from the refrigerator; you may need to add a couple of extra minutes to ensure they're thoroughly heated.

If you want to prepare them even further ahead, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked sliders. Wrap them tightly in foil and store them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to two months. To bake, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and follow the same baking instructions as fresh sliders.

Serving Suggestions

To make your sliders even more delightful, consider serving them with a side of homemade or store-bought marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy flavor of the marinara complements the richness of the mozzarella and pesto perfectly. You can also elevate the presentation by serving sliders on a wooden cutting board with fresh basil sprigs for a pop of color.

For a fun twist, try adding toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers inside the sliders. These additions not only enhance the flavor profile but also add extra textures that elevate the overall eating experience. Don’t hesitate to mix and match ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto can save you time and still offer great flavor.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with the sliders?

These sliders pair well with a fresh salad or a side of crispy fries.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gouda.