Pesto Mozzarella Sliders

Name: Pesto Mozzarella Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 12 slider buns; 12 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; 1 cup basil pesto; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Fresh Planning

I absolutely love making Pesto Mozzarella Sliders whenever I have friends over. The combination of fresh mozzarella, vibrant basil pesto, and buttery slider buns creates a delightful flavor explosion. These little sandwiches come together quickly and are perfect for a crowd, whether as appetizers or party snacks. I usually whip them up in under 30 minutes, and the smiles they bring to my guests are priceless. They’re simple, yet the taste is so refined that everyone always asks for seconds!

Created by

Fern Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:29:37.197Z

I remember the first time I made Pesto Mozzarella Sliders for a game night with friends. I wanted something that was easy to assemble but still felt special. When I took my first bite, the creamy mozzarella paired with the zesty pesto was a game-changer! The key is to toast the slider buns just right so they get a lovely golden color and a slight crunch, providing a perfect contrast to the soft cheese.

Over the years, I’ve experimented with different toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or arugula, but the classic combination is still my favorite. I’ve found that making a homemade pesto enhances the flavor even further. Trust me, these sliders are always a hit, and they disappear faster than I can keep them on the platter!

Why You Will Love These Sliders
Bursting with bold flavors that excite the taste buds
Quick and easy to assemble for any occasion
Perfectly balanced between creamy and herby goodness

Why Fresh Ingredients Matter

Using fresh mozzarella is key to achieving the creamy texture and subtle taste that enhances these sliders. Fresh mozzarella has a mild flavor that pairs beautifully with basil pesto. When selecting mozzarella, look for a product stored in water or whey, giving it that extra moisture and freshness. It's also worth noting that buffalo mozzarella can add a richer, more luxurious taste if you want to elevate your sliders further.

The basil pesto is another star ingredient here. Homemade pesto can be made quickly with fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The vibrant green hue not only provides a flavorful punch but also adds a lovely visual appeal. Store-bought pesto can be a time-saver but opt for one made with high-quality oils and no preservatives to retain that fresh taste.

Techniques for Perfect Assembly

When assembling the sliders, make sure to evenly distribute the pesto on the bottom bun. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Also, let the mozzarella slices overlap slightly to create a melty, cohesive layer when baked. I usually use a sharp knife to slice the buns, avoiding any tearing—this helps keep all the fillings intact during assembly and baking.

Drizzling olive oil directly over the cheese not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve that golden, crispy top. Keep an eye on the sliders while baking; if they start to brown too quickly, cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the cheese fully melts.

Ingredients

For the Sliders

12 slider buns
12 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Assemble the Sliders

Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. On the bottom half, spread a generous layer of basil pesto.

Add Cheese

Layer slices of fresh mozzarella on top of the pesto, and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Season and Finish Assembly

Drizzle a little olive oil over the cheese, then add salt and pepper. Place the top half of the buns back on.

Bake

Arrange the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and cut sliders apart. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add sliced jalapeños or roasted red peppers inside the sliders before baking. You can also make the pesto ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

These Pesto Mozzarella Sliders make a fantastic appetizer, but they can easily be turned into a full meal. Pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a delightful lunch or dinner option. If you're looking to spice things up, consider adding a layer of sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers inside the sliders for added freshness and flavor depth.

You can also serve them with a side of balsamic glaze. Drizzle a bit on each slider right before serving for an extra flavor dimension. This tangy contrast to the creamy mozzarella and herby pesto will have guests clamoring for more.

Make-Ahead Tips

These sliders can be prepped in advance, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. You can assemble the sliders completely, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together even more, enhancing the overall taste.

If you're making a batch for a larger gathering, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half. Assemble the sliders but don’t bake them; instead, wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they're chilled.

→ What can I use instead of mozzarella?

Feel free to substitute with provolone or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Just thaw and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these sliders?

They pair wonderfully with a light salad, crispy chips, or even a charcuterie board!