Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls

Name: Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 Hawaiian rolls (whole pack); 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz / 226 g); 36 slices pepperoni; 1/2 cup pizza sauce (approximately 120 mL); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (dried); 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

There’s something instantly comforting about the smell of warm bread meeting melted cheese and spicy pepperoni — that sweet-savory aroma that pulls everyone into the kitchen. These Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls marry soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls with classic pizza flavors: tangy pizza sauce, gooey mozzarella, salty pepperoni, and a buttery garlic-parsley finish. The first bite is pillowy bread, followed by a molten stretch of cheese, a bright pop of tomato, and the crisp-edged pepperoni — a playful, nostalgic riff on pizza that feels both indulgent and familiar.

This recipe is perfect when you want a crowd-pleasing appetizer for game day, an easy weeknight dinner that still feels special, or a tray of warm sliders for a casual gathering. They’re quick to assemble, bake in under half an hour, and keep well for leftovers — ideal for cozy movie nights, potlucks, or festive parties where handheld comfort food rules. If you like Hawaiian-themed comfort foods, you might also enjoy a savory sheet-pan option like this sheet-pan Hawaiian chicken for a complementary main dish.

Dish Snapshot

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 22–25 minutes
Total Time: 32–35 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders (about 1 roll each)
Difficulty Level: Easy — great for beginner bakers and busy cooks

Nutrition Highlights

Estimated nutrition per slider (1 of 12). Values are approximate and were calculated using standard portion values from USDA FoodData Central and rounded to practical numbers. If you need exact counts for medical or strict dietary needs, consult a registered dietitian or use an official nutrition calculator with your exact brands.

Calories: ~255 kcal
Protein: ~9–10 g
Carbohydrates: ~22–24 g
- Fiber: ~1 g
- Sugars: ~6–8 g (Hawaiian rolls contain added sugar)
Fat: ~13–14 g
- Saturated fat: ~6–7 g
Sodium: ~500–700 mg (higher due to pepperoni, cheese, and rolls)

Notes on nutrition:

These sliders are moderate in calories per slider but can add up if you eat multiple. The sodium and saturated fat are substantial because of processed meats and cheeses; trimming butter or choosing low-sodium/low-fat alternatives can help. These estimates are based on typical ingredient values from USDA FoodData Central and general guidance on portions from reputable health resources.

Why You’ll Love It

Irresistible flavor mash-up: sweet Hawaiian rolls + classic pepperoni pizza tastes = a craveable contrast that hits sweet, savory, and umami notes in every bite.
Crowd-friendly and efficient: one baking pan yields a platter that’s easy to slice and serve — perfect for parties or quick family dinners.
Comfort with customization: these sliders are endlessly adaptable (swap cheeses, add veggies, or make them spicy). They evoke casual shared meals and make hosting effortless — great for companionship and simple celebrations.

Preparation Guide

Ingredients:

12 Hawaiian rolls (whole pack)
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (about 8 oz / 226 g)
36 slices pepperoni
1/2 cup pizza sauce (approximately 120 mL)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (dried)
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Optional ingredients and substitutions:

Use provolone or a blend of mozzarella + cheddar for different melt/ flavor.
Substitute turkey pepperoni or thinly sliced cooked chicken for a leaner option.
For a lower-sodium version: use low-sodium rolls, low-sodium pepperoni, or reduced-sodium cheese.
Add sliced pineapple for a true Hawaiian twist, or thinly sliced bell pepper/onion for extra veggie crunch.
For dairy-free: use vegan cheese and dairy-free butter alternative.

Method — step-by-step:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning; stir until combined.
Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating the individual rolls. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish so they remain attached in a grid.
Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Use about 1/2 cup total; spread thinly to avoid sogginess.
Add a layer of shredded mozzarella across the sauce (about half of the 2 cups).
Layer pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese (about 36 slices), then top with the remaining mozzarella to create a cheese-blanket.
Place the top half of the rolls over the layered filling, pressing gently to compact.
Brush the tops of the rolls with the seasoned melted butter, making sure to cover evenly for a golden finish.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and ingredients to heat through.
Remove the foil and bake an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp and the cheese is bubbly. Check the center to ensure fully warmed.
Remove from oven, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and chopped basil or parsley. Let cool 3–5 minutes, then slice between rolls to separate sliders and serve warm.

Practical tips:

Don’t over-sauce: too much pizza sauce can make sliders soggy. Spread a thin, even layer.
Keep rolls attached while assembling to make slicing cleaner — cut with a serrated knife using a gentle sawing motion.
If your pepperoni is thick and greasy, blot slices briefly on paper towel to reduce excess oil.
Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, but freshly shredded melts better (less anti-caking agents).
Check doneness by peeking under foil to ensure cheese is bubbling before final crisping.

Best Pairings

Serve with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut richness.
For dipping: offer extra warm pizza sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic-butter dip.
Drinks: pair with cold soda, beer, or an iced tea for casual gatherings; a sparkling water with citrus brightens the palate.
If you want a sweet finish, complement the meal with a tropical dessert; try pairing with a Hawaiian cheesecake danish for contrast.

Keeping it Fresh

Room temperature: If left covered at room temperature, consume within 2 hours for food safety. For short serving windows (party platters), keep wrapped and out of direct heat.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in foil for 3–4 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or microwave individual sliders for 30–60 seconds (cheese will be hot).
Freezer: Individually wrap sliders in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 10–15 minutes).

Chef’s Advice

Choose rolls with a slightly sweet profile (like Hawaiian-style) — they provide a lovely counterpoint to the savory toppings.
For the best texture, crisp the top under foil-free baking but avoid over-browning: watch closely in the final 2–3 minutes.
Use a blend of cheeses for both melt and flavor: part mozzarella for stretch, part provolone or mild cheddar for depth.
To keep peppers and vegetables from adding moisture, roast or sauté them first to concentrate flavor.
If making ahead, assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate (do not bake). Bake just before serving for the freshest texture.

Creative Twists

Hawaiian-Pineapple Pepperoni: Add thin pineapple rounds or chopped pineapple between cheese layers for a true sweet-and-savory bite.
Meat Lovers Deluxe: Add cooked crumbled Italian sausage or diced ham to the pepperoni layer for extra heartiness.
Veggie-Packed: Replace pepperoni with sliced mushrooms, roasted peppers, and spinach; use a sprinkle of feta for tang.
Spicy Kick: Mix a few teaspoons of sriracha or red pepper flakes into the butter brush for a zingy top.
Gluten-Free / Vegan: Use gluten-free Hawaiian-style rolls and vegan mozzarella + vegan butter to create an allergen-friendly version.

Recipe Q&A

Q: Can I make these ahead and bake later?
A: Yes — assemble in the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake from chilled, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat without drying out the rolls?
A: Reheat in a 350°F oven covered for 8–10 minutes, then uncover for 2 minutes to refresh the top. Microwave briefly if time is tight, then finish in the oven for crispness.

Q: Can I use regular dinner rolls instead of Hawaiian?
A: Absolutely — the texture will be similar, but Hawaiian rolls add a signature sweet note. Adjust sauce and toppings to your taste.

Q: How can I lower sodium and saturated fat?
A: Use turkey pepperoni or reduced-sodium deli meats, reduced-fat cheese, and less butter (or a butter substitute). Also pick low-sodium rolls if available.

Q: My sliders came out soggy in the middle — how to fix?
A: Use less sauce per slider, ensure cheese is layered directly over sauce to create a barrier, and bake with a little longer uncovered to evaporate excess moisture.

Conclusion

These Pepperoni Pizza Hawaiian Rolls are proof that comfort food can be creative, easy, and shareable — a fast route to smiles and full plates. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding kids after school, or looking for a casual dinner with maximal flavor and minimal fuss, these sliders deliver. For more inspiration on pepperoni-slider style recipes, check out this take on Pepperoni Pizza Sliders from Modern Honey, and for a cheesy spin, see Daddio’s Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Sliders. Try the recipe, share your photos and tips, and join the conversation—let’s build a community of joyful, tasty home cooks.