Pesto Mozzarella Sliders

Name: Pesto Mozzarella Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 12 slider buns; 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; 1/2 cup basil pesto; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional); 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional); Olive oil for brushing

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I recently whipped up these Pesto Mozzarella Sliders for a gathering, and they were an absolute hit! The combination of herby pesto and creamy mozzarella on soft slider buns created a deliciously satisfying bite that everyone loved. I appreciate how easy they are to prepare, making them a fantastic option whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a quick snack. The flavors meld beautifully, and you can even customize them with additional toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil if you'd like to elevate the taste even more.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:34:06.867Z

Making Pesto Mozzarella Sliders was a delightful experience. I combined fresh ingredients to ensure each bite was bursting with flavor. To get that perfect melt on the mozzarella, I grilled the sliders just until the cheese started to ooze, creating a wonderful texture that paired perfectly with the crunchy slider bun.

I also experimented with different types of pesto, and I found that a basil pesto gave it a vibrant taste that balanced beautifully with the mild mozzarella. For an extra kick, I added a touch of red pepper flakes to the mix!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh and zesty pesto enhances the creamy mozzarella.
Perfectly toasted sliders create a delightful crunch.
Great for parties, they’re easy to make and serve.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to the rich flavor of these Pesto Mozzarella Sliders lies in the synergy between fresh mozzarella and basil pesto. Fresh mozzarella provides a creamy texture that melts beautifully, while the zesty pesto infuses each bite with vibrant herbaceousness. If fresh mozzarella is unavailable, you can opt for bocconcini or low-moisture mozzarella, but keep in mind the melting quality may differ slightly.

Sun-dried tomatoes are an optional but excellent addition that adds a concentrated sweetness and chewy texture to the sliders. When selecting your sun-dried tomatoes, choose those packed in oil for added flavor. If you prefer a fresher option, cherry tomatoes roasted with olive oil provide a tasty alternative that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

Tips for Perfectly Toasted Buns

To achieve that desirable crunch on your slider buns, preheating your grill or pan is essential. Aim for medium heat, roughly 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the buns to toast evenly without burning. When you place the sliders cut-side down, keep a close eye on them, as the toasting process typically takes about 5 minutes.

For an additional layer of flavor, experiment with flavored oils, such as garlic-infused olive oil, instead of regular olive oil when brushing the buns. This subtle enhancement can elevate the overall taste profile, making every bite even more enjoyable. Just remember to keep the heat manageable to prevent scorching the buns.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make delicious Pesto Mozzarella Sliders:

For the Sliders

12 slider buns
1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
1/2 cup basil pesto
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Olive oil for brushing

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create your sliders!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Pesto Mozzarella Sliders:

Prepare the Sliders

Preheat your grill or a stovetop pan over medium heat. Slice each slider bun in half and brush the cut sides with olive oil. Spread a generous amount of pesto on the bottom half of each bun.

Assemble the Ingredients

Layer fresh mozzarella slices on top of the pesto spread. If you’re using sun-dried tomatoes, sprinkle them over the cheese before replacing the top halves of the buns.

Grill the Sliders

Place the assembled sliders on the grill or in the pan, cut side down. Grill for about 5 minutes or until the buns are golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the sliders from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Now, enjoy your delicious Pesto Mozzarella Sliders!

Pro Tips

For a variation, try using roasted red pepper pesto, or add sliced olives for an extra flavor boost.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these sliders in advance, you can assemble them up to a day ahead of time. Keep the assembled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill them. This not only saves time but allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, enhancing the flavor.

For leftover sliders, store them in a covered container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat these sliders in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps restore the bun's crispy texture while ensuring the cheese melts smoothly without drying out.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize your sliders with different cheeses or spreads. A tangy goat cheese could pair well with pesto for those looking for something bolder, or replacing pesto with a sun-dried tomato spread adds a different zest entirely. You can even experiment with additional toppings such as arugula or a light drizzle of balsamic reduction.

If you’re catering to dietary restrictions, gluten-free slider buns make for an excellent substitute, allowing everyone to enjoy the sliders. Additionally, consider adding protein like grilled chicken or turkey slices to make the sliders more filling, transforming them from appetizers into a complete meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works perfectly and saves time.

→ How can I make these sliders vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure your slider buns are also vegetarian-friendly.

→ Can I prepare these sliders in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the sliders in advance and grill them just before serving.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add ingredients like roasted bell peppers, arugula, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.