Name: Prosciutto Cheese Pull Apart Sliders: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls; 8 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Prosciutto Cheese Pull Apart Sliders: Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite! Imagine warm, buttery rolls, oozing with melted cheese and layered with the salty, savory goodness of prosciutto. These aren't your average sliders; they're an irresistible appetizer or a fun, casual meal that will have everyone reaching for more.

The concept of pull-apart bread has been around for ages, a communal dish meant to be shared and enjoyed. Adding the Italian flair of prosciutto elevates this simple pleasure to something truly special. Prosciutto, dry-cured ham, has a rich history dating back to Roman times, prized for its delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Combining it with cheese and soft rolls creates a symphony of textures and tastes that's simply divine.

What makes these Prosciutto Cheese Pull Apart Sliders so beloved? It's the perfect combination of comfort and sophistication. The warm, pillowy rolls are incredibly satisfying, while the salty prosciutto and gooey cheese provide an addictive savory flavor. They're also incredibly convenient to make, perfect for potlucks, game day gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, the pull-apart nature makes them interactive and fun to eat, encouraging sharing and conversation. Trust me, once you try these, they'll become a new favorite!

Ingredients:

1 (12-count) package Hawaiian sweet rolls
8 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto
8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Sliders:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring the rolls bake evenly and the cheese melts beautifully. Make sure your oven rack is in the center position.
Prepare the Hawaiian sweet rolls. Without separating the rolls, use a large serrated knife to slice the entire package horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. Be careful to keep the rolls connected as much as possible – this will make assembly much easier. Think of it like creating one giant sandwich.
Layer the prosciutto. On the bottom half of the sweet rolls, evenly distribute the prosciutto slices. Don't be shy! You want a good layer of salty, savory goodness. Overlap the slices slightly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Add the mozzarella. Next, layer the sliced fresh mozzarella over the prosciutto. Again, make sure the cheese is evenly distributed across the rolls. If your mozzarella slices are large, you might want to tear them into smaller pieces to ensure they cover the entire surface. Fresh mozzarella is key here for its creamy texture and mild flavor, which complements the prosciutto perfectly.
Place the top half of the rolls back on. Carefully place the top half of the sweet rolls back onto the mozzarella layer. Try to align the top and bottom halves as precisely as possible.

Making the Butter Glaze:

Melt the butter. In a small bowl, melt the unsalted butter. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a small saucepan over low heat. Be careful not to burn the butter.
Whisk in the Dijon mustard. Add the Dijon mustard to the melted butter and whisk until well combined. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the rolls and the richness of the prosciutto and mozzarella.
Add the honey. Next, add the honey to the butter and mustard mixture. Whisk again until everything is smooth and emulsified. The honey adds a touch of sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize beautifully in the oven.
Incorporate the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (optional). Add the dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the glaze. Whisk one final time to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed. The Italian seasoning adds a classic savory flavor, the garlic powder enhances the overall taste, and the red pepper flakes provide a subtle hint of heat.

Baking the Sliders:

Brush the glaze over the rolls. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter glaze over the top of the sweet rolls. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. You might have some glaze leftover, which is perfectly fine. You can use it to brush the rolls again halfway through baking for an extra glossy finish.
Cover with foil. Cover the sliders loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent the tops of the rolls from browning too quickly and ensure the cheese melts completely.
Bake. Bake the covered sliders in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Remove the foil. After 15 minutes, carefully remove the aluminum foil.
Continue baking. Continue baking the sliders, uncovered, for another 5-10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. The exact baking time will depend on your oven.
Let cool slightly. Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the cheese to set slightly and prevent it from oozing out everywhere when you cut them.

Serving and Garnishing:

Slice and serve. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the sliders along the pre-cut lines to separate them.
Garnish (optional). Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Serve immediately. Serve the Prosciutto Cheese Pull Apart Sliders immediately while they are warm and gooey. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.

Tips and Variations:

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Provolone, fontina, or even a smoked mozzarella would be delicious alternatives.
Meat Variations: If you're not a fan of prosciutto, you can substitute it with other cured meats like ham, salami, or even cooked bacon.
Spice it Up: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter glaze or sprinkle some on top of the cheese before baking.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding some thinly sliced roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.
Make it Ahead: You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Garlic Lovers: For an even more intense garlic flavor, add a clove of minced garlic to the melted butter along with the garlic powder.
Herb Infusion: Infuse the melted butter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a more complex flavor profile. Simply add the herbs to the butter while it's melting and let them steep for a few minutes before removing them.
Sweet and Savory: For a sweeter twist, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking. The balsamic glaze adds a tangy sweetness that complements the salty prosciutto and creamy mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions: These sliders are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or a quick and easy weeknight meal. Serve them with a side salad or some potato chips for a complete meal.
Storage: Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Prosciutto Cheese Pull Apart Sliders!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Prosciutto Cheese Pull Apart Sliders are truly a game-changer. From the salty, savory prosciutto to the gooey, melted cheese, all nestled within a soft, buttery roll, every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture. I honestly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a fun and easy lunch, or even a satisfying snack. The combination of ingredients is simply irresistible, and the pull-apart nature makes them incredibly fun to share (or not – I won't judge if you keep them all to yourself!). But what truly sets these sliders apart is their versatility. While the prosciutto and cheese combination is a classic for a reason, don't be afraid to experiment and make them your own!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a little kick. Or, incorporate some finely chopped jalapeños into the cheese filling for a more pronounced heat. * Go Italian: Swap the prosciutto for salami or pepperoni for a different flavor profile. A sprinkle of Italian seasoning in the butter mixture would also enhance the Italian flair. * Make it vegetarian: Replace the prosciutto with roasted red peppers, grilled zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms. A pesto spread would also be a delicious addition. * Cheese, please!: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gruyere, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar would all work beautifully. A combination of cheeses can also add depth and complexity. * Add some greens: A handful of fresh arugula or spinach tucked into the sliders before baking adds a touch of freshness and a pop of color. * Dipping sauces: Serve these sliders with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, pesto, honey mustard, or a creamy garlic aioli. These are just a few ideas to get you started. The possibilities are endless! The beauty of this recipe is that it's so adaptable to your own tastes and preferences. I'm confident that once you try these Prosciutto Cheese Pull Apart Sliders, they'll become a staple in your recipe repertoire. They're perfect for parties, potlucks, game days, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests (or simply treat yourself!). They are also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights. The minimal prep time and simple instructions mean you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the joy of these amazing sliders. I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, I'd love to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe as is, or did you put your own spin on it? What were your favorite variations? Share your photos and comments below. Let me know what you think, and inspire others to try this delicious and easy recipe. Happy baking (and eating)! I can't wait to see what culinary creations you come up with! Don't forget to rate the recipe once you've tried it! Your feedback helps me create even more delicious recipes for you to enjoy.