Pesto Mozzarella Sliders

Name: Pesto Mozzarella Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 baguette, sliced into 12 pieces; 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced; 1/2 cup pesto; 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Olive oil, for drizzling

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Pesto Mozzarella Sliders! They are perfect for gatherings and make a delightful appetizer or snack. The combination of fresh mozzarella, rich pesto, and crunchy bread creates a mouthwatering treat that everyone raves about. I usually prepare these sliders during the weekends when I have family over; they disappear faster than I can say 'sliders'. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip them up in no time, and my guests are always impressed with the flavors!

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:19:09.692Z

When I first tried making Pesto Mozzarella Sliders, I was amazed at how effortlessly they came together. I experimented with different types of bread and found that a soft, fresh baguette really elevates the texture. Each bite captures the creamy mozzarella melting against the fragrant pesto, creating a flavor explosion!

One of my favorite tricks is to toast the bread lightly before assembling the sliders. This not only gives them a satisfying crunch but also helps keep the structure when the sliders are filled with the pesto and cheese! I can’t resist making these sliders for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh, aromatic pesto complements the gooey mozzarella perfectly.
Quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
Versatile – customize with your favorite toppings or additional ingredients.

      

The Perfect Baguette Base

When selecting a baguette for these sliders, aim for one that is crusty on the outside but soft on the inside. A high-quality, fresh baguette will hold up to the toppings while providing a satisfying crunch. Slice it into even pieces to ensure each bite is consistent. This will also help the sliders heat evenly in the oven, allowing for a perfect melt of the mozzarella cheese without burning the bread.

If you find that your baguette gets too crisp during baking, consider covering it loosely with aluminum foil for the first 10 minutes. This traps moisture and prevents over-browning while still allowing the cheese to melt adequately. Don't forget to check on them to avoid any surprises!

Crafting Your Pesto

The success of these sliders heavily relies on the quality of your pesto. If time permits, making your own is a fantastic option. Fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil blended together create a vibrant sauce that sings with flavor. It’s essential to balance the ingredients; too much garlic can overwhelm the dish, while too little will make the flavor flat. Aim for a pesto that is smooth yet slightly chunky for perfect texture.

For a quicker route, store-bought pesto works wonderfully, but check labels for quality. Opt for brands that use high-quality ingredients, preferably without preservatives. You can also experiment with different nuts or greens; try walnut or arugula-based pesto for a unique twist that complements the mozzarella beautifully.

Making Them Your Own

These sliders are wonderfully versatile. Feel free to customize based on your taste or what you have on hand. Consider adding a layer of fresh spinach or arugula for a peppery bite or sliced olives for a touch of brininess. Depending on your preference, different cheeses, like provolone or fontina, can also bring a delightful variation to the flavor profile. Just keep in mind that these cheeses may melt differently, so timing may need slight adjustments.

If you want a bit more zing, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. It not only enhances the visuals but also adds a sweet acidity that counters the rich flavors of the cheese and pesto. Remember, these sliders are all about creativity, so make them reflect your style and taste!

Ingredients

For the Sliders

1 baguette, sliced into 12 pieces
8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1/2 cup pesto
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for drizzling

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Baguette

Slice the baguette into 12 equal pieces. Place them on a baking sheet.

Assemble the Sliders

Spread a generous amount of pesto on each slice of baguette. Top with mozzarella slices and, if desired, a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes.

Bake the Sliders

Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven, let cool for a minute, then serve warm. Enjoy your delicious sliders!

These sliders are best enjoyed immediately while the cheese is melty!

Pro Tips

Experiment with different toppings like arugula or balsamic glaze for a twist on flavor!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing the sliders in an airtight container is best. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the sliders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the bread soggy and chewy.

For make-ahead preparations, you can assemble the sliders completely and store them in the fridge without baking. When you're ready to serve, just bake them as directed. This works wonderfully for parties or busy weekends, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests without compromising on flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

Scaling up this recipe is quite simple. Just multiply the ingredients based on the number of guests you’re expecting. Each baguette typically yields 12 sliders, so adjust the quantities accordingly. Larger gatherings may also benefit from adding a variety of toppings, which will keep things exciting and cater to different tastes.

For smaller gatherings, you can easily halve the recipe or even make just a few sliders as a quick snack. Remember to keep the baking time constant; watch for visual cues like melting cheese and golden edges to ensure they’re perfectly done. This flexibility makes these sliders a seamless choice for any size gathering.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making sliders is cheese not melting properly, which can happen if the heat is too low or if the cheese is too thickly sliced. Make sure mozzarella slices are approximately 1/4 inch thick and that your oven is adequately preheated. If they aren't bubbling, consider broiling for a minute at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Another challenge could be if the bread becomes too hard during baking. To avoid this, ensure your oven temperature is correct, and if needed, pair your slider with a fresh dipping sauce like extra pesto or marinara. This will not only enhance the flavor but also keep your sliders enjoyable!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto saves time and still tastes great.

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

You can prepare the sliders and store them in the fridge before baking. Just bake them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for mozzarella?

Provolone or goat cheese work well as alternatives.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the bread?

Yes! Look for a gluten-free baguette available at most grocery stores.