Caprese Sliders are one of those recipes that feel fancy but are super simple to throw together. These little sandwiches are loaded with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a tangy balsamic glaze all packed into warm, buttery rolls.
They’re perfect for a snack, a party, or even a quick dinner. Kids love the bite-sized portions, and adults appreciate how fresh and flavorful they are.
Let’s dive in and make these sliders together
What You’ll Need
- 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls work great)
- 1 lb fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp balsamic glaze
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Tools:
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Pastry brush
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Pro Tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and aromatic basil make all the difference.
- Toast the buns lightly: Brushing the tops with melted butter and garlic powder makes them golden and flavorful.
- Don’t overdo the balsamic glaze: A little drizzle goes a long way—it adds sweetness without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Slice evenly: Keeping your tomatoes and mozzarella slices uniform ensures a balanced bite every time.
- Make it kid-friendly: If the kids are picky, you can serve the balsamic glaze on the side for dipping.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Cheese Swap: Use shredded mozzarella or provolone if fresh mozzarella isn’t available.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free slider buns.
- Add Protein: Add thin slices of prosciutto or grilled chicken for a heartier option.
- Make it Spicy: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a kick.
Make Ahead Tips:
- Prep everything (slice the mozzarella, tomatoes, and buns) ahead of time. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the buns
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Layer the mozzarella
Add a slice of fresh mozzarella to each bottom bun.
Step 3: Add the tomatoes
Place a slice of ripe tomato on top of the mozzarella. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add the basil and drizzle balsamic glaze
Top each tomato slice with a fresh basil leaf and drizzle a little balsamic glaze over each slider.
Step 5: Add the top buns and brush with butter
Place the top halves of the buns on and brush with melted butter mixed with black pepper and garlic powder.
Step 6: Bake the sliders
Bake the sliders in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until the buns are golden and the cheese is slightly melted.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Serve the Caprese sliders warm, with extra balsamic glaze on the side if desired.
Leftovers and Storage Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to warm them up without making them soggy.
Conclusion:
Caprese Sliders are a simple, fresh, and flavorful way to impress your family or guests. They’re easy to customize and always a crowd-pleaser. Try making them for your next gathering or even a quick family dinner! I’d love to hear how they turn out for you, so leave a comment below with your experience or any questions. 😊