Pesto Mozzarella Sliders

Name: Pesto Mozzarella Sliders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 12 slider buns; 1 cup fresh basil pesto; 12 slices fresh mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love enjoying these Pesto Mozzarella Sliders during gatherings or a cozy night in with friends. They are a delightful combination of fresh basil pesto and creamy mozzarella, all sandwiched between soft slider buns. Preparing them is a breeze, and the flavors really complement each other wonderfully. Once you take a bite, the fragrant aroma of the pesto and gooey cheese creates an irresistible charm that keeps you coming back for more. If you want an easy yet impressive dish, these sliders are the perfect choice!

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:13:13.609Z

When I first made these Pesto Mozzarella Sliders, I was amazed by how quickly they disappeared from the table. The combination of the fresh basil and the melted mozzarella turned this simple recipe into a star dish. I learned that grilling the sliders for just a few minutes can make a world of difference in flavor, which gives them a deliciously crispy exterior.

One thing that I found helpful is to lightly toast the slider buns before assembling. This small step not only enhances the texture but also helps the buns hold up against the pesto and melted cheese. It’s such a simple tweak that elevates the entire experience and keeps the sliders from getting soggy. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Fresh and vibrant flavors of homemade pesto
Melt-in-your-mouth mozzarella cheese
Perfect for any gathering or game day
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for beginners

      

Mastering the Pesto

Homemade basil pesto elevates the flavor of these sliders significantly. To achieve the best texture, blend fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth. Adding a pinch of grated Parmesan cheese at the end will enhance the richness without overwhelming the basil's fresh taste. Remember to scrape down the sides of the food processor to ensure even mixing. If you need a nut-free version, substituting sunflower seeds will yield a similar vibrant flavor.

When preparing the pesto, be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten the flavors and prevent the basil from browning. Store any extra pesto in an airtight container, layered with a thin film of olive oil, to keep it fresh for up to a week in the fridge. This versatile condiment can also be used for pasta, sandwiches, or drizzling over roasted vegetables.

Grilling Techniques

Grilling these sliders requires careful attention to both heat and timing. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium, which is around 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures the mozzarella melts perfectly without burning the slider buns. If using an outdoor grill, consider using a cast-iron skillet to handle the sliding process, as it retains heat well and distributes it evenly. Be vigilant when grilling, as the sliders should take about 3-4 minutes per side, but keep an eye on them for that perfect golden-brown finish.

To create a deliciously crisp exterior, brush the outsides of the buns with olive oil before grilling. This not only adds flavor but also prevents sticking. If you notice the cheese starting to ooze out too quickly, reduce the heat slightly to maintain control. Additionally, using a weight or another skillet on top can help press the sliders down and ensure even melting without overcooking the buns.

Ingredients

These simple ingredients come together beautifully for the Pesto Mozzarella Sliders.

Ingredients

12 slider buns
1 cup fresh basil pesto
12 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved

Make sure to use good-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps for delightful Pesto Mozzarella Sliders.

Prep the Sliders

Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium heat. Slice the slider buns in half and spread a generous layer of basil pesto on each side.

Add Cheese

Place a slice of fresh mozzarella on the bottom half of each bun. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble and Grill

Top with the other half of the bun and brush the outsides with olive oil. Grill the sliders for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the cheese melts and the buns are golden brown.

Serve Hot

Remove from the grill and serve immediately, optionally topped with halved cherry tomatoes.

Enjoy your sliders fresh off the grill for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your sliders by adding different toppings like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Pesto Mozzarella Sliders can be enhanced with various toppings to suit different tastes. For a burst of freshness, try adding sliced avocado or arugula. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, drizzle some balsamic glaze over the top. To create a beautiful presentation, arrange the sliders on a platter with a side of cherry tomatoes, fresh basil sprigs, or even a small bowl of extra pesto for dipping. This not only adds color but also encourages guests to customize their bites.

If you plan to serve these sliders during a party or game day, consider doubling the recipe. They are incredibly easy to prepare in larger batches, and you can hold them in a warm oven at about 200°F (93°C) until ready to serve. Just keep in mind that the slider buns might get a bit softer, so grilling them at the last moment always yields the best texture.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these sliders in advance, consider assembling the sliders but not grilling them until serving time. You can store the prepared buns with pesto and cheese in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to infuse while keeping the texture intact. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent the buns from drying out.

If you have leftovers, they can also be kept in an airtight container and stored in the fridge for a couple of days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can lead to soggy buns and uneven melting of the cheese.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pesto?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and still provides wonderful flavor.

→ How can I make these sliders vegetarian?

These sliders are already vegetarian! You can serve them as is or with additional veggies.

→ Can I prepare these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders in advance and grill them just before serving for the best results.

→ What other cheese can I use?

You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different twist.