Sizzling Smoked Sausage Sliders with Zesty Pimiento Cheese
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these Sizzling Smoked Sausage Sliders! Perfect for a laid-back gathering or a game day treat, these sliders combine the smoky flavor of reduced-fat sausage with a zesty pimiento cheese spread. Imagine the satisfying crunch of crispy fried onions and the subtle heat from chipotle pepper sauce, all encapsulated in soft deli mini-sub rolls. This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a hit at any event.
Before you jump into creating these mouthwatering sliders, let me share a few tips for culinary success. Start by opting for a quality reduced-fat smoked sausage, like a Bratwurst or Kielbasa, to maintain a flavorful balance without overwhelming the palette. The pimiento cheese spread adds a creamy, tangy layer, so choose a brand that packs a punch in flavor. Don't skip the sweet pepper bruschetta; it adds a hint of sweetness, making each bite luscious yet well-balanced.
Preheat your oven, line your baking sheet with nonstick foil, and get ready for the magic to unfold. The double-fold seal method creates a mini steam oven, so your sliders come out warm, melty, and perfectly soft. And for a finishing touch, sprinkle those crispy fried onions generously — they provide an irresistible texture contrast that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- 13 oz reduced-fat smoked sausage: Imparts a smoky flavor while keeping it light.
- 1 (12-oz) pack Deli mini-sub rolls: The perfect soft cushion for our hearty filling.
- ¾ cup pimiento cheese spread: Provides a creamy zest, balancing the smoky sausage.
- ¼ cup sweet pepper bruschetta topping: Adds a sweet and tangy punch to the mix.
- 2 teaspoons chipotle pepper sauce: Brings a slow-burning heat that complements the cheese.
- ¾ cup crispy fried onions: Offers a satisfying crunch to round off the texture.
- Nonstick aluminum foil: Ensures easy baking and clean-up.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with nonstick aluminum foil.
- Cook Sausage: Split the sausage in half lengthwise and cook as per package instructions until nicely browned. Afterwards, cut it into 3-inch-long pieces for perfect fitting in the rolls.
- Assemble Sliders: Spread pimiento cheese evenly over the bottom halves of the mini-sub rolls and place them on the prepared foil.
- Add Sausage and Toppings: Arrange the sausage pieces over the cheese. Spoon the sweet pepper bruschetta and drizzle with chipotle pepper sauce to taste.
- Seal and Bake: Top with the upper halves of the rolls. Cover sliders with a second sheet of foil, ensuring you double-fold all edges to seal a pouch. Bake for 6–7 minutes until the cheese is melty and everything is heated through.
- Final Touch: Carefully remove the tops of the rolls, sprinkle with crispy fried onions for that crave-worthy crunch, then restore the tops.
- Serve: Serve immediately and watch them disappear!
Tips for Troubleshooting
- Too Thick? If your sausage or cheese gets too thick, thin it with a splash of milk or broth gently before spreading.
- Not Spicy Enough? For more heat, consider adding an extra teaspoon of chipotle sauce or sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes sparingly.
- Cheese Not Melting? Ensure your oven is preheated properly. Try an extra minute, checking to avoid overheating the bread.
- Onions Falling Off? Drizzle a light layer of mayonnaise or mustard on the upper roll halves to act as a glue before adding the onions.
Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe
- Side Dishes: A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the richness of these sliders.
- Beverages: A crisp, cold lager or a tangy lemonade would enhance the smoky and spicy flavors.
- Desserts: Finish off with a light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.
How to Store Properly
- For Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container; they will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- For Freezing: It's best to freeze the sausages separately. When ready, thaw overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid freezing the bread as it may become soggy upon thawing.
FAQs
- Can I use regular sausage? Yes, but the calorie count will increase, and you might need to adjust the spices to avoid overpowering flavors.
- What if I can't find pimiento cheese spread? Substitute with a blend of sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and chopped pimientos for a homemade version.
- Can these sliders be prepared in advance? Prepare the filling and rolls separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
- Is gluten-free bread an option? Absolutely! Just ensure it's sturdy enough to hold the toppings without getting soggy.
