Sub in a Tub Sliders

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or Italian sausage), freshly ground for optimal flavor
• 1 cup cooked pulled pork (or shredded chicken), ideally slow-cooked for tenderness
• 1 cup Italian beef (sliced thin), marinated for enhanced taste
• 1 package (12-count) slider buns (homemade preferred for freshness)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, high-moisture for a gooey texture
• 1/2 cup sliced pepperoncini peppers, for a zesty kick
• 2 tablespoons butter, unsalted for control over saltiness
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, sifted to avoid lumps
• 1 cup milk, whole or 2% for creaminess
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, preferably sharp for robust flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste, adjust based on your preference

Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter until bubbly. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste, known as a roux.
2. Add the milk gradually, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes, and reaches a velvety consistency.
3. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, ensuring there are no clumps. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or Italian sausage until fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking. Drain excess fat to keep the sliders from being greasy.
5. Add the cooked pulled pork and slices of Italian beef to the skillet. Heat through for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine, creating a flavorful meat mixture.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly.
7. Layer the meat mixture evenly over the bottom buns, followed by the mozzarella cheese and generously sprinkle the sliced pepperoncini peppers for that tangy flavor.
8. Drizzle the cheese sauce over the top of the meat and cheese layers, ensuring it seeps into the sliders for maximum flavor. Finally, place the top halves of the buns over the sliders, covering them completely.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly crisp.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before cutting into individual sliders. Serve warm with additional cheese sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the experience.