Meatball Sliders

Short description

Meatball sliders are bite-sized sandwiches made with juicy meatballs, savory sauce, and melted cheese, all baked inside soft slider buns. They are perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or as a quick and family-friendly dinner option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare with simple ingredients.

• A crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.

• Customizable with different sauces, cheeses, or meatball varieties.

• Great for meal prepping or making ahead.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Slider buns (such as Hawaiian rolls)

• Meatballs (homemade or frozen)

• Marinara or spaghetti sauce

• Shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese

• Butter

• Garlic powder

• Italian seasoning

• Grated parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Place the bottom halves of the slider buns in a baking dish.

3. Add one meatball to each bun and spoon marinara sauce on top.

4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese over the meatballs.

5. Place the top halves of the buns on top.

6. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and parmesan cheese. Brush over the tops of the buns.

7. Cover with foil and bake for 10–12 minutes.

8. Uncover and bake an additional 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted and buns are golden brown.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 12 sliders

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use BBQ sauce instead of marinara for BBQ meatball sliders.

• Try alfredo sauce for a creamy version.

• Swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or a cheese blend.

• Use turkey, chicken, pork, or plant-based meatballs.

• Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for spice lovers.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes (covered with foil) or in the microwave until warmed through.

• To freeze, wrap sliders tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

2. Do I have to use Hawaiian rolls?

No, you can use any type of slider bun or dinner roll.

3. Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, thaw them first or bake a little longer if cooking from frozen.

4. What sauces work best?

Marinara is classic, but BBQ, alfredo, pesto, or garlic butter sauces all work well.

5. How do I prevent soggy buns?

Toast the bun bottoms lightly before assembling or avoid adding too much sauce.

6. What cheese is best?

Mozzarella is traditional, but provolone, cheddar, or a blend all taste delicious.

7. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes, assemble and cook at 350°F for about 8–10 minutes until hot and melty.

8. Are meatball sliders kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the cheesy, saucy flavors, and they’re perfectly portioned for little hands.

9. Can I double the recipe for a party?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

10. What sides go with meatball sliders?

They pair well with salad, roasted vegetables, chips, pasta salad, or coleslaw.

Conclusion

Meatball sliders are the perfect combination of flavor, convenience, and versatility. Whether you serve them as a fun appetizer or as the centerpiece of a casual dinner, these cheesy, saucy sandwiches will always be a hit. Customize them with your favorite flavors and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal

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