Mini Meatball Sliders are a delightful twist on classic sliders that everyone loves. These delicious treats pack rich flavors into bite-sized portions, making them perfect for parties, game day, or a cozy family dinner. Each slider features a juicy meatball topped with marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella, all nestled in soft, warm buns. It’s hard to resist their charm, and that’s why they are a hit among food lovers of all ages.
Why make this recipe
This recipe is incredibly easy and beginner-friendly, perfect for anyone looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple and easy-to-find ingredients, it’s a homemade option that beats store-bought alternatives every time. Plus, these sliders are family-friendly, making them a great choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. And the best part? They are budget-friendly, too!
What makes Mini Meatball Sliders special
Mini Meatball Sliders stand out because they combine unique flavors and textures. The juicy meatballs sitting on a bed of rich marinara bring warmth and satisfaction. The fresh mozzarella melts beautifully over the top, adding creaminess to each bite. These sliders carry the essence of homemade comfort food, making them a cherished recipe. They’re versatile enough to fit into a casual gathering or a festive party.
Is Mini Meatball Sliders healthy
Mini Meatball Sliders can be a balanced meal option when enjoyed in moderation. The recipe includes natural ingredients like ground beef, fresh herbs, and whole slider buns. However, as with all comfort foods, being mindful of portion sizes is essential. These sliders offer protein from the beef and dairy from the mozzarella but should be enjoyed as a treat rather than an everyday meal.
How to make Mini Meatball Sliders
Making Mini Meatball Sliders is a stress-free process. The entire recipe is straightforward, allowing you to whip up delicious sliders in no time. You will bake flavorful meatballs, assemble everything in a baking dish, and let the oven do the work. It takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make Mini Meatball Sliders:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 0.25 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 1.5 cups marinara sauce
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 12 small meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter.
- Bake meatballs for 15–18 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place one meatball on each bun, spoon marinara sauce over the top, and layer with mozzarella slices.
- Add the top buns and brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
How to serve Mini Meatball Sliders
Mini Meatball Sliders are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a casual meal, enjoy them alongside a simple salad or fresh veggies. You could pair them with crispy fries for a more indulgent option. They make an excellent appetizer for parties, or you can serve them for lunch or a snack. Just share them among family and friends for a fun and interactive eating experience.
Best occasions to make Mini Meatball Sliders
These sliders are ideal for numerous occasions. They shine at weeknight meals when you need something quick and satisfying. They’re also great for family gatherings, offering everyone a fun way to enjoy hearty flavors. Planning a game day watch party? These sliders are a crowd-pleaser. They can also work perfectly for meal prep, ensuring delicious lunches are ready when you need them.
How to store Mini Meatball Sliders
Storing Mini Meatball Sliders is easy. If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn. When properly stored, they will stay fresh and delicious for a month.
Can you make Mini Meatball Sliders ahead of time
Yes, you can prepare Mini Meatball Sliders ahead of time. You can cook the meatballs and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the sliders. Alternatively, you can fully assemble the sliders and keep them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve. To reheat, cover with foil to keep them moist, and bake until heated through.
Tips to make Mini Meatball Sliders
To make the best Mini Meatball Sliders, use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Make sure not to overmix the meatball mixture; gently combine it to keep the meatballs tender. If you want extra flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese to the meat mixture. Always keep an eye on cooking times to ensure perfect doneness.
Print
Mini Meatball Sliders
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Delicious bite-sized sliders featuring juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, perfect for parties and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 0.25 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- 1.5 cups marinara sauce
- 12 slider buns or Hawaiian rolls
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until just combined.
- Form the mixture into 12 small meatballs, about 1½ inches in diameter.
- Bake meatballs for 15–18 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Slice slider buns in half horizontally and place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Place one meatball on each bun, spoon marinara sauce over the top, and layer with mozzarella slices.
- Add the top buns and brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Notes
For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Variation
There are many fun variations to explore with Mini Meatball Sliders. For a healthier twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also switch out the marinara for barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. For those needing gluten-free options, use gluten-free buns and breadcrumbs. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
FAQs
1. How long can I store Mini Meatball Sliders in the fridge?
Mini Meatball Sliders can be stored in the fridge for 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.
2. Can I use chicken or turkey for Mini Meatball Sliders?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works well for lighter sliders. Just ensure to monitor baking times for doneness.
3. Can I prepare Mini Meatball Sliders in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs ahead of time or even assemble the sliders and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
