Get ready for a fun and tasty treat with these Game Day Meatball Sliders! Juicy meatballs are nestled in soft rolls and topped with gooey cheese and zesty sauce. Perfect for sharing!
These sliders are like mini party sandwiches that everyone loves. I like to serve them with extra napkins—because you know things can get a little messy! 😄 Enjoy the cheers and delicious bites!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives these sliders great flavor and texture. You can mix it with ground pork for extra moisture, or go for ground turkey for a lighter option. For a vegetarian take, use meatless meatballs or lentils!
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the meatball mixture. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats work well as substitutes. Gluten-free folks can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a nice nuttiness to the meatballs. If you’re short on Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor for a vegan version!
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought marinara sauce makes this recipe quick, but homemade is always a win if you have time. Try different sauces like pesto or Alfredo for a fun twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Juicy and Delicious?
Making meatballs that are moist and flavorful takes some care. Here are the steps to ensure success:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; mix just until combined to keep the meatballs tender.
- Make sure to measure your breadcrumbs and use just enough to help bind the mixture.
- Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness by cutting a meatball in half; it should be no longer pink inside.
By following these tips, you’ll have juicy, tasty meatballs every time!
Game Day Meatball Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (you can mix with ground pork if you like)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Butter (for brushing buns, optional)
- Additional parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 50 minutes to make these delightful sliders. Perfect for your big game day gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature to bake those delicious meatballs!
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is well-blended. Don’t overmix, or the meatballs may be tough!
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With clean hands, roll the mixture into small meatballs about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. You should get around 20 meatballs!
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.
5. Warm the Marinara Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, pour the marinara sauce into a saucepan and warm it over low heat. This will be delicious on your sliders!
6. Combine Meatballs and Sauce:
Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and gently toss them in the warm marinara sauce until they are well coated.
7. Prepare the Slider Buns:
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. If you like, brush the insides with melted butter and lightly toast them in the oven for a few minutes.
8. Assemble the Sliders:
On a baking sheet or ovenproof dish, arrange the bottom halves of the buns. Place one sauced meatball on each bottom bun half, and add a spoonful of extra sauce if desired.
9. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each meatball, making sure it’s nice and cheesy!
10. Melt the Cheese:
Put the assembled sliders under the broiler or back in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 3-5 minutes. Watch closely to prevent any burning!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove from the oven and place the top halves of the buns on the sliders. If you want, you can garnish with extra parsley. Serve the sliders immediately with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your game day feast!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Meatballs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-cooked meatballs work perfectly. Just warm them in the marinara sauce and proceed to assemble your sliders!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. If possible, store the meatballs and buns separately to keep them fresh longer.
Can I Freeze the Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Meatball Sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with chips, fries, or a fresh salad. For a healthier option, consider serving them with roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw!