Crispy, buttery rolls give way to juicy, savory meatballs and a blanket of melted mozzarella, all infused with the pungent aroma of garlic and parmesan. These Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders are an explosion of flavor in every bite, perfectly balancing textures and tastes for an irresistible experience. The richness of the meat is cut by the tang of marinara, while the garlic butter adds a layer of aromatic complexity.
This recipe works so well because of its simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature. Browning the meatballs before baking ensures a deeper, more satisfying flavor, while the generous amount of cheese binds everything together in gooey perfection. The garlic parmesan butter takes these sliders from ordinary to extraordinary, adding a luxurious finish that elevates the entire dish. These are perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a game day gathering, or any occasion where you need a quick and easy appetizer that everyone will love.
Why you’ll love this Garlic Parmesan Meatball Slider Perfection with Meatball Sliders Recipe
- These meatball sliders are incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- The combination of savory meatballs, gooey cheese, and fragrant garlic butter is simply irresistible.
- They’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, ideal for parties, game days, or movie nights.
- The recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences; customize the meat and seasonings to your liking.
- This meatball sliders recipe is a fun and satisfying alternative to traditional meatball subs.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious reheated.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 (12-count) package sweet Hawaiian rolls
- 1 pound ground beef, or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce, divided
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
How to make Garlic Parmesan Meatball Slider Perfection
Step 1: Prepare the meatballs.
Meatball sliders recipe makes every moment feel sunny. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
Step 2: Form and brown the meatballs.
Form the meat mixture into 24 small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. They don’t need to be fully cooked at this point. Chef’s Tip: Use a small cookie scoop for uniform meatball sizes.
Step 3: Assemble the sliders.
Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the top and bottom sections together as a slab. Place the bottom section of the rolls in a baking dish. Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the rolls.
Step 4: Add meatballs, cheese, and sauce.
Arrange the browned meatballs evenly over the marinara sauce. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/2 cup of marinara sauce.
Step 5: Add top buns and garlic butter.
Place the top section of the rolls over the cheese and meatballs. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, and parsley. Brush the garlic parmesan butter evenly over the top of the rolls. Parmesan cheese adds a delightful salty and savory element to the topping.
Step 6: Bake and serve.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rolls are golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing into individual sliders and serving. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; this will result in tough meatballs.
- Browning the meatballs before baking adds depth of flavor.
- Use good-quality marinara sauce for the best taste.
- Monitor the sliders closely while baking to prevent the rolls from burning.
Serving Suggestions
These Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides, such as a simple green salad, coleslaw, or potato chips. For a more substantial meal, serve them with a side of pasta or roasted vegetables. They can be served as an appetizer or a main course.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the rolls may become slightly soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, you can freeze these sliders. Assemble them completely, but do not bake. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
Can I use pre-made meatballs?
Yes, you can use pre-made frozen meatballs for a quicker option. Just thaw them completely before assembling the sliders.
Can I add spice to these sliders?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the garlic parmesan butter for a spicier kick.
These Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders are a guaranteed hit, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures in a convenient and easy-to-make package. The savory meatballs, gooey cheese, and fragrant garlic butter create an irresistible combination that will leave everyone wanting more. Give this meatball sliders recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Garlic Parmesan Meatball Slider Perfection
These pull-apart meatball sliders are an absolute crowd-pleaser! Soft, buttery rolls are loaded with juicy, flavorful meatballs, smothered in melted mozzarella cheese, and then brushed with a delectable garlic parmesan butter. The perfect appetizer or quick weeknight meal, these sliders are incredibly easy to make and even easier to devour. The combination of savory meatballs, gooey cheese, and fragrant garlic butter is simply irresistible. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite! Whether you are hosting a party, game day, or a movie night, these sliders are always a hit!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders 1x
Ingredients
- 1 (12-count) package sweet Hawaiian rolls
- 1 pound ground beef, or ground turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce, divided
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the meat mixture into 24 small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter). In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. They don't need to be fully cooked at this point.
- Slice the Hawaiian rolls horizontally, keeping the top and bottom sections together as a slab. Place the bottom section of the rolls in a baking dish. Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the rolls.
- Arrange the browned meatballs evenly over the marinara sauce. Top with the shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining 1/2 cup of marinara sauce.
- Place the top section of the rolls over the cheese and meatballs. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, and parsley. Brush the garlic parmesan butter evenly over the top of the rolls.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rolls are golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before slicing into individual sliders and serving. Enjoy!
Notes
For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or the garlic parmesan butter. You can also use pre-made frozen meatballs for a quicker option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg