Easy Meatball Sliders

These easy meatball sliders are the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer, snack, or quick dinner option. Made with soft Hawaiian rolls, juicy meatballs, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, they’re packed with flavor and incredibly simple to prepare. Whether for game day, a party, or a family dinner, these sliders will be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – Made with pre-cooked or homemade meatballs for minimal effort.
• Cheesy and flavorful – Gooey melted cheese and marinara sauce make every bite delicious.
• Perfect for gatherings – Great for game days, potlucks, or family dinners.
• Customizable – Use different cheeses, sauces, or meatball flavors.
• Kid-friendly – A fun and tasty meal that kids will love!

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Hawaiian rolls or slider buns
• Cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
• Marinara sauce
• Mozzarella or provolone cheese
• Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Butter (melted)
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Rolls: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally and place the bottom half in the baking dish.
3. Assemble the Sliders: Spoon marinara sauce over the rolls, then place one meatball on each roll. Add more marinara and top with mozzarella cheese.
4. Add the Top Layer: Place the top half of the rolls over the meatballs.
5. Brush with Butter: Mix melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, then brush over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 sliders
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for heat.
• BBQ Twist: Swap marinara for BBQ sauce and use cheddar cheese.
• Pesto Flavor: Spread pesto on the rolls before adding the meatballs.
• Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce wraps instead of rolls.
• Different Meats: Try turkey, chicken, or plant-based meatballs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
• Freezing: Assemble the sliders (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

What type of meatballs work best?

Beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meatballs all work well.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes! Just thaw them first or bake a little longer if using frozen.

Can I use a different type of roll?

Yes! Any soft dinner roll or brioche bun works great.

How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?

Lightly toasting the bottom half of the rolls before assembling can help prevent sogginess.

Can I make these without cheese?

Absolutely! They’ll still be delicious with just the sauce and meatballs.

What’s the best cheese for sliders?

Mozzarella, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses melt beautifully.

How do I make them crispier?

Bake uncovered for the last few minutes to make the tops golden and crisp.

Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, checking for doneness.

What sides go well with meatball sliders?

Serve with a side salad, roasted veggies, potato wedges, or garlic bread.

Conclusion

These easy meatball sliders are the ultimate comfort food—cheesy, saucy, and packed with flavor. Whether for a party, family meal, or casual gathering, they’re quick to make and always a crowd favorite. Try them with different fillings and enjoy the perfect bite-sized sandwich!

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