These Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders are bursting with flavor and are super fun to eat! Each slider is filled with tender meatballs, rich garlic, and a sprinkle of cheesy goodness, all on a soft bun.
Honestly, these sliders are perfect for a party or just a cozy night in. I love piling on the toppings—don’t forget the marinara sauce! It makes them extra tasty. 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls are a must for these sliders. If you can’t find slider buns, you can use regular hamburger buns. For a healthier option, whole wheat buns work well too!
Ground Beef: I usually go for a mix of beef and pork for more flavor. However, turkey or chicken can be good substitutes if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs, but you can use Italian-seasoned ones for an extra flavor kick. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can also substitute if you have dietary needs.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a fantastic flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a solid choice. Vegan Parmesan is great too if you want to make it dairy-free.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is best for flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder can work, but fresh is always more robust.
Marinara Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade really shines. You can also swap with barbecue sauce for a twist!
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Meatballs?
Getting tender and juicy meatballs is key! Here’s what to do:
- Don’t overmix the meatball mixture; gently combine the ingredients so they don’t become tough.
- Use a scoop to make your meatballs uniform in size for even cooking; aim for 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Check for doneness by cutting one in half; it should no longer be pink inside. A thermometer should read 160°F (70°C).
By keeping these techniques in mind, you’ll ensure your meatballs come out delicious every time! Enjoy your sliders!
Flavor-packed Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (for garlic butter topping)
- Extra grated Parmesan for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, which totals around 55 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy evening or a casual get-together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to make clean-up easier later.
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine your ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, milk, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients gently but thoroughly until everything is well combined. Remember, don’t overmix!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Now it’s time to form your meatballs! Using your hands, shape the mixture into small meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake the meatballs for about 18-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
5. Prepare the Slider Buns:
While the meatballs are baking, slice your slider buns horizontally but don’t cut all the way through—just enough so they can open like a book. Place the bottom halves of the buns on a separate baking dish.
6. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom half of the buns. This will keep everything moist and add delicious flavor!
7. Assemble the Sliders:
Next, carefully arrange the cooked meatballs evenly over the marinara sauce on the buns. Then, spoon a little more marinara sauce on top of each meatball and follow it up with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Add the Top Buns:
Now, place the top halves of the buns on your sliders. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with the minced garlic to create a garlic butter topping. Brush this mixture over the top of the buns for added flavor.
9. Bake the Sliders:
Sprinkle some additional grated Parmesan and chopped parsley over the top, then cover the sliders loosely with foil. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes to let the tops become golden and the cheese melt deliciously.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re out of the oven, cut the sliders apart and serve them warm. You can also serve them with some extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your hearty, cheesy garlic Parmesan meatball sliders!
These sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a tasty treat for dinner. Happy eating!
Can I Use Frozen Meatballs Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, pre-cooked frozen meatballs can save the day. Just bake them until heated through according to package instructions, then follow the rest of the recipe as directed.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and heat in the oven until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.
Can I Use Different Cheeses?
Yes! While mozzarella is classic, feel free to experiment with provolone, cheddar, or a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor profile.
Can I Make These Sliders Spicy?
Definitely! You can add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or choose a spicy marinara sauce to give your sliders a kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
