Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These meatball parmesan sliders are a delightful fusion of flavors, perfect for a game day snack, party appetizer, or a quick family dinner. The combination of savory meatballs, gooey mozzarella, and buttery rolls creates an irresistible treat that everyone will love. With minimal prep and cooking time, these sliders are not only easy to make but also cater to various occasions, whether it’s a casual get-together or a cozy night in.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in no time, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The mix of garlic butter, meatballs, and cheeses delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they can be served at any gathering or celebration.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids adore the fun size and cheesy goodness; they’re sure to be a hit with the little ones!
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra toppings like jalapeños or switch up the cheese to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small glass or shot glass
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking your sliders, ensuring they toast perfectly without burning.
- Small glass or shot glass: Helps create the perfect indentation in the rolls for filling with sauce and cheese.
- Pastry brush: Makes it easy to apply garlic butter evenly over the rolls for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Sliders
- 1 pkg Kings Hawaiian Rolls
- 12 cocktail Meatballs (cooked)
- 1/4 c Tomato sauce
- 1/4-1/2 c mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 c parmesan cheese
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
- 4 tbs butter
- 1 tbs italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic butter
How to Make Meatball Parmesan Sliders
Step 1: Prepare the Rolls
First, cut small, deep circles into the center of each of the Hawaiian rolls without cutting through to the bottom.
Step 2: Create Space in the Rolls
Now using your fingers or the bottom of a small glass (like a shot glass), push down the center to create a bit of a bigger space.
Step 3: Toast the Rolls
Then brush the top and inside of the rolls with garlic butter. Bake them in the oven at 400 degrees for about 4 minutes or until they are lightly toasted.
Step 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Cheese
Now, add a little bit of tomato sauce to the center of each hole followed by a small piece of mozzarella cheese into each one.
Step 5: Fill with Meatballs
Then add warmed/cooked meatballs on top and sprinkle them with parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Melt More Cheese
Add the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. Place them back in a 400 degree oven for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them; they can burn easily because of the butter.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let them cool slightly before garnishing with parsley (optional). Serve warm and enjoy your delicious meatball parmesan sliders!
How to Serve Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These meatball parmesan sliders are perfect for any gathering. Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, serving them creatively can enhance the experience.
For Game Day
- Serve with Dips: Pair these sliders with marinara or ranch for added flavor.
- Create a Slider Bar: Let guests customize their sliders with toppings like jalapeños and pickles.
As an Appetizer
- Mini Skewers: Cut the sliders in half and serve on skewers for easy bites.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top with basil or parsley to add freshness.
For Family Dinner
- Pair with Salad: A side of Caesar salad complements the richness of the sliders.
- Add Some Chips: Serve with crispy potato chips for a satisfying crunch.
For Kids’ Parties
- Serve with Fruit: Fresh fruit skewers make the meal colorful and refreshing.
- Cut into Smaller Pieces: Make mini versions of the sliders for little hands.
How to Perfect Meatball Parmesan Sliders
To ensure your meatball parmesan sliders turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Preparation is Key: Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline cooking.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the sliders while baking; they can burn quickly.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality meatballs and fresh cheese for better flavor.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add extra spices or herbs to the butter for added depth.
Best Side Dishes for Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These tasty sliders pair well with various side dishes that balance their flavors. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the Italian flavors in the sliders.
- Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sliders.
- Baked Potatoes: Simple yet filling, baked potatoes can be topped with sour cream and chives.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with savory meatballs.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring brightness to your meal.
- Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies served with hummus provide a healthy crunch alongside the rich flavors of the sliders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing meatball parmesan sliders, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to look out for.
- Skipping the garlic butter: Failing to brush the rolls with garlic butter can result in a bland flavor. Always take the time to enhance the taste with this simple step.
- Overcrowding the meatballs: Packing too many meatballs into the rolls can lead to messy sliders. Be sure to leave some space for cheese and sauce to melt properly.
- Not monitoring baking time: Leaving the sliders in the oven for too long might burn them. Keep an eye on them, especially when cheese is involved, as it melts quickly.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold meatballs can cool down your sliders quickly. Warm them up before adding them to ensure everything stays hot and delicious.
- Neglecting garnishes: Skipping parsley or other garnishes might make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds both color and flavor, making your sliders irresistible.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-friendly container.
- These can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.
Reheating Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a pan over medium heat and place the slider inside, covering it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about meatball parmesan sliders that might help you during preparation.
Can I use frozen meatballs for Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
Yes, frozen meatballs work perfectly! Just ensure they are cooked according to package instructions before adding them to the sliders.
How do I customize my Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
You can add different sauces or cheeses based on your preference. Try barbecue sauce or pepper jack cheese for a twist!
What can I serve with Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
These sliders pair well with a side salad or crispy fries. They also make great game-day snacks!
How do I prevent my sliders from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, ensure that you don’t overload each slider with sauce and let them cool slightly before serving.
Final Thoughts
These meatball parmesan sliders are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on your taste preferences, making them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe at home; you’re sure to impress your family and friends!
Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 (12 sliders) 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Meatball Parmesan Sliders. Perfect for game days, parties, or family dinners, these sliders combine savory meatballs, gooey mozzarella, and soft Hawaiian rolls into a deliciously satisfying bite. With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser effortlessly. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders are sure to impress everyone at the table. Customize them with your favorite toppings or serve them alongside dips for a fun twist. Explore the joy of easy cooking while delighting in every cheesy, meaty morsel.
Ingredients
- 1 package Kings Hawaiian Rolls
- 12 cooked cocktail meatballs
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4–1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut small circles in the center of each Hawaiian roll without cutting through.
- Use a small glass to create deeper indentations in the rolls.
- Brush garlic butter on top and inside of the rolls; bake for about 4 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add tomato sauce and a piece of mozzarella cheese into each roll.
- Place warmed meatballs on top and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Add remaining mozzarella cheese on top; bake for another 5 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sliders (100g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
