These Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders are mini sandwiches filled with juicy meatballs, rich garlic flavor, and yummy Parmesan cheese. Perfect for any party or a cozy night in!
Honestly, who can resist a cute slider? They’re like little bites of happiness! I love serving them with toothpicks for fun—guaranteed smiles all around! 😄
Making these sliders is super easy! I just whip up the meatballs, cook them, and then stack them on soft buns. It’s a tasty treat that always disappears fast at my house!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using a mix of beef and pork for added flavor, but you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just be careful not to overcook it!
Parmesan Cheese: Fresh grated Parmesan is the best for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free twist.
Slider Buns: Soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls are great for this recipe. If you want a whole-grain option, try whole wheat slider buns! Gluten-free buns work too!
Marinara Sauce: Homemade is wonderful, but store-bought works perfectly here. If you’re looking for a kick, add red pepper flakes to your marinara for some heat!
How Do I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Tender?
Getting tender meatballs can be tricky! Here are some tips:
- Mix the ingredients gently; overcooking can make them tough.
- Use breadcrumbs and milk to keep them moist. They act as a binding agent and trap moisture.
- Roll them to about 1 inch in size to ensure they cook evenly.
- Always let them rest for a minute after baking; this helps them hold onto their juices!
How Do I Make the Best Garlic Butter?
The garlic butter takes your sliders to the next level!
- Softened butter mixes well with minced garlic. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to blend.
- Brush it on the bun tops before baking for a beautiful, golden finish.
- You can add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor!
These Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders are perfect for any gathering, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they’re always a hit! Enjoy!
Flavor-packed Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sliders:
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls work well)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Garlic Butter:
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 garlic clove, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 25 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for baking, making the total time roughly 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing for easy cleanup later.
2. Make the Meatball Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, milk, minced garlic, chopped parsley, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently until just combined—remember not to overmix, as this keeps the meatballs tender and juicy!
3. Form the Meatballs:
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, roughly 1 to 1 1/4 inch in diameter, and place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space in between.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and nicely browned.
5. Prepare Garlic Butter:
While the meatballs are baking, mix the melted butter with the minced garlic in a small bowl. This will add an extra layer of deliciousness!
6. Get the Buns Ready:
Once the meatballs are nearly done, slice your slider buns horizontally while keeping them connected if possible. This helps with assembling later!
7. Brush Garlic Butter on Buns:
Generously brush the tops of the buns with the garlic butter mixture to make them extra flavorful and golden.
8. Add Marinara Sauce:
Spread a layer of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom halves of the buns. You can adjust the amount based on how saucy you want them!
9. Add the Meatballs:
Place a baked meatball on each bun bottom, giving every slider a hearty filling.
10. Top with Mozzarella:
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over each meatball. Cheese lovers rejoice!
11. Broil for Cheese Melting:
Carefully place the slider tray or individual sliders under the broiler for 2-4 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
12. Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a fresh finish. Place the top halves of the buns over the sliders and get ready to serve warm.
13. Enjoy!
Dig into these rich, gooey, and oh-so-delicious Garlic Parmesan Meatball Sliders with friends or family at your next gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be mindful of cooking times, as lean meats may require less baking time.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the meatballs in advance! Just shape them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the raw meatballs in a single layer and then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can add sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or even a slice of avocado for extra flavor. Just make sure not to overload them so they stay easy to eat!
