These Game Day Meatball Sliders are a tasty treat perfect for any gathering! Juicy meatballs are nestled in soft rolls, topped with gooey cheese and a zesty sauce to make them extra special.
They’re easy to grab and eat, making them a hit during the big game. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving them with a side of marinara for dipping—it’s a total game changer!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: I often use a blend of beef and pork for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a lean option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too!
Parmesan cheese: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can give a similar cheesy taste without the milk.
Fresh parsley: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish! If you don’t have parsley, you can try basil or even dried herbs as a substitute—just use less as dried herbs are more potent.
Slider buns: I love using soft dinner rolls for their pillowy texture. If you’re gluten-free, seek out gluten-free slider buns or use lettuce wraps for a fresh twist.
Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella is melty perfection! If you want something sharper, try provolone or even cheddar for a twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Juicy?
Keeping meatballs juicy is all about the right mix and technique! Here are some tips to ensure your meatballs are tender and full of flavor:
- Do not overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until they’re incorporated. This means fewer tough meatballs!
- Moisture is key: Adding milk keeps the mixture moist, so don’t skip that step!
- Don’t skip browning: Baking the meatballs allows for even cooking. For extra flavor, you can also sear them in a skillet before baking.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer. They should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef or 165°F (74°C) for turkey/chicken.
Game Day Meatball Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 2 cups marinara or spaghetti sauce
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Optional: extra grated Parmesan for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients, 20 minutes to bake the meatballs, and an additional 10 minutes for assembly and toasting the sliders in the oven. In total, you should spend approximately 40 minutes to have delicious sliders ready for game day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be hot and ready for your meatballs to bake!
2. Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Be gentle as you mix—combine everything until just mixed to keep them tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
With your hands, take small portions of the meat mixture and roll them into balls about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Set them aside as you form them all.
4. Bake the Meatballs:
Place the shaped meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
5. Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat. This will warm it up and make it nice and cozy for the meatballs later!
6. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Once the meatballs are cooked, transfer them carefully to the saucepan with the marinara sauce. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
7. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns horizontally. On the bottom half of each bun, spread a spoonful of marinara sauce. Then place a meatball on top, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese.
8. Top and Bake:
Close the sliders with the top half of the buns. If you like, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. Arrange the sliders on a baking tray and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and the buns are slightly toasted.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the sliders out of the oven and serve them warm. You can offer extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy these delicious Game Day Meatball Sliders with your friends and family!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option for these sliders. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly milder, so you might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the taste.
How Do I Reheat Leftover Sliders?
To reheat leftover sliders, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quick option, just be sure to cover them to prevent dryness.
Can I Freeze Meatballs for Later Use?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked meatballs! After baking, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What Should I Serve with these Sliders?
These sliders pair perfectly with a side of crispy potato wedges, a fresh salad, or some crunchy pickles. For game day, consider serving with nachos or chips for that festive vibe!
