Classic Mini Meatball Sliders: Savory, Juicy, and Ready in 30 Minutes

A Classic Bite-Sized Slider Recipe with Savory, Juicy Meatballs

These Mini Meatball Sliders are quick, easy, and full of flavor. Ready in 30 minutes, they feature juicy meatballs, melty cheese, and soft buns, making them perfect for game days, gatherings, or parties. An instant crowd-pleaser!

Mini Meatball Sliders Recipe | Quick & Easy 30-Minute Meal Sliders Recipe for Any Occasion

DifficultyEasy

Servings12 Sliders

Prep time10 minutes

Cook time20 minutes

Total time30 minutes

Mini Meatball Sliders Recipe

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1/2 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp milk

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup marinara sauce , (your favorite jar!)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Sliders:

  • 12 slider buns (Hawaiian rolls or brioche)
  • 6 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried parsley

Let's Get Cooking!

Instructions

  • 1

    Prepare the Meatballs:

    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
    2. Add the egg and milk, then mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
    3. Roll the mixture into 12 equal-sized meatballs.
  • 2

    Cook the Meatballs:

    1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    2. Add the meatballs and sear for 2 minutes per side, until browned.
    3. Pour in the marinara sauce, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • 3

    Assemble the Sliders:

    1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
    3. Place one meatball on each bun, top with a spoonful of marinara sauce, and add a half slice of cheese on top.
    4. Cover with the top half of the buns.
  • 4

    Bake the Sliders:

    1. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley.
    2. Brush the tops of the sliders with the butter mixture.
    3. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 10 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, until the tops are golden brown.
  • 5

    Serve & Enjoy:

    • Let cool slightly before serving.
    • Pair with extra marinara sauce for dipping!

Equipment

Recipe Notes & Variations

Recipe Notes

✔ Use a Meat Blend – A mix of ground beef and pork makes the meatballs juicier and more flavorful.
✔ Don’t Overmix – Overmixing the meatball ingredients can make them tough. Mix just until combined.
✔ Sear for Maximum Flavor – Browning the meatballs before simmering enhances the texture and adds a deeper flavor.
✔ Soft vs. Crispy Buns –

  • For softer sliders, cover with foil while baking.
  • For a crispier top, bake uncovered for the last few minutes.

✔ Make-Ahead Option –

  • Meatballs can be made and stored in the fridge for 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Assembled sliders can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

Meat & Protein Alternatives

✔ Turkey or Chicken Sliders – Swap out beef and pork for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
✔ Plant-Based Option – Use vegan meat substitutes like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger, or try lentil or chickpea meatballs.
✔ Gluten-Free Meatballs – Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour, oat flour, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Cheese Variations

✔ Classic Mozzarella or Provolone – Mild and melty, perfect for traditional meatball sliders.
✔ Sharp Cheddar – Adds a bolder, tangier kick.
✔ Pepper Jack – For a spicy twist.
✔ Swiss or Gruyère – Gives a creamy, nutty flavor.
✔ Dairy-Free – Use vegan cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

Sauce Alternatives

✔ Spicy Marinara – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
✔ Pesto Sauce – Swap marinara for basil pesto for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
✔ BBQ Meatball Sliders – Replace marinara with BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet variation.
✔ Buffalo Meatball Sliders – Toss the meatballs in buffalo sauce and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Bun & Bread Variations

✔ Hawaiian Rolls – Soft, slightly sweet, and perfect for these sliders.
✔ Brioche Buns – Buttery and rich for a more indulgent bite.
✔ Pretzel Buns – Adds a chewy, salty contrast.
✔ Garlic Bread Sliders – Brush buns with garlic butter and toast for extra flavor.
✔ Gluten-Free Rolls – Use your favorite gluten-free slider buns.

Fun & Unique Variations

✔ Meatball Parm Sliders – Add an extra layer of Parmesan cheese and bake until bubbly.
✔ Caprese Meatball Sliders – Top with fresh basil and sliced cherry tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
✔ Tex-Mex Meatball Sliders – Use chipotle-seasoned meatballs, avocado, and jalapeños.
✔ Breakfast Meatball Sliders – Serve with fried eggs and hollandaise sauce for a brunch-inspired version.
✔ Asian-Inspired Sliders – Use teriyaki-glazed meatballs and top with pickled slaw and sesame seeds.

Nutrition

Calories290
Carbohydrates28g
Cholesterol45mg
Fat14g
Fiber2g
Protein16g
Saturated Fat7g
Sodium520mg
Sugar5g
Unsaturated Fat5g

The History & Evolution of Sliders

Sliders have been around for decades, originally popularized by White Castle in the 1920s. These small, flavorful sandwiches were designed for quick and affordable meals, making them a staple in American fast food culture. While classic sliders feature thin beef patties, today’s sliders have evolved into a variety of bite-sized sandwiches, including chicken, pork, and even vegetarian options.

One of the most beloved variations is the meatball slider—a fusion of Italian flavors and classic American comfort food. Inspired by meatball subs, this recipe combines tender, juicy meatballs with rich marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, all packed into a soft, golden bun.

The Art of Cooking the Perfect Meatball for Sliders

The secret to tender, juicy meatballs lies in three key elements:

✔ The right meat blend – A mix of ground beef and pork ensures flavor and moisture.
✔ Proper seasoning – A combination of garlic, Italian herbs, and Parmesan cheese brings out bold flavors.
✔ Moisture retention – Using breadcrumbs and milk helps keep the meatballs soft and juicy.

These meatballs are quickly seared for a crispy exterior before being simmered in a rich marinara sauce, creating a perfectly juicy and flavorful bite in every slider sandwich.

Why These Mini Meatball Sliders Are Special

✔ Quick & Easy: This 30-minute meal recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute parties.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a Super Bowl party, holiday gathering, or casual dinner, these sliders are always a hit.
✔ Melty Cheese & Savory Sauce: The combination of gooey mozzarella and marinara sauce makes every bite irresistible.
✔ Customizable: Swap out the protein, try different cheeses, or add spicy elements to make these sliders unique to your taste.

What Occasions Are These Sliders Perfect For?

  • Game Day Snacks – These bite-sized sandwiches are great for sharing while watching sports.
  • Family Dinner Night – A kid-friendly meal that adults will love too.
  • Holiday Gatherings & Parties – Easy to prep, serve, and eat while mingling.
  • Meal Prep – Make the meatballs ahead of time for quick assembly later.

Spatula Daddy

Hi! 👋 I’m Michael, here to bring bold flavors and real-world cooking know-how straight to your table!

Tags