Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These meatball parmesan sliders are the perfect combination of savory meatballs, gooey cheese, and buttery rolls, making them an ideal choice for game nights, family gatherings, or casual dinners. Their easy preparation and delicious flavors will make them a standout dish on any occasion. Plus, they are great for both adults and kids alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These sliders can be made in under 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute meal.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of garlic butter, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or snack; they fit any meal plan.
- Easy Cleanup: With minimal cookware required, you’ll spend less time cleaning up afterward.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties or gatherings; these sliders are sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe for meatball parmesan sliders, gather your tools and equipment to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small glass (for shaping)
- Brush (for applying garlic butter)
- Knife (for cutting rolls)
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking the sliders and catches any drips.
- Small glass: Perfect for creating uniform holes in the rolls without damaging them.
- Brush: Ensures even distribution of garlic butter over the rolls for optimal 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.
- 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 2: Add Garlic Butter
- Then brush the top and inside of the rolls with the garlic butter.
- Bake them in the oven at 400 degrees for about 4 minutes or until they are lightly toasted.
Step 3: Assemble the Sliders
- Now, add a little bit of tomato sauce to the center of each hole and add a small piece of mozzarella cheese into each one.
- Then add the warmed/cooked meatballs and sprinkle them with parmesan cheese.
- Next, add the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake Again
- 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 5: Garnish and Serve
- Let them cool slightly before garnishing with parsley (optional) and enjoy your delicious meatball parmesan sliders!
How to Serve Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These meatball parmesan sliders are perfect for various occasions. Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a casual get-together, serving them with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience.
Pair with Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: A classic choice that complements the flavors of the meatballs and cheese.
- Ranch Dressing: Offers a creamy contrast that appeals to many taste buds.
- Garlic Aioli: Adds a gourmet touch with its rich garlic flavor.
Add Fresh Sides
- Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens balances the richness of the sliders.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tang of coleslaw provide a great texture contrast.
- Pickles: Tangy pickles can cut through the heaviness, adding brightness to your meal.
Serve with Drinks
- Soda or Sparkling Water: Light, fizzy drinks help cleanse the palate between bites.
- Beer: Pairing sliders with a cold beer can enhance the flavor experience.
How to Perfect Meatball Parmesan Sliders
To ensure your meatball parmesan sliders turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh rolls and quality cheeses elevate the overall flavor of your sliders.
- Don’t Overfill: Keep ingredients balanced; too much filling can make them messy and hard to eat.
- Toast Rolls Well: Properly toasting adds texture and prevents sogginess from sauces.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on them while baking; they can burn quickly due to the butter.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust Italian seasoning based on your preference for bold flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Meatball Parmesan Sliders
For a well-rounded meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with meatball parmesan sliders.
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements Italian flavors; serve warm and buttery.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add color and nutrition.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy chips paired with zesty salsa offer a fun snacking option.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a delicious contrast to sliders.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are always a crowd-pleaser; opt for sweet potato fries for variety.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice and spices can be hearty yet healthy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Meatball Parmesan Sliders, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Skipping the Garlic Butter: Not brushing garlic butter on the rolls can lead to a lack of flavor. Always use it for a rich taste.
- Overcrowding the Rolls: Stuffing too many meatballs into the sliders can make them messy. Stick to one meatball per slider for a balanced bite.
- Not Toasting Enough: Under-toasting the rolls can result in soggy sliders. Ensure they are lightly toasted for the best texture.
- Ignoring Cheese Melting: Not keeping an eye on the cheese while it melts can lead to burnt sliders. Watch closely and remove them when just melted.
- Forgetting Garnish Options: Skipping parsley or other garnishes makes your sliders less appealing. A little garnish adds color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Wrap each slider tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes, or until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual sliders on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds. Be cautious not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat. Cover with a lid for even heating, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Meatball Parmesan Sliders:
How do I make Meatball Parmesan Sliders from scratch?
You can make meatballs using ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then proceed with the recipe as usual.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can experiment with provolone or cheddar cheese for unique flavors in your Meatball Parmesan Sliders.
What sides pair well with these sliders?
Consider serving with a fresh salad or crispy fries to complement your Meatball Parmesan Sliders.
Are Meatball Parmesan Sliders kid-friendly?
Yes! Their small size and familiar flavors make them perfect for kids and adults alike.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe typically yields around 12 sliders, making it great for parties or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
Meatball Parmesan Sliders are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different cheeses or sauces according to your taste preferences. Whether as an appetizer or a main dish, these sliders are sure to satisfy any craving!
Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 sliders 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Meatball Parmesan Sliders, a delightful fusion of savory meatballs, gooey cheese, and buttery rolls. Perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or casual dinners, these sliders are quick to prepare and sure to impress both adults and kids alike.
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 your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut small circles into the center of each Hawaiian roll without cutting through.
- Use the bottom of a small glass to create space in each roll and brush them with garlic butter.
- Bake the rolls for about 4 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese into each hole, followed by warmed meatballs and a sprinkle of parmesan.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake again for about 5 minutes until melted.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
