Meatball Sliders

Juicy, flavorful meatballs cooked to perfection in a skillet, nestled in soft slider buns, and topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This stovetop method makes the process quicker and keeps the meatballs extra moist. Perfect for parties, game day, or a family dinner!

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Yield
Makes 12 sliders.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork, or turkey or chicken)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns
• 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

1. Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the meatballs to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
3. Cook the meatballs, turning them gently every few minutes to brown all sides evenly, for about 8–10 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
4. Remove the cooked meatballs and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Slice the slider buns in half and arrange the bottom halves on a baking dish or tray.
2. Place a cooked meatball on each bun, top with a spoonful of marinara sauce, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
3. Add the top halves of the buns.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
2. Brush the butter mixture over the tops of the buns for added flavor.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Serve

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Place the assembled sliders in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are warm.
3. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve immediately.

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How the Sliders Will Look
Golden, buttery buns with melted mozzarella oozing over tender, juicy meatballs. The marinara sauce adds a vibrant red pop, making these sliders as appealing to the eyes as they are to the taste buds.

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Nutritional Information (Per Slider)
Calories: 260, Fat: 13g, Carbohydrates: 22g, Protein: 15g

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Kitchen Tips

1. Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked meatballs every time.
2. Add extra Parmesan cheese to the meatball mixture for a cheesier flavor.
3. Toast the slider buns in the oven for a crispier texture before assembling.
4. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and color.
5. Swap mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a unique flavor twist.
6. For a smoky kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the meatball mixture.
7. Keep sliders warm by covering them with foil in the oven until ready to serve.
8. Use a cookie scoop to make evenly sized meatballs.
9. Offer marinara sauce on the side for dipping sliders.
10. Leftover meatballs can be repurposed for pasta, subs, or pizza toppings.