Get ready for a tasty treat with these Game Day Meatball Sliders! Juicy meatballs are nestled in soft slider buns, covered with gooey cheese and your favorite sauce. Perfect for gatherings!
You can stack them high and watch everyone enjoy their first bite. I love serving these with a side of chips for crunch. Trust me, they won’t last long at any party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for ground beef for a classic flavor, but mixing in ground pork adds extra juiciness. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option!
Breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs work well, but you can use panko for a crunchier texture. A gluten-free brand is great if you have dietary needs!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds superb flavor, but you can substitute it with Romano or Pecorino cheese if you prefer something sharper.
Sauce: Marinara sauce is traditional, but BBQ sauce or a spicy arrabbiata can give a different twist. Homemade sauce is always a hit if you have time!
Slider Buns: While I love soft slider buns, you can use any roll you like. Hawaiian rolls add a nice sweetness!
How Do I Get My Meatballs Just Right?
Getting juicy meatballs is key for these sliders. Here are some tips:
- Mix the ingredients gently; over-mixing can make them tough.
- You want to brown the meatballs first. This adds flavor but make sure not to cook them through completely.
- Simmering them in sauce afterward locks in moisture and flavor!
Using these tips will ensure you have delicious, tender meatballs that everyone will love. Enjoy your sliders!
How to Make Game Day Meatball Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For Assembly:
- 12 slider buns
- 8 oz sliced provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Butter (optional, for toasting buns)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time. You’ll be able to serve up these amazing meatball sliders in no time, making them perfect for parties and game days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together gently until just combined – be careful not to overmix!
2. Form Meatballs:
Take a portion of the meat mixture and shape it into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter. You should end up with approximately 12 meatballs. Set them aside for now.
3. Cook Meatballs:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry about cooking them all the way through at this point, just get a nice golden color! Remove from heat.
4. Simmer in Sauce:
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the browned meatballs. Turn the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through.
5. Prepare Buns:
While the meatballs are simmering, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you’d like, you can spread a little butter on the insides of the slider buns and place them on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are lightly golden.
6. Assemble Sliders:
Take the toasted slider buns and place one meatball on the bottom half of each bun. Spoon some of the delicious marinara sauce from the skillet over each meatball, then add a slice of provolone or mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Melt Cheese:
Place the assembled sliders on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
Once they’re ready, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy with some extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping, and get ready for everyone to love these tasty sliders!
These Game Day Meatball Sliders are sure to be a hit at your next gathering, offering cheesy, savory goodness in each bite!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked Meatballs?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked meatballs. Just heat them in the marinara sauce for about 10 minutes to ensure they’re warmed through before assembling your sliders.
What Can I Substitute for the Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of provolone or mozzarella, feel free to use any cheese you love! Cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a fun twist to your sliders.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I Make the Meatballs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance! Just shape them and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to a day or freeze them for later. If frozen, thaw completely before cooking. This will save you time on game day!