Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These meatball parmesan sliders are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for game nights, parties, or a cozy family dinner. With their delicious combination of savory meatballs, gooey mozzarella cheese, and buttery Hawaiian rolls, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these sliders can be enjoyed by kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These sliders come together in minutes, making them a great option for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of garlic butter, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these sliders fit any occasion.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love them! They’re a fun way to get your little ones excited about dinner.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces for a personal touch.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your meatball parmesan sliders, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make cooking more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Small glass or shot glass
- Brush for butter
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for your sliders to bake, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Small glass or shot glass: Helps create the perfect indentation in the rolls for filling.
- Brush for butter: Makes applying garlic butter easy and ensures even coverage on each roll.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these delicious meatball parmesan sliders:
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.
Step 2: Create Space in the Rolls
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 3: Brush with 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 4: Add Tomato Sauce and Cheese
Now, add a little bit of tomato sauce to the center of each hole. Insert a small piece of mozzarella cheese into each one.
Step 5: Add Meatballs and Cheese
Then add the warmed/cooked meatballs. Sprinkle them with parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Bake Until Melted
Add the rest of the mozzarella cheese on top. 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 7: Cool and Garnish
Let them cool slightly before garnishing with parsley (optional) and enjoy!
Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with these tasty meatball parmesan sliders!
How to Serve Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These meatball parmesan sliders can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a casual dinner at home, serving these sliders creatively will impress your guests.
As an Appetizer
- Start the meal with these sliders as bite-sized appetizers. They are easy to pick up and perfect for sharing.
Paired with Dipping Sauces
- Serve alongside marinara or ranch dressing for dipping. This adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the overall experience.
With Fresh Salad
- Complement the sliders with a fresh garden salad. The crisp veggies provide a nice contrast to the warm, cheesy sliders.
For Game Day
- These sliders make an excellent addition to your game day spread. They are hearty enough to satisfy hungry fans while being simple to prepare.
At a Potluck
- Bring these meatball parmesan sliders to your next potluck. They are a crowd-pleaser and will disappear quickly!

How to Perfect Meatball Parmesan Sliders
Making meatball parmesan sliders is easy, but there are a few tips to elevate them even further.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mozzarella and high-quality tomato sauce will make your sliders taste amazing.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cheese while baking. Remove them as soon as it melts for the best texture.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like sliced jalapeños or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
- Experiment with Breads: Try different types of rolls, such as ciabatta or pretzel buns, for a unique twist on the classic slider.
Best Side Dishes for Meatball Parmesan Sliders
Pairing sides with meatball parmesan sliders can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: A classic side that complements the Italian flavors in the sliders.
- Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw balance out the richness of the sliders.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add heartiness and pair well with cheesy dishes.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella create a refreshing contrast.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy bites offer a fun twist alongside your sliders.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate and provide a sweet finish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrients to your meal.
- Chips and Salsa: For a casual vibe, serve tortilla chips with zesty salsa on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Meatball Parmesan Sliders, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Toasting Step: Failing to toast the rolls can lead to soggy sliders. Make sure to lightly toast them before adding the fillings for a better texture.
- Overstuffing the Rolls: Adding too many ingredients can make it hard to eat. Stick to a reasonable amount of meatballs and cheese for a balanced bite.
- Ignoring Cheese Melting Time: Not keeping an eye on the sliders while they bake can result in burnt cheese. Check frequently to prevent overcooking.
- Choosing Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar meatballs or cheese can affect flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to season your meatballs and sauce can lead to bland sliders. Don’t skip on spices; they enhance the overall flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
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- Duration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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- Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Freezing Meatball Parmesan Sliders
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- Duration: Freeze sliders for up to 2 months.
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- Containers: Wrap each slider in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake the sliders for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual sliders on medium power for 30-45 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place sliders in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Meatball Parmesan Sliders that may help you enjoy this dish even more.
Can I use homemade meatballs for Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs will add a personal touch and enhance the flavor of your sliders.
What type of cheese works best with Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
Mozzarella is ideal due to its melting qualities, but feel free to mix in provolone or fontina for added flavor.
How can I customize my Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
You can add different sauces, like pesto or BBQ sauce, or include vegetables like peppers or onions for variety.
Are Meatball Parmesan Sliders suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These sliders store well, making them a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Meatball Parmesan Sliders are not just easy and delicious; they are also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various sauces or cheeses according to your taste. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, these sliders make the perfect addition to any meal. Give them a try!

Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people (12 sliders) 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these mouthwatering Meatball Parmesan Sliders. Perfect for game nights, parties, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe features savory meatballs nestled in buttery Hawaiian rolls and topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Quick and easy to prepare, these sliders are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Elevate your gatherings with this delicious dish that combines simplicity and flavor into every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pkg Kings Hawaiian Rolls
- 12 cooked cocktail meatballs
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- 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. Cut small circles into the center of each Hawaiian roll without cutting through.
- Use your fingers or a small glass to create an indentation in each roll.
- Brush the inside and tops of the rolls with garlic butter and bake for about 4 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Add a spoonful of tomato sauce and a piece of mozzarella cheese into each roll.
- Insert warmed meatballs and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and return to the oven for another 5 minutes until melted.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sliders (114g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg