Meatball Parmesan Sliders
These meatball parmesan sliders are the perfect blend of savory flavors and gooey cheese, making them an ideal dish for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family dinner, or just need a quick snack, these sliders never disappoint. With their simple preparation and delightful taste, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: These sliders come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of cocktail meatballs, mozzarella, and garlic butter creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or snack; they fit seamlessly into any meal plan.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike can’t resist these cheesy bites; they’re sure to disappear fast!
- Easy Clean-Up: With minimal dishes required, you can enjoy your meal without the stress of extensive clean-up.
Tools and Preparation
To make these meatball parmesan sliders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Small Glass or Measuring Cup
- Pastry Brush
- Oven
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking while holding all those delicious sliders without spills.
- Small Glass or Measuring Cup: This helps create the perfect indentation in each roll for filling.
- Pastry Brush: A pastry brush is essential for evenly spreading garlic butter on the rolls.
- Oven: The oven is crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish on your sliders.
Ingredients
These meatball parmesan sliders are made with cocktail meatballs, mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce baked in garlic butter brushed Hawaiian rolls for a super easy and delicious dinner.
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: Toast the Rolls
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: Add Sauce and Cheese
Now, add a little bit of tomato sauce to the center of each hole. Then place a small piece of mozzarella cheese into each one.
Step 4: Fill with Meatballs
Add the warmed/cooked meatballs to each slider. Sprinkle them with parmesan cheese to enhance that cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Melt More Cheese
Top with the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Place them back in a 400-degree oven for about 5 minutes or until all the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them; they can burn easily because of the butter.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Let them cool slightly before garnishing with parsley (optional). Enjoy your delicious meatball parmesan sliders!
How to Serve Meatball Parmesan Sliders
Serving meatball parmesan sliders is simple, and they can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or just having a casual dinner, these sliders are sure to please everyone.
For Casual Gatherings
- Family Style: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for easy access. This encourages guests to help themselves.
- On Individual Plates: Serve each slider on its own plate with a small portion of dipping sauce for a more formal presentation.
With Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that adds extra flavor and moisture to your sliders.
- Ranch Dressing: This creamy option offers a cool contrast to the warm sliders.
Accompaniments
- Pickles: Crunchy pickles add a tangy bite that complements the savory flavors of the sliders.
- Chips: Serve with crunchy potato chips or tortilla chips for an irresistible snack combination.
For Game Day
- Buffet Style: Set up a slider bar where guests can customize their toppings, such as extra cheese or spicy peppers.
- Mini Skewers: Secure each slider with a toothpick for easy handling during the game.

How to Perfect Meatball Parmesan Sliders
Perfecting meatball parmesan sliders involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
- choice of meatballs: Use homemade or high-quality store-bought meatballs for maximum flavor.
- layering technique: Layer ingredients carefully in the rolls to prevent sogginess and ensure even melting.
- cheese selection: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or gouda for unique flavors.
- baking time awareness: Keep an eye on the sliders in the oven; they can burn quickly due to the butter.
- garnish options: Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the dish’s presentation and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Meatball Parmesan Sliders
Pairing side dishes with your meatball parmesan sliders enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and croutons provides a refreshing balance.
- Garlic Bread: Buttery garlic bread complements the Italian flavors perfectly and is great for dipping in sauce.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the sliders.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast that pairs well with savory sliders.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrients while being deliciously satisfying.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Meatball Parmesan Sliders even better. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
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Using cold meatballs: Ensure your meatballs are warmed before adding them to the sliders. Cold meatballs can prevent the cheese from melting properly.
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Skipping the garlic butter: Don’t omit this step! Garlic butter adds essential flavor and prevents the rolls from becoming too dry.
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Overfilling the rolls: Be careful not to overstuff each slider. This can lead to messy sliders that fall apart when you pick them up.
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Not monitoring baking time: Keep an eye on your sliders while they bake. The butter can cause them to brown quickly, so check frequently after a few minutes.
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Forgetting the garnish: A sprinkle of parsley not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Don’t skip it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Meatball Parmesan Sliders in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Wrap the sliders tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Meatball Parmesan Sliders
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Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place sliders on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
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Microwave: For quick reheating, place a slider on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 30 seconds.
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Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter and reheat sliders until warmed through, about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
Meatball Parmesan Sliders are delicious bite-sized sandwiches filled with cocktail meatballs, melted mozzarella, and savory tomato sauce, all served in soft Hawaiian rolls.
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs can add extra flavor and freshness to your sliders. Just ensure they are cooked through before assembly.
How do I customize my Meatball Parmesan Sliders?
You can customize these sliders by adding different cheeses, such as provolone or cheddar, or by mixing in vegetables like sautéed peppers or onions for added texture.
Are Meatball Parmesan Sliders suitable for parties?
Yes! These sliders make excellent appetizers for parties and gatherings. They are easy to make in large batches and sure to be a hit with guests.
Final Thoughts
These Meatball Parmesan Sliders are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various toppings and sauces. Give them a try today; you’ll love how easy and delicious they are!

Meatball Parmesan Sliders
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 (makes 12 sliders) 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible comfort of Meatball Parmesan Sliders, a perfect blend of savory flavors and gooey cheese that will elevate any gathering. These sliders are incredibly easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute parties. Featuring tender cocktail meatballs nestled in soft Hawaiian rolls, topped with melted mozzarella and drizzled with garlic butter, they are sure to be a hit among kids and adults alike. Whether served as a fun appetizer or a satisfying main course, these sliders promise to delight everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 1 package 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 the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut small circles into each Hawaiian roll to create space for filling.
- Brush the rolls with garlic butter and toast for about 4 minutes.
- Add tomato sauce and mozzarella into each roll.
- Fill with meatballs and sprinkle with parmesan cheese before topping with remaining mozzarella.
- Bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool slightly, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer/Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider (85g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 35mg