Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes for ground beef to create lighter versions without compromising flavor.

How do I keep the sliders moist during baking?

Baking the meatballs first and then layering them with marinara and cheese under foil helps retain moisture and melt the cheese perfectly.

Shredded mozzarella on top melts beautifully, while grated Parmesan in the meatballs adds depth and a savory kick.

Yes, meatballs can be formed in advance and refrigerated. Assemble the sliders just before baking to ensure freshness.

Light salads, roasted vegetables, or a simple punch complement the sliders nicely without overpowering their flavor.

Festive, juicy meatball sliders baked with melty cheese and tangy marinara, perfect for holiday gatherings or casual get-togethers.

This recipe has become a holiday favorite in my family because of its easy preparation and delicious flavor combination.

Meatballs: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 large egg, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried), 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
Sliders: 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls, 1 1/2 cups (360 ml) marinara sauce, 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step 1:: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined.
Step 3:: Form mixture into 12 equal meatballs and place on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4:: Bake meatballs for 15-18 minutes, until cooked through and browned.
Step 5:: Lower oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Step 6:: Slice slider buns in half horizontally (do not separate individual rolls). Place the bottom halves in a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
Step 7:: Spoon half the marinara sauce over the bun bottoms. Place a meatball on each bun.
Step 8:: Top each meatball with remaining marinara sauce, then sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese.
Step 9:: Place the bun tops over the cheese.
Step 10:: In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley. Brush over the tops of the buns.
Step 11:: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5 more minutes, until cheese is melted and buns are golden.
Step 12:: Serve warm.

This recipe always brings smiles around our holiday table and creates warm family memories.

Large mixing bowl, Baking sheet, 9x13-inch baking dish, Small bowl and pastry brush, Knife

Contains Wheat (buns, breadcrumbs), Eggs, Milk (mozzarella, Parmesan, butter). Always check ingredient labels if you have food allergies.

Calories: 270, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 15 g per serving.

Enjoy these sliders warm for the best taste and texture every time.

→ Can I use other meats instead of beef?: Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as substitutes for ground beef to create lighter versions without compromising flavor.
→ How do I keep the sliders moist during baking?: Baking the meatballs first and then layering them with marinara and cheese under foil helps retain moisture and melt the cheese perfectly.
→ What type of cheese works best for these sliders?: Shredded mozzarella on top melts beautifully, while grated Parmesan in the meatballs adds depth and a savory kick.
→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?: Yes, meatballs can be formed in advance and refrigerated. Assemble the sliders just before baking to ensure freshness.
→ What sides pair well with these sliders?: Light salads, roasted vegetables, or a simple punch complement the sliders nicely without overpowering their flavor.