When I think of comfort food, Meatball Marinara Sliders instantly comes to mind. Combining juicy meatballs with zesty marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, these sliders are the epitome of indulgence. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, game day gatherings, or even a casual lunch with friends, this dish is all about satisfying cravings with minimal effort. The melding of flavors as they bake creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist diving in as soon as they come out of the oven.
Why you’ll love this dish
These Meatball Marinara Sliders are a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First off, they’re incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests pop by. The combination of ground beef and pork ensures moisture and flavor in every bite, while the marinara provides that classic Italian touch. At just a fraction of the cost of a takeout meal, you can delight your guests without breaking the bank. Plus, kids love them—what’s not to adore about meatballs and cheese sandwiched in soft rolls?
"These sliders were a hit at our family gathering! They disappeared so fast, I barely got to have seconds!" – A happy home cook
Step-by-step overview
Making Meatball Marinara Sliders is a straightforward process, and you’ll love how everything comes together in under an hour. First, you will mix your meatball ingredients, then bake the meatballs until golden brown. While those are cooking, heat your marinara sauce, and prepare your slider rolls. Finally, assemble your sliders, pop them back in the oven, and enjoy the melting cheese pulling you in!
Gather these items
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 12 slider rolls
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Feel free to swap out the ground pork for turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter alternative. The breadcrumb can also be successfully replaced with gluten-free options.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, and salt and pepper until well combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs and arrange them on a baking sheet.
- Bake the meatballs for 20-25 minutes or until they are thoroughly cooked.
- While the meatballs are baking, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan until it’s warm.
- Slice each slider roll in half and place a few meatballs on the bottom halves.
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Cap with the top halves of the rolls.
- Return the assembled sliders to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Serve warm, and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
These sliders shine as a standalone meal but can be paired with sides to elevate your dining experience. Consider serving them alongside crispy baked fries, a refreshing green salad, or even some coleslaw to balance out the richness. For a fun twist, set up a slider bar with additional toppings such as sliced jalapeños, avocado, or extra marinara on the side to allow everyone to customize their bites.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing your Meatball Marinara Sliders is easy, whether you have leftovers or want to prepare them ahead of time. Place the assembled sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you’re looking to freeze them, make the meatballs and marinara separately, then freeze in portions. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best meatballs, don’t overwork the mixture when combining ingredients—just mix until everything is incorporated. This helps keep them tender and juicy. If you want an extra depth of flavor, consider adding minced onions or bell peppers to the meatball mix. Ensuring your marinara is hot when assembling the sliders adds a nice touch to the final dish.
Creative twists
Feel like mixing things up? Try using different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or provolone for a stringy texture. Consider switching the ground meats for lamb or chicken to lend a unique twist. You can also experiment with different sauces—try a pesto or a creamy alfredo sauce for a delightful variation.
Your questions answered
What is the prep time for Meatball Marinara Sliders?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, while cooking takes approximately 30-35 minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and sauce a day in advance, then simply assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
How long can I store leftover sliders?
Leftover sliders can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They’re best when reheated in the oven for optimal texture!
Dive into these Meatball Marinara Sliders and experience the joy of comfort food that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!