What type of meat works best for the meatballs?

Ground beef is traditional for rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.

Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Yes, you can mix and shape the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking to save time.

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle some on top before baking for a gentle kick.

Shredded mozzarella cheese is layered on top to create a creamy, melty texture that complements the marinara sauce.

A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a festive punch pairs wonderfully with these sliders, enhancing the holiday mood.

Brushing the buns with a melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley mixture before baking helps them stay tender and develop a golden crust.

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. The combination of melty cheese and tangy marinara is irresistible.

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.

Making these sliders was a memorable holiday moment for our family, bringing everyone together around the table to enjoy the festive flavors.

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.

These meatball sliders are the perfect festive appetizer that will impress your guests with minimal effort.

→ What type of meat works best for the meatballs?: Ground beef is traditional for rich flavor, but ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
→ Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?: Yes, you can mix and shape the meatballs ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking to save time.
→ How can I make the sliders spicier?: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or sprinkle some on top before baking for a gentle kick.
→ What kind of cheese is used in these sliders?: Shredded mozzarella cheese is layered on top to create a creamy, melty texture that complements the marinara sauce.
→ Are there suggestions for beverage pairings?: A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a festive punch pairs wonderfully with these sliders, enhancing the holiday mood.
→ How do I keep the slider buns soft and golden?: Brushing the buns with a melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley mixture before baking helps them stay tender and develop a golden crust.