If you love cheesy, savory, and bite-sized snacks, these Meatball Slider Bombs are the perfect recipe for you! These mini sliders are packed with juicy, flavorful meatballs, gooey melted mozzarella, and a buttery garlic topping. Whether you’re making them for a party, game day, or a fun family dinner, these irresistible meatball bombs will be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Party Snack: Great for game days, potlucks, and gatherings.
- Irresistible Cheese Pull: Melted mozzarella makes every bite heavenly.
- Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time!
Ingredients Breakdown
-
Ground Beef & Ground Pork (½ lb each) – Creates a juicy, flavorful meatball with a balanced texture.
-
Italian-Style Breadcrumbs (½ cup) – Helps bind the meatballs while adding seasoning.
-
Grated Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup) – Adds a savory, umami boost.
-
Egg (1) – Binds the ingredients together for a tender meatball.
-
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder (1 tsp each) – Enhances the overall flavor with bold seasoning.
-
Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – Brings in classic Italian herbs for added depth.
-
Salt & Black Pepper (½ tsp each) – Balances and enhances the seasoning.
-
Milk (2 tbsp) – Keeps the meatballs moist and tender.
-
Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Used for cooking and browning the meatballs.
-
Slider Rolls (12) – Soft and slightly sweet, they hold everything together perfectly.
-
Mozzarella Cheese (12 cubes) – Melts beautifully for a cheesy surprise in every bite.
-
Marinara Sauce (1 cup) – Adds a rich, tangy tomato flavor.
-
Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – Creates a golden, flavorful topping.
-
Garlic Powder (1 tsp) & Dried Oregano (½ tsp) – Infuses extra seasoning into the topping.
-
Grated Parmesan Cheese (2 tbsp) – Adds a final cheesy, salty kick.
-
Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped) – Provides a pop of freshness for garnish.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Pre-Made Meatballs: If you’re short on time, use store-bought meatballs.
- Prevent Soggy Rolls: Lightly toast the inside of the rolls before assembling.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for a kick.
- Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack.
Variations and Customizations
- Buffalo Meatball Sliders: Toss the meatballs in buffalo sauce before assembling.
- BBQ Meatball Sliders: Use BBQ sauce instead of marinara for a smoky twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and rolls.
Pairing Suggestions
- Drinks: Goes well with iced tea, soda, or a cold beer.
- Side Dishes: Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
- Dipping Sauces: Try with garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy.
Freezer:
- Wrap each slider in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
Popular Questions
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the meatballs in advance and assemble the sliders just before baking.
2. What’s the best bread for slider bombs?
Hawaiian rolls are ideal, but any soft dinner roll works well.
3. Can I air fry these?
Yes! Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until golden and crispy.
4. How do I prevent them from getting soggy?
Lightly toasting the inside of the rolls helps absorb excess moisture.