Meatball Sliders
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun meal, meatball sliders are the way to go! These mini sandwiches are packed with flavor and can be customized to suit your tastes. Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, they combine juicy meatballs, tangy sauce, and soft slider buns for a delightful bite-sized treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped parsley
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Slider buns
– Fresh basil for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 sliders. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes for cooking.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slider) contains approximately:
– Calories: 200
– Protein: 12g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 18g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional information is based on one slider.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix the ingredients until well combined.
4. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the meatballs cook, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
8. Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the marinara sauce to coat.
9. Slice slider buns in half and place a meatball on each bottom bun.
10. Top with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat substitutes or lentils. Adjust the sauce to fit your dietary needs, such as using a gluten-free or low-sugar option.
Serving and Pairings
Meatball sliders pair perfectly with a side of crispy fries, a fresh garden salad, or even some roasted vegetables. For an added kick, serve with spicy pickles or jalapeños.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover meatball sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave them for 1-2 minutes. These sliders can be frozen; simply thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overmixing the meatball mixture, which can make them tough.
– Ensure meatballs are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
– Don’t skip the baking step; it helps develop flavor.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness (internal temp of 165°F).
– Let meatballs rest before serving to keep juices intact.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different cheeses in the meatball mix for variety.
– Add chopped onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.
– Use slider buns that can hold up to the sauce without falling apart.
– For a gourmet touch, add a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the meatball.
FAQs
Can I make meatball sliders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat before serving.
What sauce works best for meatball sliders?
Marinara sauce is traditional, but BBQ sauce or Alfredo can also work well.
How do I make meatballs without eggs?
You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or breadcrumbs soaked in milk as a binding agent.
Can I grill the meatballs instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the meatballs.
What can I serve with meatball sliders?
They pair well with salads, fries, or even pasta for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Meatball sliders are a fantastic option for any gathering, providing delicious bites that are easy to prepare and serve. With their versatility and flavor, they are sure to become a favorite at your table. Enjoy crafting these delightful mini sandwiches that everyone will love!
Meatball Sliders
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Slider buns
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
- While the meatballs cook, warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Once the meatballs are done, toss them in the marinara sauce to coat.
- Slice slider buns in half and place a meatball on each bottom bun.
- Top with fresh basil and serve immediately.
