There’s just something about Meatball Sub Sliders that hits every time. Soft, sweet rolls stuffed with saucy meatballs and melty cheese… honestly, it’s comfort food at its best. These appetizers are the kind of sliders you’ll want to throw together for Slider Sunday because they’re perfect for game day when feeding a crowd.
Best of all, they’re so simple to make! The rolls get brushed with the most delicious garlic butter mixture and bake until they’re golden and crispy. The cheese gets nice and gooey, making every bite so comforting and savory. They’re also a bit sweet from the rolls and deliciously saucy in every bite. Don’t be surprised if you’re running back into the kitchen to make a second batch! Hope you dig in and enjoy!
How To Make Meatball Sub Sliders
Here’s a video of how to make Meatball Sub Sliders! For another delicious recipe, check out my Crispy Hot Honey Glazed Chicken Sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the meatballs and assemble the sliders a few hours before serving. Just be sure to wait on brushing the garlic butter overtop and baking until you’re ready to serve. Once you’re ready, go ahead and brush the top of the buns with the mixture and bake. That way the buns will stay fresh and the cheese will melt perfectly!
Can I use a different type of meat?
Definitely. You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even Italian sausage – they all work great here! Just keep in mind that leaner meats may cook a little faster, so check doneness earlier.
Do I have to use King’s Hawaiian rolls for this recipe?
They’re my favorite because the sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory meatballs and sauce, but you can substitute them with any other soft dinner rolls or slider buns you love.
How do I keep the sliders warm for a party?
After you finish baking, cover the tray loosely with some foil and keep it in the oven at the lowest temperature setting (around 200°F). That way the cheese stays melty without drying out the buns!
What sides go well with meatball sub sliders?
They’re great with a crisp green salad like THIS ONE, or served alongside some of my other favorite game day apps like my recreation of the famous Houston’s Spinach Artichoke Dip and Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Wings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Serves: 12
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 ¼ teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (use more or less to adjust to your heat preference)
- ½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 (12-pack) King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls, sliced in half horizontally
- 2 cups freshly grated mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Step-By-Step Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Add the egg, garlic, shallot, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and chili flakes to a mixing bowl; whisk to combine. Add the ground beef and breadcrumbs and use your hands to mix until well incorporated. Form the meat into 12 even meatballs.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Working in batches if necessary to avoid over-crowding the pan, add the meatballs, using a spatula to slightly flatten each one. Cook until a crust has formed, about 3 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low and carefully add the marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Place the bottom half of the slider buns on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella on the bottom half of the buns. Top the mozzarella with the meatballs, placing one on each individual bun. Spoon the remaining sauce over the meatballs. Top with the basil and the remaining mozzarella. Place on the top halves of the buns.
- In a small bowl, add the remaining ¼ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and melted butter, then stir to combine. Use a silicone brush to coat the tops of the buns with the butter mixture.
- Transfer the baking sheet to the oven. Cook until the cheese is melted and the tops of the buns are golden, about 10 minutes.