Savory Meatball Slider Medley

Name: Savory Meatball Slider Medley
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 pound ground pork; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 slider buns; Your choice of sauces (marinara, BBQ, or aioli); Lettuce, tomato, and cheese for toppings

Highlighted under: Soulful Supper Recipes

When I first whipped up these savory meatball sliders, I knew I was onto something special. The combination of juicy meatballs paired with soft slider buns creates an irresistible bite, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. We like to experiment with different sauces and toppings, and each time, we discover new flavor profiles that take this dish to the next level. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will leave everyone eager for the first bite!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-06T19:14:29.067Z

I remember the first time I served these sliders at a family gathering. They were gone in minutes, with everyone coming back for seconds! Each meatball is seasoned perfectly, creating a savory explosion of flavor that complements any topping. Using a mix of ground beef and pork adds depth to these little sandwiches that makes them unforgettable.

What’s even better is that these sliders are easily customizable. You can tweak the sauces and add toppings like slaw or pickles to match your taste. For instance, a spicy aioli variation turned out to be a crowd-favorite during our last barbecue!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy, flavorful meatballs packed with herbs and spices
Versatile sliders that can be customized with different toppings
Perfect for entertaining or a fun family meal

      

Meatball Mastery

Creating the perfect meatball is an art form, and the combination of ground beef and ground pork in this recipe is key to achieving both richness and flavor. The beef provides a robust base, while the pork adds moisture and a touch of sweetness. When mixing, be careful not to overwork the meat, as that can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for the juiciest results.

The breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese not only bind the meat together but also contribute to the overall flavor and texture. Feel free to use fresh breadcrumbs for a lighter texture or seasoned ones for extra flavor. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives, ensuring the rest of your ingredients are also gluten-free.

Assembling the Sliders

When it comes to assembling your sliders, the quality of your buns matters immensely. Opt for soft, slightly sweet slider buns that can hold up against the toppings and sauces without becoming soggy. Lightly toasting the insides of the buns under the broiler for a minute can add a nice texture and prevent them from getting too mushy during assembly.

Consider experimenting with different sauces to elevate the flavor profile. A tangy marinara can lend an Italian flair, while a smoky BBQ sauce offers a more robust taste. If you enjoy garlic, try adding roasted garlic aioli for a creamier base. Toppings like sharp cheddar or fresh basil can add delightful contrasts to the savory meatiness of the sliders.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for these delicious sliders:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1 pound ground pork
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly

12 slider buns
Your choice of sauces (marinara, BBQ, or aioli)
Lettuce, tomato, and cheese for toppings

Make sure to have everything ready for quick assembly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the savory meatball sliders:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for the meatballs.

Mix the Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.

Form and Bake the Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

Assemble the Sliders

While the meatballs are baking, prepare your sliders. Slice the buns, add a meatball to each, and drizzle with your favorite sauce. Top with lettuce, tomato, and cheese.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sliders warm with extra sauce on the side, and enjoy!

Your sliders are now ready to be devoured!

Pro Tips

For a juicy meatball, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Also, consider using a combination of beef and pork for extra flavor. Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning for a larger gathering, you can prepare the meatballs a day in advance. Simply shape them and bake them as directed, then let them cool before refrigerating. When you're ready to serve, just reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Another great option is to freeze the uncooked meatballs. Once formed, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you're ready for a quick meal, bake directly from the freezer, allowing an extra 5-10 minutes of cooking time. This way, you always have a handy meal option!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your meatball sliders further, consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette contrasts the richness of the sliders, while sweet potato fries provide a deliciously different texture and flavor. You can even create a slider platter for gatherings, offering a variety of sauces and toppings for guests to customize their bites.

For a unique twist, use different types of bread for the sliders—try mini pita pockets or corn tortillas for a fun, handheld treat. You could also make mini meatball sub sandwiches by using larger hoagie rolls, turning this delightful dish into a satisfying meal suited for a variety of settings!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

You can use crushed crackers or oats as a gluten-free alternative to breadcrumbs.

→ Can these sliders be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze cooked meatballs. Just let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How can I make these sliders spicy?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or drizzle hot sauce on top when assembling.