Meatball Sliders Hawaiian Rolls: Make The Best Meatball Sliders
Jennifer
Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, sweet Meatball Sliders Hawaiian Rolls filled with juicy Italian meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese—all baked to golden perfection. These meatball sliders with Hawaiian rolls are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a game day snack, a quick dinner, or a party appetizer, this recipe delivers big on flavor and ease.
IN This Post:
History of Meatball Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe:
The humble slider has its origins in American diners of the early 20th century, where small hamburgers were served as affordable, quick snacks. Over time, sliders evolved into a versatile dish, featuring various fillings to suit every palate. Meatball sliders, in particular, bring an Italian-American flair to this classic concept, combining tender meatballs, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese on bite-sized rolls.
Hawaiian rolls, known for their slightly sweet and pillowy texture, have become a favorite bread choice for sliders. Their origins trace back to Portuguese sweet bread, adapted in Hawaii to create the iconic rolls we know today. Pairing these rolls with Italian-inspired meatballs creates a fusion that’s both satisfying and universally loved.
Why You’ll Love Meatball Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe:
Hawaiian rolls bring a slight sweetness that complements the savory and tangy flavors of marinara sauce and meatballs beautifully. When paired with the richness of melted mozzarella, these sliders offer a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Each bite is balanced and satisfying, making them a favorite for anyone who tries them.
This recipe is designed to be simple and time-saving. By using pre-cooked meatballs and store-bought marinara sauce, you can assemble these sliders with minimal effort. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish ready to impress, even on busy weeknights or when hosting guests at the last minute.
Meatball sliders fit seamlessly into any occasion. They’re perfect as appetizers for parties, snacks for game nights, or even a quick and comforting family meal. Their portable size makes them easy to serve, and their universal appeal ensures they’ll be a hit with guests of all ages.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for premium marinara sauce and cheese for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overload the Sauce: Use 1–2 cups of marinara, depending on your preference for sauciness.
- Brush Generously: Coat the tops of the rolls with garlic butter to enhance flavor and achieve a golden crust.
- Add a Twist: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese or fresh basil on top after baking for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the sliders a few hours before baking and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
- Serve Warm: These sliders taste best when served fresh and warm, with the cheese perfectly melted.
What are meatball sliders Hawaiian rolls?
Meatball sliders Hawaiian rolls combine the savory flavors of Italian-American cuisine with the subtle sweetness of Hawaiian rolls. These sliders feature tender, juicy meatballs coated in tangy marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella cheese, all nestled between soft, buttery Hawaiian rolls.
Baked to golden perfection, they are bite-sized delights that work perfectly for parties, game nights, or family meals. Each slider offers a delicious balance of savory and sweet, making them a universally loved treat that’s easy to prepare and enjoy.
How to Store Meatball Sliders?
- Refrigeration: Store leftover sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days.
- Reheating in the Oven: Wrap sliders in foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their warmth and texture.
- Microwave Option: Heat sliders in 30-second intervals, but note that this method may soften the rolls more than the oven.
How To Make Meatball Sliders Hawaiian Rolls Recipe:
Meatball Sliders Hawaiian Rolls: Make The Best Meatball Sliders
Equipment
- Baking Pan
- Parchment paper or Aluminum Foil
- Pastry Brush
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 12 oz. Hawaiian rolls
- 16 oz. frozen Italian meatballs cooked and hot
- 2 cups marinara sauce adjust based on preference
- 6 slices mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup butter melted
- 1 tsp garlic salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). to ensure even cooking and perfect results. Prepare a 9×13 baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Prepare the Meatballs: Cook the frozen Italian meatballs according to the package instructions. Ensure they are heated thoroughly and warm before assembling the sliders. This step is crucial for even cooking during baking.
- Slice the Rolls: Take the Hawaiian rolls and carefully slice them horizontally with a sharp knife, keeping the top and bottom halves intact. Place the bottom half into the prepared baking dish, ensuring they are evenly arranged.
- Assemble the Sliders: Place one cooked meatball on each section of the bottom rolls, ensuring that each roll gets a meatball. Add a dollop of marinara sauce on top of each meatball to enhance flavor. Lay mozzarella cheese slices over the meatballs, covering them evenly for a gooey, melty finish.
- Add the Top Rolls: Gently place the top halves of the rolls back over the meatballs and cheese. Align them carefully with the bottom rolls to maintain a neat appearance.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small mixing bowl, combine melted butter with garlic salt. Mix well to create a flavorful glaze. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops of the rolls with this butter mixture, ensuring every inch is covered.
- Bake the Sliders: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake the sliders for 13–16 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the tops of the rolls are golden brown. The garlic butter will add a delicious crust to the rolls.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Letting the sliders cool slightly will make slicing safer and more manageable. Use a sharp knife to divide the sliders into neat, individual portions for serving. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect combination of flavors!
Notes
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance, cover them tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Experiment with Sauces: Use a mix of marinara and Alfredo sauce for a unique flavor twist.
- Cheese Alternatives: Provolone or gouda cheese works well if you don’t have mozzarella.
- Crispier Rolls: Toast the rolls lightly before assembling for added texture.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or red pepper flakes on top for extra flavor.
- Portion Control: Cut sliders evenly for neat servings and easy handling.
| Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 701 |
| Total Fat | 38g |
| Cholesterol | 142.2mg |
| Sodium | 1560.2mg |
| Carbohydrates | 63.3g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.3g |
| Sugars | 25.2g |
| Protein | 26.3g |
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on portion size and toppings.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or even gouda for a unique flavor twist. Each cheese offers its own distinct texture and taste to enhance the sliders.
- Add Heat: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños to give the sliders a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors.
- Herb Infusion: Garnish the sliders with freshly chopped basil, parsley, or cilantro to add a burst of freshness and an extra layer of flavor.
- Extra Crunch: Include crispy fried onions, pickles, or even a handful of shredded lettuce to add a satisfying crunch to every bite.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace Hawaiian rolls with lettuce wraps or low-carb sandwich buns to make a lighter and keto-friendly option.
- Sweet and Savory Twist: Drizzle a bit of honey or use a sweet barbecue sauce for a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work beautifully and can elevate the flavor of the sliders.
Reheat in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes to keep the rolls soft and the fillings warm.
You can assemble the sliders and freeze them before baking. When ready to use, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bake following the recipe instructions.
Pair them with a fresh salad, potato wedges, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Toast the bottom rolls lightly and use cheese as a barrier to prevent the marinara from soaking through.
Meatball sliders with Hawaiian rolls are a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a quick family dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor, convenience, and satisfaction. Try it today and elevate your slider game!
Don’t forget to check out other Sliders recipes and share your results and leave a comment below. We’d love to hear your feedback!
