Meatball Sliders Hawaiian Rolls: Make The Best Meatball Sliders
Learn how to make irresistible meatball sliders with Hawaiian rolls! This easy recipe combines tender meatballs, tangy marinara, melted mozzarella, and buttery rolls baked to perfection. Perfect for parties, game nights, or quick dinners!
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.