Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a plate of Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders on game day or during a cozy family gathering. Picture this: the aroma of savory meatballs wafting through the house as they bake to perfection, filling every corner with a sense of warmth and anticipation. I remember the first time I made these sliders for a gathering of friends. We laughed, shared stories, and devoured every last bite. It’s a recipe that brings everyone together, creating not just a meal but a shared experience filled with joy and laughter.

Ingredients Overview for Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders

The ingredients for Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders are not just simple; they’re a harmony of flavors that work beautifully together. The key players—ground beef, mozzarella cheese, and pasta sauce—create a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.

• 2 pounds lean ground beef: This is the heart of our sliders, providing the essential protein and flavor.
• 1 egg: Acts as a binder to keep the meatballs moist and helps maintain their shape.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the meatballs from becoming too dry.
• 2/3 cup romano cheese: This cheese adds a sharp, salty flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic infuses a delicious aroma and depth of flavor.
• 2 teaspoons dried basil: This herb gives a hint of sweetness and earthiness.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and color.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the sliders.
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: A little kick to balance the richness.
• 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs: They create a wonderful texture in the meatballs.
• 4 ounces of mozzarella cheese, cut into cubes: The surprise cheesy center that melts beautifully.
• 3 cups of your favorite pasta sauce: Ties everything together and adds moisture.
• 12-15 slider buns: These hold our delicious filling and make them easy to serve and eat.
• Basil for garnish: A fresh touch to elevate the presentation.

How to Cook Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders

Making Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders is a rewarding experience that’s fun and fulfilling. Get ready to dive into a delicious adventure with each step guiding you to that golden, cheesy goodness.

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This ensures that the meatballs will cook evenly and become beautifully browned.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, olive oil, romano cheese, panko bread crumbs, garlic, salt, pepper, basil, and parsley. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; otherwise, your meatballs may turn out tough.
3. Spray a large baking dish with non-stick spray. This will help prevent the meatballs from sticking to the dish.
4. Add about 2 cups of your pasta sauce to the baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This creates a delicious base for the meatballs.
5. Now it’s time to roll the meatballs! Take about 3 tablespoons of the mixture and form it into a golf-ball-sized ball. Press a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center before sealing the meat around it.
6. Place the formed meatballs into the sauce in the baking dish, making sure they are nestled in the sauce. This will keep them moist while they bake.
7. Once all the meatballs are in the dish, sprinkle a little more mozzarella cheese and some extra panko bread crumbs on top for a delicious crust.
8. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re cooked through and the cheese is gooey.
9. To serve, place the meatballs on slider buns and top with more pasta sauce if desired. A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a beautiful touch!

Ways to Customize

One of my favorite things about Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders is how flexible they are. Here are some ways you can make them your own:

• Meat Options: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different cheeses like provolone or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
• Seasoning Swaps: Add your favorite spices like cumin or chili powder for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with a mix of chopped vegetables and beans for a hearty vegetarian option.
• Serving Style: Serve sliders on a platter with assorted dipping sauces like ranch or spicy ketchup.
• Freezing: You can freeze the meatballs before or after baking. Just ensure they are well-wrapped.
• Leftover Makeovers: Turn leftover meatballs into a pasta dish or a hearty soup for another meal!

Serving Suggestions

This delicious recipe for Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders is perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving ideas:

• Game Day: Serve these sliders at your next game day gathering along with chips and dips.
• Family Dinners: They make a fun and interactive dinner where everyone can assemble their sliders.
• Picnics: Pack them for a picnic, as they are easy to transport and serve.
• Movie Nights: Make these sliders for a cozy movie night at home with friends or family.
• Garnish: Top with fresh lettuce and tomato slices for added flavor and crunch.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftovers covered in the fridge for up to three days.
• Seasonal Pairing: Enjoy these sliders with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.

FAQ

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and flavor, these Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders are the answer. They bring joy to any gathering and are sure to impress your friends and family. So why not give them a try? You won’t regret it! Dive into the cheesy, meaty goodness and create memories around the table!

Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders

The ultimate comfort food, Cheesy Stuffed Meatball Sliders combine savory meatballs with gooey cheese and a rich sauce, all nestled in warm buns. They’re perfect for game day or a cozy dinner with family. Satisfy your cravings and make these sliders tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 15 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds lean ground beef
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2/3 cup romano cheese
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
• 4 ounces mozzarella cheese cut into cubes + more for topping
• 3 cups your favorite pasta sauce
• 12-15 slider buns or dinner rolls if you cannot find them
• basil for garnish/topping

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying pan
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. In a large bowl, add ground beef, egg, oil, cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, salt, pepper, basil, and parsley. Mix to combine, gently tossing a few times with your hands. Don’t overmix – it will result in tough meatballs!
3. Spray a large baking dish with non-stick spray and add 2 cups of pasta sauce.
4. Roll beef into golf-ball-sized meatballs (about 3 tablespoons of beef), and press a cube of mozzarella in the middle. Seal the beef around the cheese and set in sauce.
5. Once all meatballs have been added, sprinkle additional cheese and breadcrumbs over top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until meatballs are cooked through.
7. Serve with additional sauce if desired, toasted slider buns, and a few slabs of mozzarella for topping.

Notes

• Storage: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container.
• Freezing: These meatballs freeze well before or after cooking; just ensure they're sealed properly.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Leftover Ideas: Transform leftover meatballs into a pasta dish or a hearty soup.
• Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a kick of heat.

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Meet Paige Wilson

I’m our photographer and stylist, so it’s my job to make our food look as sunny and delicious as it tastes. I’m obsessed with finding that perfect light. When I’m not behind the lens, I’m in the kitchen as the official “chief taster.” I work closely with Hailey and Brooke to cook, test, and refine the flavors for every single recipe until it’s just right.