Meatball Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

There’s nothing quite like an easy-to-make meal that everyone loves. My meatball sliders on Hawaiian rolls recipe is just that—a killer appetizer that also doubles as the simplest weeknight dinner.

These sliders are not only filling but also a big hit at parties and football games.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These meatball sliders on soft Hawaiian rolls are the perfect combination of convenience and flavor.

Sweet Hawaiian rolls, savory meatballs and marinara, and melted mozzarella add irresistible cheesy goodness. Plus, this recipe requires minimal prep and very few ingredients, which makes it not only family-friendly on the tastebuds but also the wallet.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Meatball Sliders

• 12 slider-size Hawaiian rolls
• 12 frozen meatballs, thawed and cooked
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Two tablespoons butter melted (Infused Butter: Enhance the melted butter with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.)
• One teaspoon of garlic powder
• One teaspoon of Italian seasoning

Tip: For an extra touch, try my homemade old fashioned Italian meatballs instead of frozen ones—they’re definitely worth the effort!

How to make Meatball Sliders on Hawaiian Rolls

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease an 11″x7″ baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare the Rolls: Place all 12 rolls into the baking pan without separating them. Use a knife to cut a hole in the center of each roll for the meatballs.

Add Meatballs: Place one cooked meatball into each roll’s hole.

Top with Sauce and Cheese: Spoon marinara sauce generously over each meatball, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Butter and Season: Pour melted butter over the sliders, ensuring each one gets a bit. Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning evenly over the top.

Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve immediately for the best results.

Tips and Variations for Perfect Hawaiian Sliders:

• Extra Saucy: Add a little extra marinara inside the rolls before placing the meatball. I also suggest trying alfredo or pesto sauce to mix up the options.
• Reheating Leftovers: For best results, reheat leftovers in an air fryer at 350°F for about 4 minutes to keep them crispy and warm.
• Cheese Variations: Swap mozzarella with provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses, or use cheese-stuffed meatballs!

Can you make meatball sliders ahead?

Make-Ahead: Cut and assemble the rolls with meatballs in them and store them in the fridge. Add sauce, cheese, and butter when ready to bake.

Party Prep Tips: For large gatherings, assemble the sliders on a large sheet pan for easy serving. You can also prepare different variations on the same tray for variety.

FAQ’s:

What cheese options go on meatball subs? While mozzarella is the classic choice when it comes to Italian meals, you can also use shredded provolone, Parmesan, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.

What are good side dishes for meatball sliders? Meatball sliders pair well with a fresh dill cucumber salad, roasted broccoli with cheese sauce, or traditional sides like pasta salad and of course, garlic bread.

What is the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Please note that there really is no way to get around some of the sog that the sauce will give the rolls. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the best texture.

• Looking for more easy appetizers? If you have leftover packages you should make these Cheesy Hawaiian Roll Garlic Bread. Other great choices pizza rolls, or even these skewers, which are perfect for pairing with these meatball sliders.
• Craving something hearty? While a meal on its own, this creamy mostaccioli recipe is another Italian favorite that pairs well with sliders.

I hope you enjoy making and eating these sweet meatball sliders as much as I do! Don’t forget to let me know how they turn out in the comments below, and if you have any questions, I’m here to help!

More Slider Recipes Perfect for Parties

Chopped Italian Sliders

Big Mac Sliders

Caprese Sliders (Mini Caprese Sandwiches)

Breakfast Sliders