Print

Savory Meatball Sub Sliders with Gooey Mozzarella

meatball sub sliders - featured image

These sliders combine juicy seasoned meatballs, tangy marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese on soft slider buns for a quick, comforting meal perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
  • 1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs (100 g)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (25 g)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/4 cup milk (60 ml)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 12 slider buns (soft, preferably brioche or potato rolls)
  • 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded (150 g)
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (480 ml)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, fresh parsley, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  3. Roll mixture into 24 small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Keep hands slightly wet to prevent sticking.
  4. Optional: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil and brown meatballs on all sides for 4-5 minutes total. They do not need to be cooked through.
  5. Place browned or raw meatballs snugly in the prepared baking dish. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the meatballs.
  6. Slice slider buns in half horizontally. Place 2 meatballs on each bottom half, spoon extra sauce over meatballs, then top with mozzarella cheese.
  7. Place top halves of buns over cheese. Brush melted butter over tops and sprinkle with dried oregano or Italian seasoning.
  8. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
  9. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden and buns are toasted.
  10. Let sliders cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, brown meatballs before baking. Use fresh whole milk mozzarella for gooey meltiness. Brush buns with melted butter to prevent sogginess and add richness. Check meatballs internal temperature to ensure 160°F (71°C). For dairy-free or lighter options, substitute ground turkey or chicken and use plant-based cheese and butter alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: meatball sliders, meatball sub, mozzarella, easy sliders, game day food, party food, comfort food