Name: Hawaiian Rolls Meatball Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 Hawaiian Rolls, split horizontally; 12 Fully Cooked Meatballs; 1 1/2 cups Marinara Sauce; 1 1/2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese; 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 2 tablespoons Butter, melted; 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs; Salt and Pepper to taste

If you’re seeking the perfect crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, look no further than these Hawaiian Rolls Meatball Sliders! These sliders are a symphony of flavors wrapped in soft, pillow-like rolls. Imagine biting into a warm, slightly sweet Hawaiian roll filled with juicy meatballs, a rich marinara sauce, and gooey, melted cheese. What sets these sliders apart is their simplicity and the minimal effort required to whip them up, making them an ideal choice for both family meals and parties alike. Let’s dive into why this recipe should become a staple in your household!

These sliders embody everything that is wonderful about comfort food: they are satisfying, easy to make, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. The soft Hawaiian rolls offer a delightful sweetness that beautifully complements the savory meatballs and tangy marinara sauce. Whether it’s game day, a birthday party, or a simple family dinner, Hawaiian Rolls Meatball Sliders will not only fill hungry bellies but will also have your guests raving about the food. Easy-to-handle and bursting with flavor, these sliders are truly a dish that brings everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Rolls Meatball Sliders

Deliciously rich flavor combination of meat, cheese, and sauce.
Simple to prepare and requires minimal ingredients.
Perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy family nights.
Customizable with different toppings and sauces.
Can be prepared ahead of time, making serving a breeze.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you get started on making your Hawaiian Rolls Meatball Sliders, it’s important to set up your kitchen space for success. First, gather all your ingredients and tools to avoid frequent trips to the pantry or fridge. You will need a baking tray or dish lined with parchment paper, a saucepan for warming the marinara, and a large spatula or spoon for assembling your sliders.

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is crucial as you’ll need it ready for baking. Also, consider your workspace: a clean countertop will help you quickly maneuver as you build your sliders. Having everything prepped not only makes cooking easier but also keeps the process enjoyable!

Ingredients

12 Hawaiian Rolls, split horizontally
12 Fully Cooked Meatballs
1 1/2 cups Marinara Sauce
1 1/2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
2 tablespoons Butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows for even cooking. While the oven is heating, pour your marinara sauce into a saucepan and gently warm it over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the fully cooked meatballs into the sauce. Stir gently and let them simmer until they are heated through, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Assemble the Sliders

Once your meatballs are heated, it’s time to assemble the sliders. Place the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls in your greased or lined baking dish. It’s okay to keep them connected for easier handling. Spoon some marinara sauce over each roll surface, ensuring they’re sufficiently covered but not overly soggy. Next, place a meatball on each roll followed by an additional spoonful of marinara for added flavor. Finally, generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over these toppings.

Step 3: Top and Bake

Now it’s time to add the crown of your sliders! Carefully place the top half of the split Hawaiian rolls back over the meatballs. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and brush this mixture over the top of the rolls for that golden finish. Sprinkle dried Italian herbs over everything and cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake this for 15 minutes, keeping it covered to ensure the moisture stays in. After that, uncover the dish and allow it to bake for another 5-7 minutes until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is thoroughly melted. This step provides that lovely crispy texture on top!

Variations

Protein: Substitute the meatballs with cooked sausage, grilled chicken, or even plant-based meatballs for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add fresh spinach, roasted peppers, or sautéed onions to incorporate more nutrients and flavor.
Spices: Experiment with different spices such as crushed red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.

Cooking Notes

For a quicker option, use pre-cooked frozen meatballs. Just be sure they are warmed through before building your sliders.
Lightly toasting the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls will help prevent the sliders from becoming soggy.
Feel free to get creative with toppings — jalapeños, olives, or different cheeses can offer great variations!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Pair with crispy potato chips or sweet potato fries for an easy appetizer platter.

Tips

Incorporate additional dips like ranch or spicy mayo for added flavor when serving.
Make these sliders a day in advance. Just assemble and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
For leftovers, store sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm in the oven for best results!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 300 per slider
Protein: 15g per slider
Sodium: 500mg per slider

FAQs

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely! Homemade meatballs will elevate the taste even further, and you can customize the seasoning to your preference.

Can these sliders be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free Hawaiian rolls and ensure your meatballs and marinara sauce do not contain any gluten-based ingredients.

How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze these sliders?

Definitely! You can freeze assembled sliders before baking. Just make sure to defrost them in the refrigerator before baking as normal.

Conclusion

These Hawaiian Rolls Meatball Sliders are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a wonderful way to bond with family and friends over delicious food. Their simplicity paired with rich flavors ensures that they will be a hit at any gathering you host. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or mix things up with your own unique variations, these sliders are bound to impress and satisfy. Don’t hesitate to share your own spin and thoughts in the comments below—happy cooking!