Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders

Photo of author
Published:
Delicious spaghetti and meatball sliders on a serving platter

Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders are the ultimate comfort food that merges two beloved classics: spaghetti and meatballs, and delightful, soft sliders. This recipe will have your taste buds dancing with joy and your kitchen filled with mouthwatering aromas. Imagine succulent meatballs nestled on a bed of al dente spaghetti, laden with marinara sauce, all encased in perfectly toasted Hawaiian rolls. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll find the perfect balance of flavors, ensuring this dish becomes a staple in your home. Best of all, it’s an easy prep that the whole family will love, making it a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One of the key benefits of this Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders recipe is its straightforward preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. With minimal ingredients and uncomplicated steps, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious food with your loved ones. These sliders are also a family-friendly option, and kids (and adults alike!) will delight in the familiar flavors of spaghetti and meatballs in a fun, handheld form. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family dinner or a lively game day party, these sliders are sure to impress any crowd.

Ingredients

For this delicious recipe, you will need:

  • 1/2 pound lean ground beef (80/20)
  • 2 tablespoons Italian bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 envelope beefy onion soup mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente and drained
  • 1 cup jarred marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 12 pack Hawaiian rolls
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside. Additionally, line a sheet tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, egg, onion soup mix, garlic powder, dried oregano, and black pepper until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatballs tough.
  3. Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and roll them into balls. Place the meatballs on the prepared sheet tray, ensuring there is some space between each meatball for even cooking.
  4. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  5. While the meatballs are baking, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and transfer the hot noodles to a large bowl. Add the marinara sauce and additional grated parmesan cheese to the noodles, stirring to combine everything thoroughly.
  6. Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise, then place the bottom halves, cut side up, into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Add a generous helping of the spaghetti mixture on top of the bottom halves of the rolls. Next, place one meatball on each slider.
  8. Top each meatball with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese, showering them with cheesy goodness.
  9. Finally, place the top halves of the rolls over the meatballs and noodles.
  10. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the tops of the rolls.
  11. Cover the baking dish with nonstick foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the tops of the rolls are beautifully browned and crispy.
  12. Allow the sliders to cool for about 10 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Tips & Tricks

To make your Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders even more special, here are some chef’s secrets and tips:

  • For added flavor, consider mixing in finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the meatball mixture.
  • If you prefer a bit of a kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce for some extra heat.
  • Switch up the cheese! Though mozzarella is the classic choice, provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses can elevate the flavor profile.
  • For an even faster prep, consider using pre-made meatballs or marinara sauce.
  • You can also make an extra batch of meatballs, freeze them, and save them for future meals!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving them with a fresh, crunchy salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or crispy garlic bread for that extra dose of comfort. They are also perfect for game day gatherings—just set them up on a platter, and watch them disappear as guests enjoy their deliciousness while cheering for their favorite team. For a nice touch, serve with classic dipping sauces like marinara on the side for a fun twist.

Nutritional Information

These sliders are not only delicious but can also be relatively balanced if made with lean beef and minimal added fats. On average, one slider will contain approximately 290 calories, with a good mix of protein and carbohydrates. Consider serving them with a side of veggies or a fresh salad, making them a fulfilling meal without compromising taste. Enjoy them with a little moderation, and you’re good to go!

Storing Tips & Variations for Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders

Stored properly, you can enjoy these sliders even after the first serving! Place any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll last for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the meatballs separately. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. To keep things interesting, feel free to swap out the beef for turkey or plant-based alternatives. You can also customize the slider toppings with different cheeses, sauces, or even sautéed peppers and onions.

Conclusion for Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders

Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders are not just a meal; they are an experience. Their comforting taste and delightful presentation make them an inviting option for any gathering or an everyday family meal. Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they dive into these warm, cheesy sliders. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the steps above, and treat yourself and your family to this delicious creation today!

FAQs

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
  2. Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that is leaner but still delicious.
  3. What kind of marinara sauce should I use?
  4. You can use any jarred marinara sauce you prefer or make your own at home for a fresher taste.
  5. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
  6. Absolutely! You can assemble them ahead of time and simply bake them when ready to serve.
  7. How can I make these sliders vegetarian?
  8. Substitute the meatball mixture with plant-based meatballs or a hearty mixture of cooked lentils and spices.
  9. What can I pair with these sliders?
  10. They pair wonderfully with a light salad, garlic bread, or even sweet potato fries for a colorful meal.

With these engaging tips and information, you are all set to create mouthwatering Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders that will become a hit in your household! Enjoy!

Delicious spaghetti and meatball sliders on a serving platter

Spaghetti and Meatball Sliders

Delicious sliders combining spaghetti and meatballs inside soft Hawaiian rolls, perfect for a family dinner or game day.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course, Party Food
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 12 sliders
Calories 290 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs

  • 1/2 pound lean ground beef (80/20)
  • 2 tablespoons Italian bread crumbs
  • 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg for binding
  • 1/2 envelope beefy onion soup mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sliders

  • 8 ounces spaghetti noodles, cooked al dente and drained
  • 1 cup jarred marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese for topping
  • 12 pack Hawaiian rolls for the slider base
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
  • 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Line a sheet tray with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, egg, onion soup mix, garlic powder, dried oregano, and black pepper until well combined.
  • Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and roll them into balls. Place the meatballs on the prepared sheet tray.

Cooking

  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • While the meatballs are baking, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.
  • Add the marinara sauce and additional grated parmesan cheese to the noodles, stirring to combine.

Assembly

  • Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half lengthwise. Place the bottom halves cut side up into the prepared baking dish.
  • Add a generous helping of the spaghetti mixture on top of the bottom halves. Place one meatball on each slider.
  • Top each meatball with a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Place the top halves of the rolls over the meatballs and noodles.

Final Baking

  • In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Brush this mixture over the tops of the rolls.
  • Cover the baking dish with nonstick foil. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the tops are browned.
  • Allow the sliders to cool for about 10 minutes, then slice and serve warm.

Notes

For added flavor, mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the meatball mixture. Consider using different cheeses or sauces for variety.
Keyword Comfort Food, Easy Recipe, Family Dinner, Sliders, Spaghetti and Meatballs

Weekly Newsletter

Get the latest recipes and my top tips straight into your inbox!



    You Might Also Like...

    Sizzling Chinese Beef & Broccoli Stir-Fry

    Sizzling Chinese Beef & Broccoli Stir-Fry

    One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

    One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup

    Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

    Chicken and Cabbage Soup with Ginger

    Spicy Blackened Fish Tacos

    Spicy Blackened Fish Tacos

    Leave a Comment

    Recipe Rating