Easy Hawaiian Meatball Sliders Recipe

Get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of Hawaiian meatball sliders! This easy recipe is perfect for any occasion and combines savory meatballs with sweet Hawaiian rolls for an unforgettable culinary experience. These sliders are not only quick to make but also delightfully delicious, making them a crowd favorite at parties and family gatherings.

Growing up, my family always hosted summer barbecues, and these meatball sliders were the highlight. A recipe passed down from my grandmother, it was always the first dish to disappear from the table. The sweet and tangy flavors encapsulated our gatherings and brought everyone together, always leaving us with delightful memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, packed into a bite-sized treat that’s easy to serve and eat. The soft Hawaiian rolls provide a delightful contrast to the hearty meatballs, and the glaze adds a perfect finish. These sliders are ideal for parties, quick weeknight meals, or even as a hearty snack.

Ingredients Notes

While the ingredient list is straightforward, feel free to use frozen meatballs for convenience. Freshly baked Hawaiian rolls are a must for that authentic taste. To add some heat, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the sauce. Substitutions like turkey meatballs or gluten-free rolls can cater to specific dietary needs.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bottom halves of the Hawaiian rolls in a baking dish.

Step 2

Place a pre-cooked meatball on each roll. For homemade meatballs, see preparation notes in the ingredients section.

Step 3

In a small saucepan, combine barbecue sauce, pineapple juice, and soy sauce. Heat until it simmers, and then spoon the glaze over each meatball.

Step 4

Top the meatballs with a slice of cheese and place the other half of the roll on top. Brush melted butter over the tops for extra flavor.

Step 5

Bake in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are slightly golden. Serve immediately.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, wrap individual sliders in aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to three days. For freezing, place wrapped sliders in an airtight container, and they will keep for up to a month. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature to regain crispiness before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

For a healthier twist, swap ground beef with turkey or chicken. Those needing a gluten-free version can use gluten-free buns. Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or buffalo for an exciting flavor change.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders are perfect for picnics, game days, or any occasion where finger foods shine. Pair them with a crisp coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these sliders ahead of time? Yes, you can! Prepare the sliders and assemble them without baking. Cover and refrigerate, then bake them fresh just before serving.

How do I make a vegetarian version? Replace the meatballs with meatless alternatives like lentil or mushroom-based meatballs for a vegetarian-friendly dish.

Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! While the traditional version uses mozzarella or cheddar, feel free to try provolone, Swiss, or pepper jack for varying flavor profiles.

Easy Hawaiian Meatball Sliders Recipe

A delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors, these Hawaiian Meatball Sliders are perfect for any gathering!

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1.5 lbs ground beef 80% lean
• ▢ 0.5 cup breadcrumbs plain
• ▢ 1 tsp garlic powder
• ▢ 1 egg beaten
• ▢ 0.5 cup pineapple juice unsweetened
• ▢ 0.25 cup soy sauce low sodium
• ▢ 2 tbsp brown sugar
• ▢ 1 tsp ginger grated
• ▢ 12 slider buns Hawaiian style
• ▢ 1 red onion thinly sliced
• ▢ 1 cup pineapple rings grilled

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and beaten egg. Mix until just combined.
• Form the meat mixture into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger.
• In a large pan, cook the meatballs over medium heat until browned on all sides.
• Pour the sauce over the meatballs and simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Assemble the sliders by placing one meatball on each slider bun, topping with a slice of grilled pineapple and a few slices of red onion.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.