Meatloaf sliders are a fun twist on the classic meatloaf! These bite-sized sandwiches pack all the tasty flavors into a mini version, making them perfect for parties or a simple dinner.
They’re super easy to make, and you can load them up with your favorite toppings. I love adding a bit of barbecue sauce and cheese on top—it just makes them irresistible! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80% lean for juiciness in the meatloaf mix. If you prefer less fat, 90% lean works well too, but might be drier. Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option!
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs are perfect, but if you’re sensitive to gluten, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers. I sometimes use panko for an extra crunch!
Ketchup: This adds flavor and moisture. If you want a twist, try barbecue sauce instead. It’s especially tasty with the sliders!
Cheese: Provolone is my favorite for melting, but mozzarella is also delicious. For a kick, pepper jack can add some spice. You can also skip the cheese entirely if you want a lower-calorie option.
How Do I Keep My Meatloaf Moist?
Keeping meatloaf juicy is key! First, soak the breadcrumbs in milk—this helps them retain moisture. Mixing shouldn’t be too aggressive; just combine your ingredients until they’re well mixed, but be gentle—overmixing can make it tough.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—aim for 160°F (71°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking. This lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have sliders that are perfectly juicy and flavorful every time!
Meatloaf Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling the Sliders:
- 6 slider buns or small soft sandwich rolls
- 6 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Optional: fresh basil or spinach leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep, plus 35-40 minutes baking time. After that, you’ll need an additional 5 minutes for the meatloaf to rest before slicing. In total, you’re looking at about 1 hour, but it’s mostly hands-off time while it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a small baking pan or a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly. This will help the meatloaf come out easily without sticking.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this soak for a few minutes while you gather the other ingredients. This step helps keep the meatloaf moist!
3. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
Now, add the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the soaked breadcrumbs. Mix everything together gently using your hands or a spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Next, form the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf shape, making it suitable for slicing into six equal pieces later. Place the shaped meatloaf into your prepared baking pan.
5. Add the Ketchup Glaze:
Spread a thin layer of ketchup over the top of the meatloaf for a nice sweet glaze. This gives the sliders an extra flavor boost!
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Pop the baking pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the meatloaf is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once the meatloaf is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes to help retain the juices.
8. Slice for Sliders:
After resting, slice the meatloaf into 6 even pieces. Each piece will be a delicious filling for your sliders!
9. Assemble the Sliders:
Place each meatloaf slice onto the bottom half of a slider bun. While the meat is still warm, top each slice with a piece of cheese so it can melt slightly. Add fresh greens like basil or spinach if you’re using them for a fresh crunch!
10. Serve:
Cover each slider with the top bun and serve warm. These sliders are sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your delicious homemade meatloaf sliders—the perfect bite-sized comfort food!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just keep in mind that it can dry out quicker, so consider adding a bit more milk or an extra egg to keep the mixture moist.
How Can I Reheat Leftover Sliders?
To reheat leftovers, place the sliders in a microwave-safe dish and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on low for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I Freeze Meatloaf Sliders?
Yes! You can freeze the baked meatloaf before slicing it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave. The assembled sliders can also be frozen; just assemble and freeze before baking, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Serve with Meatloaf Sliders?
These sliders go great with a side of sweet potato fries, a green salad, or vegetable sticks with dip. They also pair well with coleslaw for that perfect summer picnic vibe!