These meatloaf sliders are a fun twist on a classic dish. Juicy meatloaf is packed inside soft buns, making them perfect for lunch or dinner!
Your family will love how easy they are to eat, and you can even customize them with your favorite toppings. I always add pickles—yum!
Making sliders is a breeze. Just bake your meatloaf, slice it up, and assemble. They’re great for a crowd or just a cozy family meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80% lean beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. However, if you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can work, though they make for a lighter-textured slider.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer plain breadcrumbs, but panko can add extra crunch if you’re looking for texture. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are an excellent substitution if you’re avoiding gluten, and oats can also work in a pinch.
Cheese: Mozzarella is my favorite for its meltiness, but feel free to use cheddar or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese is a great alternative if you’re looking to make it dairy-free.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh is best! But if you’re short on time, you can use onion and garlic powder instead. Just adjust the quantities to taste.
Ketchup: I love adding a bit of BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor, or you can use salsa for a twist. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for low-sugar or homemade versions.
How Do You Get the Perfect Meatloaf Consistency?
Getting meatloaf just right can be tricky, but here are some tips. Keep the mixture moist but not too wet. The breadcrumbs help bind everything together. Soaking them in milk first creates a tender texture, ensuring it doesn’t turn out dry. Mix everything gently, as overworking can dry it out.
- Start with fresh ingredients; this really makes a difference.
- Don’t skip letting the meatloaf rest after baking. It helps the juices redistribute, keeping your sliders juicy.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning by adding herbs like parsley or spices that you love!
How to Make Delicious Meatloaf Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 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 Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sliders:
- 8 slider buns
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese or provolone, cut in halves
- Fresh arugula or lettuce (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and another 45-50 minutes to bake the meatloaf. After baking, let it rest for an additional 5-10 minutes before slicing. In total, you can expect to spend about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes to enjoy these tasty sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to cook the meatloaf evenly. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a loaf pan so the meatloaf doesn’t stick.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let this sit for about 5 minutes. This will soften the breadcrumbs and help the meatloaf stay moist.
3. Mix Ingredients:
Add the ground beef, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until everything is just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the meatloaf tough.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the meat mixture into the prepared loaf pan, or shape it into a small loaf on the baking sheet. This will give you the classic meatloaf shape.
5. Add Topping:
Spread about 2 tablespoons of ketchup evenly over the top of the meatloaf. This adds flavor and keeps it moist while baking.
6. Bake the Meatloaf:
Place the meatloaf in the oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done!
7. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the meatloaf from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is essential since it lets the juices settle, making it easier to slice.
8. Slice for Sliders:
Using a sharp knife, slice the meatloaf into 8 equal pieces, making sure each slice fits nicely on a slider bun.
9. Melt the Cheese:
Place a half-slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese on top of each meatloaf piece while it’s still warm so that the cheese melts slightly.
10. Toast the Buns: (Optional)
If you like a little crunch, you can lightly toast your slider buns before assembly.
11. Assemble the Sliders:
To create your sliders, place a slice of meatloaf on the bottom bun. Top with fresh arugula or lettuce for that extra crispiness, then add the top bun.
12. Ready to Serve!
Your meatloaf sliders are now ready to enjoy! Serve them warm and watch everyone go back for seconds.
This recipe yields flavorful, juicy mini meatloaf sandwiches perfect for casual dinners or parties. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great healthier alternative, but keep in mind it may be a bit drier than beef. You can add an extra tablespoon of milk or some grated vegetables to help keep it moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Meatloaf Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for about 30 seconds or warm them in a toaster oven to maintain the bun’s texture.
Can I Freeze the Meatloaf Before Baking?
Yes, you can! Prepare the meatloaf mixture, shape it, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. It should keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking!
What Toppings Can I Add to the Sliders?
Feel free to get creative! Some delicious options include sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat, or even a dollop of your favorite barbecue sauce. The sliders are versatile!
