These meatloaf sliders are bite-sized wonders that pack all the yummy flavors of classic meatloaf into easy-to-eat sandwiches! Juicy beef, tangy sauce, and soft buns make these a family favorite.
Who can resist a mini-meatloaf? I love serving them with a side of crispy fries for a fun twist on dinner. They’re perfect for game night or just a cozy meal at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Breadcrumbs: These add texture. If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a nice flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a similar taste without the cheese.
Slider Buns: While soft dinner rolls are ideal, you could use whole wheat buns for a healthier twist, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
What’s the Best Way to Shape Meatloaf Patties?
Shaping the patties evenly helps them cook uniformly! Here’s how to do it:
- Moisten your hands with a little water to prevent sticking.
- Take a portion of the meat mixture (about 1/6 of the mix) and flatten it into a thick disc, matching the size of your slider buns.
- Press gently in the center to create an even thickness.
This also helps keep them from puffing up while cooking! Making the patties uniform means they’ll cook through at the same time, ensuring a perfect slider every time.
How to Make Delicious Meatloaf Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sliders:
- 6 slider buns (soft dinner rolls)
- Mayonnaise or aioli (optional, for spread)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep, followed by 25 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to make these tasty sliders, perfect for a quick dinner or snack with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your patties cook evenly once you put them in.
2. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well, but do it gently so you don’t overwork the meat!
3. Shape the Patties:
Form the mixture into small, thick patties that are roughly the same size as your slider buns. You should have about 6 patties. This will help ensure they cook evenly.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly. Place the patties on the sheet, giving them a little space in between.
5. Bake the Patties:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes. You want them to be cooked entirely (the internal temperature should reach 160°F/71°C).
6. Add Ketchup for Flavor:
In the final 5 minutes of baking, spread a little ketchup on top of each patty. This will add a nice tangy flavor that compliments the meatloaf!
7. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties bake, slice the slider buns in half. You can also lightly toast them in a skillet or in the oven for 2-3 minutes if you like a crispy texture.
8. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread a bit of mayonnaise or aioli on the bottom half of each bun. Place a warm meatloaf patty on top. Add another dollop of ketchup if you prefer, or use your favorite slider sauce.
9. Finish and Serve:
Top with the other half of the bun and secure them with a toothpick or a sprig of herb for a pop of color. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!
These sliders are rich with savory flavors, and they make an excellent choice for any gathering or just a cozy meal at home. Enjoy your delicious meatloaf sliders!
Can I Use Leaner Meat for These Sliders?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may produce a slightly drier slider, so adding a bit more seasoning or moisture can help!
What Can I Substitute for Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats work well as alternatives. For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or even ground almonds!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for about 30-60 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and either refrigerate them for up to a day or freeze them. If freezing, arrange them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge before baking!
