These Meatloaf Sliders are a fun twist on a classic dish! They combine juicy meatloaf with soft, mini buns for tasty little sandwiches everyone will love.
They’re perfect for game day or any family gathering. I like to add some cheese and a bit of ketchup on top—makes them extra yummy! Who can resist a slider? 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 for a juicy slider. If you’re looking for a leaner option, go for 90/10. Ground turkey or chicken can work well too, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times and seasonings for flavor.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together. You can substitute with crushed crackers or oats if you don’t have breadcrumbs. I sometimes use panko for extra crunch!
Onion: Finely chopped onions add flavor. If you want something milder, try using green onions or onion powder. I personally love the sweetness of caramelized onions!
Ketchup: It’s not just a condiment here! Feel free to replace it with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor or even a little mustard for a tangy twist.
Slider Buns: Use any small bread, but I love soft Hawaiian rolls. They add a touch of sweetness. Gluten-free buns work too if you need a substitute.
How Do I Ensure My Meatloaf Sliders Are Juicy and Delicious?
Getting the right taste and texture for these sliders comes down to mixing and cooking! Remember, don’t overmix the meat; it can lead to tough sliders. Aim for just enough mix to combine everything.
- Preheat your oven fully before baking ensures even cooking.
- Form the sliders gently into shapes – they should be moist, not tightly packed.
- Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they’re just right at 160°F.
Let your sliders rest before assembling. This helps retain moisture and makes for a better overall bite!
How to Make Meatloaf Sliders?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sliders:
- Slider buns (12 count)
- Optional toppings: mayonnaise, lettuce, sliced red onion, cheese slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. After that, give it around 5 minutes to rest before serving. So, about 45 minutes in total for delicious meatloaf sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’ll be nice and warm when you’re ready to bake!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with finely chopped onion, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, minced garlic, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want soft sliders!
3. Shape the Meatloaf:
Now, you can form the meat mixture into a small loaf shape or divide it into 12 equal mini patties. If you prefer sliders, patties are the way to go!
4. Prepare for Baking:
Place your meatloaf-shaped piece or patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish. This will keep them from sticking and make cleanup easier!
5. Bake:
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You want the internal temperature to reach 160°F (71°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
6. Glaze with Ketchup:
During the last 5 to 7 minutes of baking, brush some extra ketchup on top of the meatloaf or patties. This will give them a delicious glaze!
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, take them out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
8. Prepare the Buns:
While the meatloaf rests, slice the slider buns in half. If you like, you can lightly toast them for a bit of crunch!
9. Assemble the Sliders:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Place a slice of meatloaf or a patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add your preferred toppings like ketchup, mayonnaise, lettuce, and sliced onions. If you love cheese, add a slice on top too!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on each slider and serve them warm. Enjoy your tasty meatloaf sliders with family or friends—they’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it might need additional seasoning since it has a milder flavor compared to beef. Adding an extra tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or some spices can enhance the taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up or bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that freshly baked taste!
Can I Freeze These Sliders?
Yes, you can! After cooking and cooling, wrap the sliders tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm them up as mentioned above.
What Toppings Pair Well with Meatloaf Sliders?
There are plenty of delicious toppings you can try! Classic options include mayonnaise, lettuce, and sliced red onions. Cheese slices, pickles, or even BBQ sauce can add a nice twist. Feel free to get creative based on your preferences!