Meatball Marinara Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Soft Hawaiian rolls are filled with saucy meatballs, topped with melted mozzarella, and brushed with garlic butter. These little sandwiches make an easy family dinner, party appetizer, or game-day snack.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Servings: 12 sliders
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet, soft rolls with savory meatballs and marinara
- Gooey mozzarella on top
- Garlic butter adds a flavorful finish
- Easy to prepare with frozen meatballs
- Great for parties, game days, or a simple dinner
Ingredients
- 1 package (12 count) Hawaiian sweet rolls
- 12 cooked meatballs, thawed if frozen
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
How to Make Meatball Marinara Hawaiian Roll Sliders
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish or line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Rolls
Separate the rolls and arrange them in the prepared dish. Use a small knife to cut a round opening in the top of each roll. Gently remove a little bread from the center to make room for the meatball.
Step 3: Heat the Meatballs and Sauce
Warm the meatballs and marinara sauce in a saucepan over medium heat until the meatballs are hot and coated in sauce. If using fully cooked frozen meatballs, follow the package directions for heating.
Step 4: Fill the Rolls
Place one meatball inside each hollowed roll. Spoon a little extra marinara over the meatballs.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Butter
Stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
Step 6: Brush and Add Cheese
Brush the outside tops of the rolls with the garlic butter. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the meatballs and roll tops.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and lightly golden and the rolls are warmed through. If the tops brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil.
Step 8: Serve
Let the sliders rest for a few minutes, then serve warm with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips for the Best Sliders
- Use cooked meatballs, and heat them through before filling the rolls.
- Don’t scoop out too much bread; leave enough for each roll to hold its shape.
- Add marinara gradually so the rolls don’t become soggy.
- For extra garlic flavor, brush a little of the butter mixture around the inside edges of the rolls.
- Serve the sliders soon after baking while the cheese is gooey.
Easy Variations
Add Parmesan
Sprinkle grated Parmesan over the mozzarella before baking.
Make Them Spicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce.
Use Provolone
Replace some or all of the mozzarella with provolone for a richer, Italian-style flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Prepare the rolls and meatball filling separately up to one day ahead. Refrigerate them in covered containers, then assemble and bake shortly before serving.
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered baking dish at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade meatballs?
Yes. Cook the meatballs completely before placing them in the rolls.
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes. Thaw and heat them according to the package directions, then coat them in warmed marinara sauce.
Can I assemble the sliders ahead of time?
You can assemble them a few hours ahead and refrigerate them covered. Brush with garlic butter and add the cheese just before baking for the freshest texture.
What can I serve with them?
Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, fries, or extra marinara for dipping.
Final Thoughts
These Meatball Marinara Hawaiian Roll Sliders bring together tender meatballs, rich tomato sauce, fluffy sweet rolls, and bubbly mozzarella. They’re simple to assemble, easy to share, and satisfying enough to serve as a casual dinner or party favorite.
