These meatloaf sliders are mini sandwiches packed with flavor! Juicy meatloaf is topped with sweet ketchup and served on soft buns. Perfect for a fun meal!
Who doesn’t love a good slider? They’re like a party in your hand! I love making extra to enjoy later. Just warm them up, and you have a quick and tasty snack!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I suggest using 80% lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, but they may be a bit drier, so consider adding a bit more moisture.
Breadcrumbs: These are crucial for texture. If you’re out of traditional breadcrumbs, use crushed crackers or even oats. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are a great option too if you’re looking to accommodate dietary needs.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds flavor and moisture. If you don’t have onion, try using onion powder or shallots for a milder taste.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth to the flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce or liquid aminos can be an alternative, giving a similar umami kick.
What’s the Best Way to Shape the Meatloaf for Sliders?
Shaping the meatloaf is essential for even cooking and the perfect slider size. Use your hands to form the meat mixture into a rectangular loaf that is about the same width and length as your buns. Press it firmly but don’t overwork it; you want to keep it tender.
- For mini loaves, you can also create smaller, individual shapes instead of one big loaf. This helps with faster cooking and easy sandwich assembly.
- Ensure your meatloaf is about 1-1.5 inches thick for even baking.
Once formed and placed in the baking pan, spreading ketchup on top adds a nice glaze and keeps it moist. Bake until the edges are browned and the center reaches the right temperature for juiciness. Enjoy your sliders!
How to Make Delicious Meatloaf Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatloaf:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (plus extra for topping)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly:
- 8 slider buns
- Optional: lettuce leaves, cheese slices (cheddar or American)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 35 minutes to cook, making a total of about 45 minutes to get your meatloaf sliders ready. Plus, you’ll need a few minutes for assembly. It’s a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly grease a baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Soak the Breadcrumbs:
In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and milk. Let them soak together for a few minutes until the milk is absorbed and the crumbs are softened. This step helps keep your meatloaf moist!
3. Mix the Meatloaf Ingredients:
Now, add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the breadcrumbs. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until combined, but be careful not to overmix—it’ll keep your sliders tender.
4. Shape the Meatloaf:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking pan and shape it into a rectangular loaf that fits the size of your slider buns. If you like, you can make smaller mini loaves for individual servings.
5. Bake the Meatloaf:
Spread a thin layer of ketchup on top of the meatloaf for added flavor and moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until the meatloaf is cooked through, and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
6. Rest and Slice:
Once it’s done baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Slice it into slider-sized pieces that will fit perfectly on your buns.
7. Toast and Assemble:
If desired, lightly toast the slider buns to enhance their flavor and texture. Now, it’s time to assemble your sliders! Place a slice of meatloaf on the bottom half of each bun, add a little more ketchup or barbecue sauce, and top with lettuce and cheese if you like. Finally, cover with the top bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the sliders warm, and enjoy your delicious meatloaf sliders at home! They are perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
These sliders are savory, filling, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great healthier alternatives. Just be aware that you may want to add a little more moisture, such as an extra tablespoon of milk, to prevent them from being too dry.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or an oven. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meatloaf mixture and shape it into a loaf, then store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. You could even bake the meatloaf ahead of time and simply warm it when you’re ready to serve.
What Else Can I Add to the Meatloaf Mixture?
Feel free to customize the meatloaf by adding chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or celery for extra veggies. You can also experiment with different herbs or spices to match your flavor preferences!
