Sweet and Spicy Meatball Sliders

Name: Sweet and Spicy Meatball Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 12 slider buns; Lettuce leaves for garnish; Pickles for garnish

Highlighted under: Warm Plate Recipes Quick Comfort

These Sweet and Spicy Meatball Sliders are the perfect bite-sized treat for any gathering, combining juicy meatballs with a tangy and sweet sauce.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-04T06:50:29.317Z

These sliders are inspired by the classic meatball sub, but with a sweet and spicy twist that will keep you coming back for more. Perfect for parties or a casual dinner, these sliders are sure to impress!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors
Perfectly portioned for easy serving and eating
Great for game day or casual get-togethers

      

A Flavorful Fusion

The combination of sweet and spicy flavors in these meatball sliders creates an irresistible taste sensation. The barbecue sauce mixed with honey provides a deliciously sticky sweetness, while the sriracha brings a kick that elevates the dish to new heights. This flavor profile not only tantalizes the taste buds but also makes these sliders a standout choice for any occasion, whether it's a game day party or a casual family gathering.

Moreover, the addition of Parmesan cheese and parsley in the meatballs contributes a savory depth that complements the sauce perfectly. Each bite offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, making these sliders a crowd-pleaser. Guests will be coming back for seconds, and you might find yourself making a double batch!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a lively game day party, a casual family dinner, or a backyard barbecue, these Sweet and Spicy Meatball Sliders are a fantastic option. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling, allowing your guests to enjoy them without needing to sit down for a full meal. Plus, the vibrant flavors are sure to spark conversations and keep the energy high.

Additionally, these sliders are easily customizable. You can tweak the level of spice by adjusting the sriracha or even adding fresh jalapeños for those who crave an extra kick. If you prefer a milder option, simply reduce the sriracha or serve the sauce on the side. This versatility allows you to cater to a variety of taste preferences, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Make-Ahead Convenience

One of the best features of these sliders is their make-ahead convenience. You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to bake them. This is particularly useful for busy hosts who want to enjoy their event without spending the entire time in the kitchen. Just pop the meatballs in the oven and whip up the sauce while they bake.

Moreover, these sliders can also be assembled in advance. Once the meatballs are cooked and coated in sauce, you can place them on the slider buns, cover them, and keep them warm until serving. This way, you can spend more time with your guests and less time serving food, making your gathering more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sweet and Spicy Meatball Sliders:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped parsley
1 egg
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 tablespoon soy sauce

For Assembly

12 slider buns
Lettuce leaves for garnish
Pickles for garnish

Ensure you have everything ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Sweet and Spicy Meatball Sliders:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Mix Meatball Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Form Meatballs

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet.

Bake Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Prepare the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, mix together barbecue sauce, honey, sriracha, and soy sauce in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until well combined and heated through.

Combine Meatballs and Sauce

Once the meatballs are done, remove them from the oven and toss them in the sauce until fully coated.

Assemble Sliders

Place a meatball on each slider bun, add a piece of lettuce and a pickle, then cover with the top bun.

Serve

Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Sweet and Spicy Meatball Sliders!

Enjoy your sliders with your favorite sides!

Tips for the Best Meatball Sliders

To ensure your meatballs are perfectly tender and flavorful, avoid overmixing the ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy. Additionally, using fresh herbs like parsley will enhance the overall flavor profile, providing a fresher taste that dried herbs often lack.

For added texture, consider mixing in finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or onions into the meatball mixture. This not only boosts the nutrition but also adds an exciting crunch to every bite.

Serving Suggestions

While these sliders are delicious on their own, consider offering a selection of dipping sauces on the side. Ranch dressing, blue cheese, or extra barbecue sauce could complement the meatballs beautifully, giving your guests a chance to personalize their experience.

Pair your sliders with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or crispy sweet potato fries for a well-rounded meal. These sides add freshness and crunch, making your gathering even more enjoyable.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the meatballs and slider buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The meatballs will stay fresh for up to three days, while the buns can last a bit longer. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the meatballs in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

For the best texture, toast the slider buns lightly before assembling with the reheated meatballs. This will bring back their original fluffiness and make for a delightful dining experience even on the second day.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and freeze them before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if preferred.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different type of sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite barbecue sauce or even a teriyaki sauce for a different flavor.