Pull-apart cheesy meatball slider sandwiches on a blue tray.
Cheesy Meatball Sliders

A classic meatball sub, reimagined as a cheesy, pull-apart slider everyone will reach for first. Ideal for game day spreads, backyard barbecues, and busy on-the-go weeknight dinners.

Prep Time: 10 min Cook Time: 65 min Servings: 10-12 Sauce: Francesco Rinaldi Signature Sweet
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Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • 3 Tbl prepared pesto
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 jar Francesco Rinaldi Signature Sweet Sauce
  • 1 (18 oz) package Hawaiian sweet rolls
  • 12 slices mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 Tbl extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease both a rimmed baking sheet and large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, pesto and egg in a large bowl until well-combined. Shape mixture into 12 evenly sized meatballs and place onto prepared baking sheet. Bake until browned- about 30 minutes. Toss meatballs with tomato sauce in a large bowl and set aside.
  2. Meanwhile, slice all 12 rolls, without separating, horizontally in half. Arrange bottom halves into prepared baking dish. Layer on half the cheese and sprinkle with oregano. Add meatballs and sauce. Top with remaining cheese slices and bun tops.
  3. 3. Combine butter, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt. Brush butter mixture over buns, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake until golden-brown, about 10 minutes longer. 
Brown bag of fresh produce groceries; jar of Francesco Rinaldi sauce in kitchen.
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