Ingredients
– 1 lb ground pork Provides the juicy, flavorful base for the meatballs
– 3 oz nduja sausage Adds a spicy, smoky depth unique to this recipe
– 1 cup breadcrumbs Helps bind the meatballs and adds texture
– 1 egg Acts as a binder to hold the meatballs together
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Enhances the savory taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced Gives aromatic intensity
– Salt and pepper to taste Balances and highlights flavors
– Ground pork Reinforces the base, ensuring you have enough for 12 meatballs
– Nduja (spicy spreadable Italian pork sausage) Core for that bold flavor
– Panko breadcrumbs Specified in the directions for added texture
– Grated onion Adds moisture and depth
– Chopped parsley For fresh herbal notes
– Black pepper To season properly
– Minced garlic Extra for more aroma
– Large egg Essential binder
– Marinara sauce For saucing the meatballs
– Arugula Key for the pesto
– Grated parmesan cheese Used in pesto too
– Toasted walnuts Adds crunch to pesto
– Olive oil For blending and sautéing
– Small red bell pepper, thinly sliced For sautéed toppings
– Small red onion, thinly sliced Complements the peppers
– Dinner rolls As the base for sliders
– Fontina cheese, sliced For melting on top
– Melted butter To brush on rolls
– Dried basil Part of the seasoning mix
– Dried oregano For extra herb flavor
– Dried parsley In the seasoning
– Garlic powder To finish the tops
Instructions
1-Getting started with nduja meatball sliders: gather all your ingredients like mincing garlic and preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C), then mix ground pork, nduja, breadcrumbs, egg, and cheese in a large bowl for that perfect blend. This method ensures your meatballs hold together well, drawing from the detailed directions in the summary.
2-Once mixed, gently shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter, to guarantee even cooking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake as outlined: first at a higher temperature to sear, then lower to let flavors meld.
3-While they bake, prepare the arugula pesto by blending arugula, parmesan, walnuts, garlic, and olive oil until smooth, which adds a fresh twist.
4-Don’t forget to sauté the sliced bell pepper and onion in olive oil until they’re soft and browned, enhancing the overall dish.
5-Finally, assemble the sliders on dinner rolls, top with pesto, veggies, a meatball, and fontina cheese, then bake again for that melty goodness.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🌿 Arugula pesto can be made up to 5 days in advance.
🍳 Meatballs can be prepared and cooked a day ahead; assemble and bake before serving.
🍞 Toast bottom buns lightly if very soft to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking and sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
