Mini Fiery Meatloaf Sliders

Name: Mini Fiery Meatloaf Sliders
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 12 slider buns; Lettuce leaves (optional); Sliced tomatoes (optional); 1/2 cup ketchup; 1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired); 1 tsp brown sugar

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love these Mini Fiery Meatloaf Sliders! They are the perfect bite-sized treat that packs a punch. The combination of spicy seasoning with the classic meatloaf flavor creates an irresistible dish that’s great for game days or family gatherings. I usually whip these up in no time, and they’re guaranteed to disappear off the platter. The sweetness of the buns balances the spice perfectly, making them a favorite in our house. Let me show you how to make these delicious sliders!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:16:28.876Z

When I first tried to make Mini Fiery Meatloaf Sliders, I was trying to come up with a party snack that would blow everyone away. Mixing a traditional meatloaf recipe with a few spicy seasonings was a game-changer! The heat from the chili powder and a hint of garlic gives these sliders a surprising kick, making them perfect for your next gathering.

After perfecting the technique, I found that shaping the meat into small patties helped cook them faster and ensured every bite was juicy. I also recommend using slider buns that are soft and slightly sweet, as they complement the spiciness of the meat beautifully. Enjoy!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Zing from spicy seasonings enhances the classic meatloaf
Perfectly portioned for snacking or serving at parties
Moist and flavorful, with a crispy exterior

      

Texture and Flavor Balance

The contrast between the spicy meatloaf patties and the soft, slightly sweet slider buns creates a delightful balance of flavors. When baking, ensure the patties are spaced evenly on the baking sheet to promote even cooking and browning. This not only enhances the texture but also helps the sliders develop those delicious, crispy edges that provide a satisfying bite.

I recommend monitoring the patties as they bake. You want to remove them from the oven when they are browned and firm to the touch, typically around 25-30 minutes. If your oven has hotspots, consider rotating the baking sheet halfway through to ensure even cooking throughout. A reliable meat thermometer can help here; you’re aiming for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.

Ingredient Insights

The spicy flavor in these Mini Fiery Meatloaf Sliders primarily comes from the chili powder and hot sauce. If you or your guests prefer a milder version, you can reduce the chili powder or opt for a mild hot sauce. Alternatively, adding a dash of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile without adding heat, providing a unique twist to the traditional meatloaf taste.

Breadcrumbs play a crucial role in the sliders, not only providing structure but also moisture retention. If you're looking for gluten-free options, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats as a substitute. Additionally, swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken can create a leaner slider variant while still keeping the flavor intact when seasoned properly.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the sliders:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1 large egg
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
12 slider buns
Lettuce leaves (optional)
Sliced tomatoes (optional)

For the sauce:

1/2 cup ketchup
1 tbsp hot sauce (more if desired)
1 tsp brown sugar

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your sliders:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Mix the meat mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, egg, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Shape the patties

Form the mixture into small patties, about the size of the slider buns, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the sliders

Bake the patties in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and browned.

Prepare the sauce

While the sliders bake, mix the ketchup, hot sauce, and brown sugar in a bowl to create the spicy sauce.

Assemble the sliders

Once the patties are done, place them on slider buns. Drizzle with the sauce and add lettuce and tomatoes if desired. Top with the other half of the bun.

Serve and enjoy!

Your Mini Fiery Meatloaf Sliders are ready to be served. Enjoy them warm, and watch them disappear!

Dig in and savor the deliciousness!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, let the meat mixture rest for about 10 minutes before shaping into patties. This will allow the ingredients to meld together better.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare these sliders in advance, the meat mixture can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just shape the patties right before you bake them to maintain their freshness. You can also bake them in advance and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm them through without losing their moisture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked sliders. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned before.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Fiery Meatloaf Sliders are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate their appeal by offering a variety of toppings. Consider adding avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or even a creamy ranch dressing to complement the spice. Setting up a slider bar during gatherings allows guests to customize their sliders, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.

Pair the sliders with classic accompaniments like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad to balance the meal. This not only enhances the overall flavor but also makes for a well-rounded presentation. Don’t forget to serve extra hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake them.

→ What type of meat can I use?

You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze the sliders?

Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking.