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Spaghetti sliders are my answer to hectic weeknight dinners when everyone wants something fun but filling. These cheesy little sandwiches use up leftover spaghetti and transform it into irresistible hand-held comfort food for anyone who loves pasta and garlic bread in the same bite.
I first made these when my fridge was overflowing with leftover pasta and a half-bag of rolls. Now my family specifically asks me to save noodles for “slider night” because it is such a hit.
Ingredients
- Spaghetti noodles and sauce: using your favorite recipe creates the saucy pasta center that makes these sliders special and using leftovers saves time
- Soft rolls: anything from hamburger buns to kaiser rolls or your favorite bakery option just make sure they are soft enough to hold the filling but sturdy enough to not fall apart
- Mozzarella cheese: freshly grated gives the best melt and choose a whole milk version for creaminess
- Butter: melted so you can brush the tops for buttery flavor and a crisp finish
- Parmesan cheese: grated for added salty flavor and crispness on top seek out real Parmigiano Reggiano if you can
- Garlic salt: adds a garlicky kick and choose a blend with parsley if you like extra freshness
- Italian seasoning: gives a classic herby touch select a blend with oregano and basil for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Your Baking Sheet:
- Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and coat with nonstick spray so nothing sticks and cleanup is easy
- Prepare and Layer Rolls:
- Slice your rolls in half and lay bottoms on the prepared sheet then add a layer of mozzarella cheese to each bottom half pushing cheese to the edges for extra meltiness
- Add Spaghetti Filling:
- Spoon a generous portion of spaghetti with sauce over the cheese letting the pasta mound in the center as much or as little as you like
- Top with Cheese:
- Add an extra layer of mozzarella on top of the pasta so the cheese pulls everything together as it melts
- Assemble and Flavor the Tops:
- Place the tops of the rolls back on each sandwich then brush each with melted butter so the toppings stick and the rolls crisp up
- Season the Rolls:
- Sprinkle as much grated Parmesan cheese garlic salt and Italian seasoning as you would use for garlic bread over the tops for a burst of flavor and color
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake at 350 degrees until the cheese is melted and the spaghetti is hot through usually about 20 to 30 minutes depending on size and amount of filling
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My family always jokes about who stacks their slider the highest. Personally I never skip extra cheese and always load up on the garlic salt because it reminds me of childhood garlic bread feasts with my siblings.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to crisp them back up. They will keep well for up to two days but are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for the gooiest cheese.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of mozzarella swap in provolone or even cheddar for a different flavor. You can use any type of soft roll or bun or even try this with small ciabatta rolls for a chewier texture. For added protein use any leftover meatball slices or sautéed vegetables in with the spaghetti.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these sliders with a crisp green salad and fresh fruit for a balanced meal. They are also great with a veggie tray or a simple bowl of minestrone soup. For party platters cut each slider in half for smaller hand-held bites and watch them disappear fast.
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Cultural Note
Turning spaghetti into sandwich form is a fun American twist on classic Italian flavors. It is like a cross between spaghetti night and a sub shop classic something that always gets everyone at the table talking and smiling.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use any type of bread for the sliders?
Absolutely! Hamburger buns, kaiser rolls, or any sturdy roll work well. Just choose your favorite variety for the base.
- → Is it okay to use leftover spaghetti?
Yes, leftover spaghetti with sauce is perfect and can be warmed inside the rolls during baking for added flavor and convenience.
- → What kind of cheese tastes best?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, making it a top choice. Parmesan adds extra flavor. Mix in provolone or Italian blends to suit your taste.
- → How do I keep the sliders from getting soggy?
Drain spaghetti well before assembling and avoid too much sauce. Pre-baking the bottoms slightly can also help keep rolls crisp.
- → Can I add meat to the spaghetti?
Yes, ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken make delicious additions. Use whatever you enjoy or have on hand.