These cheeseburger sliders are mini burgers that are packed with flavor! Juicy beef patties topped with melted cheese all on soft slider buns. Perfect for game day or a fun family meal!
Making these sliders is super easy, and they disappear fast! I love serving them with pickles and a side of fries. Just try not to eat them all yourself—it’s a tough challenge! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: An 80/20 blend gives the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, 90/10 works, too, but the sliders might be a bit drier. For non-beef alternatives, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can also be used.
Slider Buns: Brioche is soft and buttery, making it perfect for sliders. If brioche buns aren’t available, feel free to swap in whole wheat, potato, or even mini ciabatta rolls for a different taste.
Cheese: Cheddar slices are classic, but you can experiment with American, Swiss, or pepper jack for a kick. Use dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Ketchup and Mustard: Traditional condiments, but you can switch them up by using barbecue sauce or a spicy aioli. If you’re watching sugar, try sugar-free alternatives for these sauces.
Sesame Seeds: These add a nice crunch and visual appeal. If you’re looking for alternatives, poppy seeds or even finely chopped herbs work nicely!
How Can I Ensure My Sliders Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking sliders properly is all about the timing and technique. Here’s how to achieve perfectly cooked beef squares on a skill:
- Heat a skillet on medium-high until hot. This helps achieve a nice browning.
- Cook the beef squares for 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid pressing down; you want to keep those juices in!
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Aim for 160°F (71°C) for well-done beef.
- Let them rest for a minute after cooking to ensure they stay juicy when you bite into them.
How to Make Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 12 slider buns (preferably brioche)
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
For the Condiments:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup pickles (optional)
For Topping:
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For Serving (optional):
- Fresh lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, expect to spend about 40 minutes to have these tasty cheeseburger sliders ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Beef:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything just until combined, but don’t overdo it!
2. Shape the Sliders:
Now, take the beef mixture and form it into a flat rectangle about ½ inch thick. Use a knife to cut it into 12 equal squares, which will be your slider patties.
3. Cook the Beef Squares:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each beef square for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove them from the heat.
4. Prepare the Buns:
Take your slider buns and slice them in half horizontally, keeping them all attached. Place the bottom halves in a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread ketchup and mustard on top of the bottom halves of the buns. Next, place the cooked beef squares right on top of the condiments. Then, layer the cheese slices evenly over the beef.
6. Top Off & Bake:
Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese. Brush the melted butter over the top of the buns, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for some extra flavor!
7. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is deliciously melted and bubbly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice them apart and serve with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles on the side if you like. Enjoy your homemade cheeseburger sliders!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer. Just keep in mind that leaner meats may require a little extra seasoning or moisture, as they can be drier than the recommended beef blend.
How Can I Make These Sliders Spicier?
To add some heat, you can mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the beef mixture. Alternatively, consider adding hot sauce to the ketchup or mustard before spreading it on the buns for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Sliders in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the sliders ahead of time! Assemble them up to step 7, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time for chilly sliders.
How to Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep the bread nice and soft!
