These Cheeseburger Sliders are mini burgers packed with all your favorite flavors! Juicy beef patties sit between soft buns and are topped with cheese, pickles, and your favorite sauces.
They’re perfect for parties or a fun family dinner. I love making a big batch and watching everyone go back for seconds! You just can’t resist those little burgers! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try 90/10. For a different flavor, ground turkey or chicken can be used, just be mindful to add some fat for moisture.
Slider Buns: Classic white slider buns are soft and great. However, whole wheat or even pretzel buns add a nice twist. You can also make your own if you’re up for it!
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for that classic cheeseburger taste. If you want to shake things up, pepper jack adds a nice kick. You could also use non-dairy cheese if you have dietary restrictions.
Special Sauce: The mix of mayo, ketchup, and mustard really brings everything together. Want a zesty kick? Add some chopped pickles or hot sauce to the sauce for extra flavor!
How Can I Ensure My Sliders Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking sliders can seem tricky, but there are simple steps to follow to get it just right. Start with evenly formed patties. Here’s how to do it:
- Make the patties slightly larger than the buns since they will shrink while cooking.
- Use medium-high heat for a nice browning effect. Don’t flip them too quickly – about 3 minutes on one side before turning works best.
- Add cheese right after flipping to give it time to melt without overcooking the meat.
By following these steps, you’ll be on your way to sliders that are juicy and flavorful!
Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns
- 12 slices cheddar cheese (or American cheese)
For the Special Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For Toppings:
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onions
- 12 pickle slices
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 tablespoon butter (for buns)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it ready for toasting the buns later.
2. Prepare the Beef:
In a large bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Mix it gently with your hands or a spoon, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
3. Form the Patties:
Divide the beef into 12 equal portions and shape them into small patties that are slightly wider than the slider buns—they’ll shrink while cooking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the patties to the pan in a single layer and cook for about 3 minutes on one side until they’re browned. Flip them over to cook the other side.
5. Add Cheese:
Once flipped, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the meat is fully cooked.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are finishing up, slice the slider buns in half and lightly butter the cut sides. Toast the buns in a skillet or oven until they are golden brown for a perfect finish!
7. Mix the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and smoked paprika, if using, to create a tasty special sauce.
8. Assemble the Sliders:
Spread some of the special sauce on the bottom bun of each slider. Place a cheeseburger patty on top, then add a pickle slice, some sliced red onion, and a handful of shredded lettuce. Cap it off with the top bun.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these tasty sliders immediately with extra sauce on the side for dipping. Watch everyone enjoy these juicy, cheesy bites!
These Cheeseburger Sliders are perfect for entertaining friends and family or just a fun family dinner! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for These Sliders?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef! Just make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator overnight before preparing your sliders. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the sealed ground beef in a bowl of cold water for quicker thawing, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
How Do I Keep My Sliders from Getting Soggy?
To prevent soggy sliders, make sure to toast the buns lightly before assembling. This creates a barrier against moisture. Additionally, avoid overloading the sliders with toppings that have high water content, such as tomatoes or excess sauce, unless using them sparingly.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can form the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for a day or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper before freezing to prevent sticking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
To store leftovers, wrap each slider in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a microwave or oven until heated through. If using the oven, cover them with foil to avoid drying out.