Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe

There's nothing better than biting into a warm, juicy cheeseburger slider with melted cheese, perfectly seasoned beef, and a soft, buttery bun. These mini sandwiches are a hit at parties, game nights, or even as a fun family dinner option!

I first made these cheeseburger sliders for a backyard barbecue, and they quickly became the star of the show. Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, they’re now a regular feature at all our gatherings. Let me show you how to make your new favorite finger food!

Why You’ll Love These Cheeseburger Sliders

Get ready to fall in love with these irresistible cheeseburger sliders. They’re everything you love about a classic cheeseburger, but in a smaller, more shareable package.

First, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. You can have them ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute plans or weeknight dinners.

Second, these sliders are totally customizable. Whether you’re a fan of classic cheeseburgers or prefer toppings like caramelized onions, bacon, or even jalapeños, you can make these sliders your own.

Lastly, they’re just plain fun to eat! Their mini size makes them perfect for kids, and they’re great for serving as an appetizer or main course. Plus, there’s no need for utensils—just grab and enjoy.

Whether you're hosting a party or looking for a simple dinner idea, these cheeseburger sliders will become a favorite in no time.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of cheeseburger sliders is in their simplicity, but a few well-chosen ingredients can make all the difference. Here's what you'll need:

Ground Beef
Choose ground beef with a little fat content (80/20 or 85/15) for juicy and flavorful sliders. Leaner options work too, but be mindful of overcooking.

Cheese
Classic American cheese is the go-to for its perfect melt, but feel free to experiment with cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack for a twist.

Slider Buns
Soft, buttery slider buns are key! Hawaiian rolls add a touch of sweetness, making them a crowd-pleasing option.

Onions and Pickles
Diced onions and sliced pickles bring a tangy crunch. You can skip the pickles or swap them for something spicy if preferred.

Butter and Garlic
A brush of melted butter mixed with garlic over the buns elevates these sliders, giving them a golden, savory finish.

No special equipment is needed—just a baking sheet and a large skillet to bring these sliders to life.

How to Make Cheeseburger Sliders

Making cheeseburger sliders is a breeze! Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfect results every time.

1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats, dice your onions and pre-slice the cheese if needed. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles as it browns. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Add the diced onions and cook until softened. Drain any excess grease.

3. Assemble the Sliders
Slice your slider buns in half horizontally, keeping the tops and bottoms connected. Place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the buns, ensuring each slider gets a generous portion.

4. Add Cheese and Bake
Layer the cheese slices over the beef, covering every inch. Place the top halves of the buns back on. Brush the tops with melted butter mixed with minced garlic. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the buns are golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, let the sliders cool slightly before slicing them apart. Serve with your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo on the side.

These cheeseburger sliders are best enjoyed fresh, but they reheat beautifully for leftovers.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence!), here’s how to store and reheat your sliders.

Refrigerator
Store cooled sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the buns may absorb some moisture from the beef and cheese, but they'll still taste delicious when reheated.

Freezer
For longer storage, wrap individual sliders in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating
To reheat, place sliders in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. You can also use the microwave, but the buns may become softer.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about cheeseburger sliders is how adaptable they are! Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders
Add crispy bacon slices to the beef mixture before layering on the cheese.

BBQ Sliders
Mix a few tablespoons of barbecue sauce into the cooked beef for a smoky, tangy twist.

Spicy Jalapeño Sliders
Top the beef with sliced jalapeños and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Vegetarian Option
Swap the beef for a plant-based ground meat alternative. Keep the toppings classic or add grilled mushrooms for extra flavor.

Gourmet Sliders
Use brioche buns, blue cheese crumbles, and caramelized onions for an elevated take on this classic.

With so many ways to customize these cheeseburger sliders, you’ll never run out of reasons to make them. So go ahead—experiment and find your perfect combination!

Make these cheeseburger sliders for your next gathering, and watch them disappear faster than you can say, "Seconds, please!"

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