These Easy Cheesy Cheeseburger Sliders are a fun twist on the classic burger! Picture juicy beef patties topped with melty cheese, all nestled in soft dinner rolls.
They’re perfect for game day or any casual gathering, and you can whip them up in no time. I love how you can customize them with your favorite toppings, making each bite a tasty adventure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for extra juiciness. If you want to go leaner, 90/10 works too, but they might be less moist. For a healthier option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but seasoning is key to keep them flavorful.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is great, but feel free to use other melting cheeses like American, Swiss, or Gouda. I sometimes mix different cheeses for extra flavor – think about adding some pepper jack for a bit of heat!
Slider Buns: I prefer soft dinner rolls for the fluffiness. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, there are plenty of gluten-free slider buns available now. You can also use larger buns cut down to size if that’s what you’ve got on hand.
Toppings: Onions and pickles add crunch and flavor but are optional. You can jazz up your sliders with other toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, or spicy jalapeños depending on your preference.
How Do I Ensure My Sliders Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The key to juicy sliders starts with how you cook the beef patties. Make sure not to overwork the meat while shaping the patties, as this can make them tough. Keep the thickness uniform so they cook evenly.
- Season the beef well with salt and pepper evenly before shaping.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice sear, but don’t press down on them while cooking. This keeps the juices locked in!
- Let cooked patties rest for a minute after cooking. This lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
These small steps can make a big difference in how delicious your sliders turn out! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Easy Cheesy Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls
- 12 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/2 cup pickles, sliced (optional)
- 12 teaspoons ketchup, mustard, or special sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for topping buns)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an easy party appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your sliders go in, they will cook evenly and the cheese will melt just right.
2. Shape the Patties:
Take your ground beef and shape it into 12 small patties. Make them a little bit larger than your sliders since they will shrink while cooking. Season the patties generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Cook the Patties:
In a skillet heated over medium-high, cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through. Once done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Buns:
Slice the slider buns in half horizontally. If you wish, brush the cut sides with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor and crunch. Place the bottom halves on a baking sheet or in a baking dish.
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Place one cooked beef patty on each bun bottom. Then, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. If you want, now is the time to add diced onions, pickles, and any sauces you like!
6. Top and Bake:
Cap each slider with the top half of the bun. Cover the baking pan loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the sliders are warm.
7. Final Touch:
If you prefer a crispier top, remove the foil and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will give your buns a lovely golden color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the sliders out of the oven and let them cool for just a moment before serving. These cheesy, gooey sliders are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven!
This recipe is a hit for both kids and adults alike, and you can adjust toppings to cater to everyone’s taste. Enjoy your cooking experience with these delicious sliders!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Cheeseburger Sliders
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor than beef. You may also want to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to keep it juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help keep the buns from getting soggy.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can assemble the sliders and keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled.
What Are Some Topping Variations for Sliders?
Get creative! Aside from the classic ketchup and mustard, you can try BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo. Fresh toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, and avocado will add more crunch and flavor too!
