These easy cheeseburger sliders are perfect for busy nights! They’re small but packed with flavor, featuring juicy beef, melty cheese, and soft buns that everyone will love.
When I’m in a rush, I love whipping these up. They cook quickly, and I can serve them with chips or a salad for a fun meal. Plus, who doesn’t love sliders? They’re just cute little bites of happiness! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken also works well, though they might not be as juicy.
Slider Buns: Traditional slider buns are great, but you can switch things up with whole wheat, pretzel, or even gluten-free buns if necessary. Just ensure they’re soft enough to hold the fillings without falling apart.
Cheese: Cheddar or American cheese is perfect for melting. If you want a bit of a twist, try pepper jack for extra zing or a blend like mozzarella and provolone for a different flavor profile.
Onion: If you’re not a fan of onion, you can skip it or substitute with sautéed mushrooms. They add a nice umami flavor without the sharpness of raw onion.
How Do You Cook Perfect Slider Patties?
Cooking the patties right is key to tasty sliders. Keeping them juicy and not overcooked makes all the difference!
- Form patties slightly larger than the buns. They will shrink as they cook.
- Cook in a hot skillet to get a nice sear on the outside, about 3 minutes per side.
- Don’t press down on the patties while cooking; this lets the juices escape and can dry them out.
Using Worcestershire sauce in the beef mixes in extra flavor, too. Just remember to season well!
Easy Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe For Busy Nights
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns or small sesame seed buns
- 6 slices cheddar cheese or American cheese, halved
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added flavor)
- Ketchup, mustard, pickles, or any desired condiments
- Lettuce and tomato slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, making a total time of about 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy nights when you need a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will prepare it for baking the sliders and ensure the cheese melts perfectly.
2. Prepare the Beef:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, if you’re using it. Mix gently with your hands or a fork, just enough to combine everything without overworking the meat.
3. Shape the Patties:
Divide the beef mixture into 12 equal portions and shape them into small patties. Make the patties slightly larger than the buns because they will shrink a bit while cooking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Now, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the hot skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on each side or until brown and fully cooked. If you’re using onions, you can add them to the skillet to sauté alongside the patties for added flavor.
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Take a baking dish or a rimmed baking sheet and place the bottom halves of the slider buns. Lay the cooked patties on top of the buns and put half a slice of cheese on each patty. Add any condiments you like—ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato, or pickles.
6. Top and Bake:
Cover the assembled sliders with the top halves of the buns. Brush the tops with melted butter to enhance flavor and give a nice golden finish. Then, cover the baking dish with foil.
7. Bake the Sliders:
Place the covered baking dish in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This will melt the cheese and warm the sliders throughout. If you like your buns a bit crispy, remove the foil after 10 minutes and bake for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully take the sliders out of the oven, and they’re ready to serve! Enjoy these gooey, cheesy sliders hot, ideal for quick dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.
These cheeseburger sliders are sure to become a favorite on busy nights! Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Just keep in mind that they may require a bit more seasoning since they have a milder flavor. Ensure that the meat is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Slider Buns?
If you don’t have slider buns, feel free to use small dinner rolls, mini bagels, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just make sure they can hold the patties and toppings without falling apart!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you find the buns getting stale, wrap them tightly in foil while reheating!
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and place them in the buns without baking. Cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to a day. When ready to serve, just brush with butter and bake as directed. Great for meal planning or last-minute gatherings!
