These Easy Cheeseburger Sliders are perfect for game day! Little beefy bites are topped with melted cheese, all nestled in a soft bun. Everyone will love them!
I mean, who can resist a cute mini burger? They disappear fast during the game! I like to serve them with ketchup and pickles on the side—easy and fun to eat while cheering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef. It has enough fat to keep the sliders juicy without being greasy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground turkey or chicken works well too, just be sure not to overcook them to keep them moist.
Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to swap it out for American, Swiss, or pepper jack for extra spice! I often mix different cheeses for more flavor, and don’t be afraid to experiment!
Slider Buns: Soft slider buns are key for these sliders. If you can’t find them, dinner rolls or Hawaiian rolls can be great alternatives. Just make sure they are not too dense.
Condiments & Toppings: This is where you can get creative! Mustard, ketchup, and pickles are standard, but think about adding some grilled onions, jalapeños, or even barbecue sauce for a twist! It can bring a fun flavor surprise to your sliders.
How Do You Ensure Your Sliders are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy sliders lies in the preparation of the beef patties and the cooking method. Start with fresh ground beef and don’t overwork it when forming the patties; handle them gently.
- Season the beef simply with salt and pepper to let its natural flavor shine. If you like, mix chopped onions into the beef for extra flavor.
- Cook the patties on medium-high heat for just a few minutes on each side. Avoid pressing down on them while cooking, as that squeezes out juices!
- When you add cheese, place it on the patties during the last minute of cooking so it can melt just right.
These tips will help you create sliders that are soft, cheesy, and full of flavor, making them a hit with your friends and family during the big game!
Easy Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe for Game Day
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80% lean for juiciness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 slider buns (small soft buns)
- 12 slices cheddar cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for topping buns)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, for mixing with beef or topping)
- Condiments and toppings as desired: ketchup, mustard, pickles, sliced tomato, lettuce
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes to make these delicious sliders, making them perfect for game day snacking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will get it ready to warm up the sliders at the end!
2. Prepare the Beef Patties:
Take the ground beef and shape it into 12 small patties. Make them slightly larger than the slider buns, as they will shrink while cooking. Don’t forget to season both sides of the patties with a little salt and pepper for flavor!
3. Cook the Patties:
In a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, cook the patties for about 3 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. The more you cook them, the firmer they’ll be, so keep an eye on them!
4. Add Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty so it can melt perfectly.
5. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, slice the slider buns horizontally while keeping them attached in a whole tray, or you can separate them into individual pieces if you prefer.
6. Brush with Butter:
Use the melted butter to lightly brush the insides of the buns. If you like, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice touch!
7. Assemble the Sliders:
Place the bottom halves of the buns in a baking dish or a rimmed sheet pan. Lay the cooked cheeseburger patties evenly over the bottom buns.
8. Add Your Favorite Toppings:
Now it’s time to add any toppings you like! You can sprinkle on some chopped onions, or add pickles, ketchup, or mustard to taste. Personalized sliders are the best!
9. Place the Top Buns:
Carefully place the top buns over the patties and press down gently to help them stick together.
10. Bake the Sliders:
Cover the whole tray with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. This step makes sure everything is warm and the flavors meld together.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take them out of the oven, slice between the buns to separate the sliders, and serve immediately. Enjoy them with your favorite game day sides like chips or fries!
This recipe makes perfectly cheesy, juicy sliders that are easy to share and such a hit at any game day gathering. Enjoy the game!
FAQ About Easy Cheeseburger Sliders
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily than beef. Keep an eye on the cooking time!
Can These Sliders Be Made Ahead of Time?
You can prep the patties and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking them. You can also fully assemble the sliders without baking them, cover with foil and refrigerate. Just bake them in the oven right before serving!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sliders?
Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to warm them through without making the buns soggy.
Can I Add Different Toppings to My Sliders?
Definitely! Customizing your sliders is part of the fun! Add toppings like jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or even barbecue sauce. Just get creative based on your taste preferences and what you have on hand!
