These Easy Cheeseburger Sliders are perfect for game day! Juicy beef patties topped with melty cheese and served on soft rolls make everyone cheer for more.
Preparation is a breeze, and you can make a big batch in no time. I love serving them with crispy fries on the side because, after all, who can resist a good burger and fries combo? 🍔🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mix of 80/20 lean-to-fat is perfect for juicy sliders. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind those may be drier. Adding a little olive oil can help with moisture.
Slider Buns: I recommend using mini brioche rolls for a soft and delicious bite. If you can’t find those, white sandwich rolls work too. For a healthier twist, whole wheat buns or slider-sized lettuce wraps can be interesting options.
Cheese: Cheddar is my go-to for its flavor, but American cheese melts perfectly if that’s what you prefer. You could also try pepper jack for a spicy kick or even vegan cheese if you want a dairy-free alternative.
Toppings: Customize your sliders! I love adding grilled onions or jalapeños for an extra flavor boost. You can even offer a range of toppings like guacamole or BBQ sauce for variety.
How Do I Cook Perfect Sliders Without Overcooking Them?
Getting that perfect cook on sliders can be tricky, but it’s all about timing. Start by not cooking your patties all the way through in the skillet; they’ll finish in the oven. This method keeps them juicy and prevents dryness.
- Shape your patties slightly larger than the buns to account for shrinkage.
- Use medium-high heat for a nice sear—just 2-3 minutes per side.
- Check for doneness after baking; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
By keeping an eye on cooking time and letting the oven help melt the cheese, you’ll have sliders that everyone loves!
Easy Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe for Game Day
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy burgers)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 slider buns or small sandwich rolls (mini brioche or soft white rolls)
- 12 slices of cheddar cheese (or American cheese for classic cheeseburger flavor)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping the buns)
- Optional toppings and condiments: sliced pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, diced onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these sliders should take about 10 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes in the oven. So in just about 25 minutes, you’ll have a plateful of delicious cheeseburger sliders ready to enjoy. Perfect for game day or any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or tray with cooking spray or a bit of oil.
2. Prepare the Patties:
Take the ground beef and divide it evenly into 12 portions. Shape each portion into a small, flat patty that’s a bit wider than the slider buns since they will shrink when cooked. Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they are browned but not fully cooked through—don’t worry, they’ll keep cooking in the oven!
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Now, place the bottom halves of the slider buns in your greased baking dish. Add a cooked patty to each bun bottom. Immediately put a slice of cheese on top of each patty so it can start to melt.
5. Add Toppings:
If you want to add extra flavor, now’s the time. Customize with your favorite condiments or toppings, such as sliced pickles, diced onions, ketchup, mustard, or mayonnaise.
6. Complete the Sliders:
Cover each slider with the top halves of the buns. Brush the tops of all the buns with the melted butter, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top if you like a little crunch.
7. Bake and Serve:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the sliders are heated through. If you want the buns to toast a little, remove the foil and bake for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Enjoy!
Take the sliders out of the oven, let them cool for a moment, then slice them apart and serve warm. They’re perfect alongside fries or chips. Enjoy your melty, juicy cheeseburger sliders—happy game day!
FAQ for Easy Cheeseburger Sliders
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to add a bit of olive oil or moisture (like diced onions or grated zucchini) to help keep the patties juicy, as they tend to be drier than beef.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties and assemble the sliders without cooking them, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the oven to bake as instructed. This will save you time on game day!
How Should I Store Leftover Sliders?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
What Are Some Good Topping Ideas for Sliders?
You can customize your sliders with various toppings! Try adding crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, avocado, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can also add a nice touch. Get creative and make them your own!
