Let’s talk sliders! If you’ve ever craved a burger but didn’t want the commitment of a full-sized one, cheeseburger sliders are your best friend. Simplifying the burger experience into bite-sized portions, these sliders make for a perfect appetizer or a main dish fit for any occasion.
- 16 slices of American cheeseI prefer Boar’s Head
- 3 Tbsp. melted butter
- Pinch of garlic powder and salt
- 2 tsp. white sesame seeds
- Burger Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 Tbsp. sweet pickle relish
- 2 tsp. sugar
- 1 tsp. distilled white vinegar
- Salt and pepperto taste
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a baking sheet and generously butter the bottom with softened butter. This will prevent sticking and enhance the flavor of the rolls. Set it aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Brown the Beef
In a medium-sized sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they're soft and fragrant. Now, add the ground beef to the pan. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks for about 6-7 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. You’ll want to drain excess grease at this point—nobody wants a greasy slider!
Step 3: Season to Perfection
Once the beef is browned, stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, kosher salt, pepper, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix it all up and allow it to cook for another minute so the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Next, take your dinner rolls and slice them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves snugly in the prepared baking sheet. Whisk together the melted butter, pinch of garlic powder, and a bit of salt. Brush the mixture generously over the bottom rolls.
Layer 8 slices of cheese over the bottom rolls. Then, spoon the beef mixture evenly on top of the cheese, pressing it down gently with a wooden spoon to keep it together. Add another 8 slices of cheese on top of the beef for that glorious, cheesy goodness.
Place the top halves of the rolls over the cheese. Now, brush the tops with the remaining melted butter mixture and sprinkle on the sesame seeds.
Step 5: Bake Those Sliders
Pop the tray in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure the tops don’t brown too quickly. If needed, you can cover them loosely with foil while baking.
Step 6: Make the Burger Sauce
While the sliders are baking, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, sweet pickle relish, sugar, white vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined. This sauce will add a delightful zing to your sliders!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
When the sliders are done baking and the cheese is perfectly melted, take them out of the oven. If desired, you can brush a little more melted butter on the top for extra flavor. Slice the sliders along the rolls and serve them warm with the burger sauce on the side. Enjoy every bite!
Notes
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try using pepper jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.- Add Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives can be added to the meat mixture for fresh flavor.- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to assemble and bake.- Freezer Friendly: These sliders freeze well before baking. Simply thaw and bake when you're ready!- Mix Up the Sauce: Get creative with your sauce; add Sriracha for a kick or a splash of lemon juice for brightness.