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Cheeseburger Sliders are the perfect blend of juicy beef, melty cheese, and soft rolls made for quick meals or fun gatherings. They come together easily in about 30 minutes and hold up well whether you make them ahead or serve them fresh. These sliders bring the classic cheeseburger flavor into a convenient, bitesized form that everyone will love.
I first made these for my daughter's birthday party, and they were an instant hit with both kids and adults. I loved not having to stand over a grill all day, and they disappeared faster than I could restock the platter.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: 90 10 or 93 7 lean to keep sliders juicy without excess grease. Look for fresh bright red packages with firm texture
- King's Hawaiian Rolls: or similar soft dinner rolls to provide a slightly sweet and tender bun that holds together well. Choose ones that are fresh and plump
- Cheddar cheese slices: because they melt perfectly over the beef and add sharpness. Pick a high quality block or presliced cheese with a deep orange color
- Unsalted butter: melted to brush on top of buns adding richness and helping sesame seeds stick
- Sesame seeds: for a classic diner touch and a slight nutty crunch. Get whole seeds that are lightly toasted
- Mayonnaise: for a creamy layer that adds moisture without overpowering. Use real mayo rather than lowfat for best flavor
- Onion: diced finely to add subtle sweetness and crunch to the patties. Choose firm white or yellow onions
- Seasonings: like salt and pepper to enhance the beef flavor. Freshly cracked black pepper makes the biggest difference
Instructions
- Sear the Beef:
- Place a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Add the ground beef without overcrowding. Break into small clumps and cook until browned on all sides and no pink remains. Stir frequently to prevent large chunks. This will take about 8 minutes and draws out the beefy flavor while cooking off excess fat. Spoon off the rendered fat and any liquid into a safe container.
- Season and Combine:
- Return the cooked beef to the pan if removed. Sprinkle salt and pepper evenly, then fold in finely diced onion. Stir gently to combine all ingredients without mashing the beef. Cook for another 2 minutes so the onions soften but remain slightly crisp.
- Prepare the Roll Base:
- Slice the dinner roll package away from the roll base being careful to keep the buns attached in one large slab to make layering easier. Lightly toast the bottom buns on a baking sheet for 5 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit so they hold up better to moisture.
- Build the Sliders:
- Spread mayonnaise evenly over the toasted bottom buns. Next add a layer of cheese slices directly on top to create a moisture barrier. Spoon the warm beef mixture onto the cheese layer, making sure to distribute evenly. Add another layer of cheese to cover the beef fully and seal in juiciness.
- Top and Seed:
- Place the top buns onto the assembled sliders. Brush melted butter over the entire top surface generously. Immediately sprinkle sesame seeds to ensure they stick well. This step adds flavor and texture while creating that iconic slider look.
- Bake and Serve:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the sliders uncovered on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is melted through and buns are warmed. Bake uncovered to avoid sogginess from trapped steam. Serve immediately for best texture.
I love the way layering cheese under the beef locks in moisture so the buns never get soggy. It took me a few tries to get this right but now it is a game changer every time I make sliders. My favorite memories of these come from the birthday party where kids lined up asking for seconds like they were at a carnival.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat uncovered in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a 350 degree oven for a few minutes until warmed through. To freeze, wrap the slider slab tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating using the same instructions so they keep tasting freshly baked.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option; be sure to cook thoroughly and add additional seasoning to compensate for milder flavor. You can swap cheddar cheese with Swiss or American cheese for different melt textures and tastes. Use glutenfree rolls if you need a glutenfree meal; just watch baking times as some rolls heat faster.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders pair perfectly with dill pickles, classic potato wedges, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving sauces like ketchup, mustard, or a homemade burger sauce to customize flavors. They also work well as party appetizers alongside chips or veggies. A cold beer or soda complements the hearty cheeseburger flavor and makes it festive for gatherings.
These cheeseburger sliders are ideal for parties and weeknight dinners. Serve fresh for best texture or make ahead and reheat when needed.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of ground beef works best?
Lean ground beef such as 90/10 or 93/7 is ideal to keep the sliders juicy without excess fat.
- → Can these sliders be made ahead of time?
Yes, prepare them a day in advance, refrigerate covered, and bake until heated through with cheese melted.
- → How should I reheat the sliders?
Microwave uncovered for 15-20 seconds or bake until warmed thoroughly and cheese is melted.
- → What kind of rolls are recommended?
Soft dinner rolls like King's Hawaiian Original Sweet or Savory Butter rolls work best for a classic slider texture.
- → How to keep buns from getting soggy?
Bake sliders uncovered and place cheese between buns and beef to seal in juiciness without moisture buildup.