If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun dinner idea, look no further than these Mini Cheeseburger Sliders. These bite-sized delights are loaded with all the classic burger flavors you love, served on soft slider buns, and are perfect for any occasion—from game day parties to casual family dinners.
Ingredients
For the burger patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio works best)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the toppings:
- 8-10 slider buns
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese, halved
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup sliced pickles
- ½ cup diced onions (optional)
- ½ cup sliced cherry tomatoes or 4 large tomato slices, halved
For the special sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp pickle juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Special Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, and garlic powder.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 2: Make the Burger Patties
- Preheat your grill or stovetop griddle to medium-high heat.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently to combine without overworking the meat.
- Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions and shape them into small patties, slightly larger than the slider buns (they will shrink while cooking).
Step 3: Cook the Patties
- Place the patties on the preheated grill or griddle and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
- In the last minute of cooking, add a half slice of cheddar cheese to each patty and allow it to melt.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
- Toast the slider buns lightly on the grill or griddle for added texture.
- Spread a dollop of the special sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Layer with shredded lettuce, a cooked patty, a pickle slice, diced onions, and tomatoes.
- Add another dollop of special sauce to the top half of the bun and place it over the assembled slider.
Tips for Perfect Mini Cheeseburger Sliders
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground beef, crisp lettuce, and ripe tomatoes make all the difference in flavor.
- Keep the Patties Uniform: Use a cookie scoop or kitchen scale to ensure equal-sized patties for even cooking.
- Toast the Buns: Toasted buns add a slight crunch and prevent them from getting soggy.
- Make Ahead: You can shape the patties and prepare the toppings a few hours in advance for easy assembly during the party.
- Add Variety: Offer different toppings like caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or avocado slices for a customizable experience.
Serving Suggestions
These Mini Cheeseburger Sliders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides:
- French Fries: Classic and always a hit.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: A slightly healthier and equally delicious option.
- Coleslaw: Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Onion Rings: Perfect for dipping alongside your sliders.
Variations and Substitutions
- Turkey or Chicken Sliders: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian Sliders: Use plant-based patties and vegan cheese to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
- Spicy Sliders: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture and top with jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Hawaiian Sliders: Add grilled pineapple slices and teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for beginners.
- Customizable: From toppings to sauces, you can tailor these sliders to suit any palate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a birthday party or a game night, these sliders are always a hit.
- Portable: Their small size makes them easy to serve and enjoy without utensils.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with these sliders!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Store the patties and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm the patties in a skillet or microwave before assembling with fresh toppings and buns.
- Freeze: You can freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these sliders in the oven?
A: Absolutely! Bake the patties on a lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
A: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with Swiss, pepper jack, or American cheese.
Q: Can I make the patties larger?
A: While this recipe is designed for mini sliders, you can make standard-sized burgers if preferred—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use pre-made patties?
A: Yes, but homemade patties offer better flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, pre-made ones can be a quick alternative.
These Mini Cheeseburger Sliders are proof that good things come in small packages. Perfect for gatherings, quick lunches, or even a fun dinner, they’re as versatile as they are delicious. Try them out, and don’t be surprised when they become a regular request at your table!