Craving a bite-sized burger packed with flavor? Look no further than cheeseburger sliders! These mini burgers are perfect for parties, gatherings, or even a quick family dinner. In this recipe guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to create the juiciest, most delicious cheeseburger sliders right in your own kitchen. We’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even some pro tips to make your sliders truly stand out. Keep reading to learn how to master this crowd-pleasing dish!
What are Cheeseburger Sliders?
Cheeseburger sliders are small, handheld burgers, usually made with ground beef and topped with melted cheese. These mini burgers are typically served on soft, small rolls, making them the perfect appetizer or snack. Despite their size, cheeseburger sliders are loaded with flavor and can be customized with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, onions, and a variety of sauces. They’re a fantastic option when you want the full burger experience in a smaller, more manageable package.
Ingredients List for Cheeseburger Sliders
To make the perfect cheeseburger sliders, you'll need the following ingredients:
For the Sliders:
- Ground Beef (80/20 blend) – 1.5 lbs (this fat ratio provides the best balance of flavor and juiciness)
- Slider Buns – 12 small buns, preferably soft rolls like Hawaiian rolls or brioche
- Cheese Slices – 6 slices of cheddar or American cheese, cut in half (to perfectly fit the small slider size)
- Salt & Pepper – To taste (basic seasoning is crucial for bringing out the beef's natural flavors)
- Onion Powder – 1 teaspoon (adds depth to the beef's flavor)
- Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon (for that extra savory kick)
- Butter – 2 tbsp, melted (to brush on buns for added flavor and texture)
For the Toppings:
- Lettuce – Shredded or small whole leaves
- Tomato Slices – Thin slices to fit the small size of the sliders
- Pickles – Dill pickle slices (optional, but highly recommended for that crunchy, tangy bite)
- Ketchup & Mustard – Classic burger sauces (feel free to swap with your favorite condiments like mayo or BBQ sauce)
- Onion Slices – Optional, for those who love that fresh onion crunch
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about cheeseburger sliders is how versatile they are. You can easily swap out ingredients or modify the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary restrictions. Here are some popular substitutions and variations:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version of sliders. You might need to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based patties or a black bean burger mixture to create a delicious vegetarian slider.
- Cheese Varieties: Try using different kinds of cheese like Swiss, provolone, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Buns: If you’re gluten-sensitive, swap out the regular buns with gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps.
- Sauce Variations: Besides the classic ketchup and mustard, try sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or even a chipotle sauce for extra zing.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking cheeseburger sliders may seem like a simple task, but a few important steps can make all the difference in achieving the perfect bite. Follow this step-by-step guide to get juicy, flavorful sliders every time.
How to Cook Cheeseburger Sliders: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until the seasoning is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the sliders tough.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the seasoned ground beef into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into small patties that are slightly larger than the slider buns (they will shrink slightly as they cook). Aim for about ½-inch thickness.
- Preheat the Grill or Skillet: You can cook the sliders on a grill or stovetop using a large skillet. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or heat your skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil.
- Cook the Patties: Place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes on the second side. When flipping, place half a slice of cheese on each patty to melt while the second side finishes cooking. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) for well-done burgers.
- Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking, melt butter and brush it on the insides of the slider buns. Place them on the grill or in the skillet for about 30 seconds, until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble the Sliders: Once the patties are done and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble. Start by placing the patty on the bottom bun, add your choice of toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles, then finish with the top bun. Press lightly to secure everything in place.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though cheeseburger sliders are easy to make, a few common mistakes can hinder their quality. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Overworking the Beef: Mixing the ground beef too much can result in tough, dry patties. Be gentle when combining your ingredients.
- Skipping the Toasting: Toasting the buns adds a layer of texture and helps prevent soggy sliders.
- Cooking Patties Too Long: Because slider patties are smaller, they cook quickly. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can dry them out.
- Using Cold Cheese: For the best melt, make sure your cheese slices are at room temperature before adding them to the patties.
- Overloading on Toppings: Keep it simple! Too many toppings can overwhelm the flavor of the beef and make the sliders difficult to eat.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Cheeseburger sliders may be small, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look stunning on the plate. Presentation is key, especially if you're serving them at a party or special event.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Sliders
- On a Platter: Arrange the sliders on a large platter for a beautiful presentation. Stack them neatly, but not too tightly, so they’re easy to grab.
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve the sliders with an array of dipping sauces like ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, and ranch. This adds variety and lets guests customize their sliders.
- As a Main or Appetizer: Cheeseburger sliders can be served as a main dish alongside fries or a salad, or as an appetizer at a party. Their versatility makes them suitable for any occasion.
Presentation Ideas for Cheeseburger Sliders
- Skewered Sliders: Use small wooden skewers to hold the sliders together. This makes them easier to eat and adds a professional touch.
- Mini Slider Baskets: Serve the sliders in mini baskets lined with parchment paper, similar to what you’d find in a restaurant.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
Cheeseburger Slider Recipe Tips
- Pre-Make Patties: If you’re preparing sliders for a crowd, you can shape the patties in advance and store them in the fridge. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before cooking.
- Double Up on Cheese: For extra cheesy sliders, you can add another half slice of cheese, or even mix different cheese varieties for more flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your patties are perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 160°F.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze leftover cheeseburger sliders?
A: Yes! Let the sliders cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and keep them refrigerated. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat cheeseburger sliders?
A: The best way to reheat sliders is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the sliders on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes or until warm.
Q: Can I cook these on an indoor grill?
A: Absolutely! An indoor grill works just as well as an outdoor grill for these sliders. Just make sure to preheat the grill and monitor the cooking time carefully.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger sliders are a fantastic, versatile dish that everyone loves. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or a family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. With the right ingredients, a few cooking tips, and some creative presentation ideas, you can elevate these mini burgers into something truly special. Now that you’ve learned the step-by-step process, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy these delicious cheeseburger sliders!
PrintCheeseburger Sliders Recipe
These Cheeseburger Sliders are packed with flavor, featuring seasoned beef patties, melted cheddar cheese, and soft buns. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, these bite-sized burgers are easy to make and fun to eat. Serve them as appetizers or a main dish, and customize with your favorite toppings for a crowd-pleasing meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 sliders
- Category: Main Course, Appetizers
- Method: Baking, Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Cheddar cheese slices
- Slider buns
- Onion (optional)
- Pickles (optional)
- Lettuce (optional)
- Tomato (optional)
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard
- Salt
- Pepper
- Garlic powder
- Butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Form the beef into small, flat patties.
- Cook patties in a skillet until browned and cooked through.
- Place the cooked patties on slider buns and top with cheese.
- Optional: Add onions, pickles, lettuce, or tomatoes.
- Place the sliders on a baking sheet and bake until cheese is melted.
- Serve with mayonnaise and mustard, or other desired condiments.
Notes
- Use any cheese variety you prefer, such as American or Swiss.
- For extra flavor, brush buns with melted butter before baking.
- You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slider
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
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