Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders Recipe

There's nothing quite like a platter of cheesy ground beef sliders to kick off a gathering or make a weeknight dinner extra special. These sliders feature juicy, seasoned beef topped with melted cheese, all nestled between buttery, toasted buns. Perfect for feeding a crowd, they come together in no time and disappear even faster.

this Recipe

I first made these when I needed something quick and satisfying for a last-minute get-together. Little did I know they'd become a staple in our home, requested at every game day, family dinner, and potluck. Let’s dive into what makes these sliders so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders

Get ready to fall head over heels for these delightful sliders. They bring together the rich flavors of seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and pillowy slider buns into one bite-sized, addictive package.

First off, they are incredibly quick and simple to make. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The beef cooks up fast, and the oven does the rest of the work to melt the cheese perfectly.

They're also perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat. You can easily double the recipe for larger groups, and they’re a guaranteed hit among adults and kids alike.

Another major win? The flavor combination is out of this world. From the savory ground beef to the melted cheese and buttery slider buns brushed with a garlic-parsley topping, every bite delivers satisfying comfort.

Lastly, you can get creative with toppings and seasonings. Add your favorite condiments, swap in different cheeses, or even sneak in some veggies – the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these sliders comes from the perfect combination of fresh, simple ingredients. Let’s talk about what you’ll need to make these irresistible bites.

Ground beef is the heart of this recipe. Go for an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio to ensure juicy, flavorful patties. If you prefer a leaner mix, you may need to add a little extra moisture, like a splash of broth, to prevent dryness.

Cheese is where the gooey goodness comes in. Cheddar or American cheese slices work beautifully, melting just right over the beef and adding a rich, savory flavor. You can also experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.

Slider buns are crucial for the texture. Look for soft, fluffy buns that won’t overpower the beef and cheese. Hawaiian rolls are a popular choice for their subtle sweetness, but plain slider rolls work just as well.

Seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper elevate the beef, while a simple topping made from melted butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley transforms the buns into buttery, golden delights.

No fancy equipment is necessary, but having a large skillet and a baking dish will make the process seamless from stovetop to oven.

How To Make These Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders

Creating these mouthwatering sliders is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process, step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven warms up, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Season the beef generously with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to make sure all the flavors are evenly distributed, then set the beef aside.

Next, grab a 9x13-inch baking dish and line it with the bottom halves of your slider buns. Spread the cooked ground beef evenly over the buns, making sure every slider gets an equal amount of meat. Layer your cheese slices over the beef, allowing them to overlap slightly so every bite is cheesy and delicious.

Place the top halves of the slider buns over the cheese. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Brush this buttery mixture generously over the tops of the buns, ensuring they’re well-coated.

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the buns are warm. For a golden, crispy finish, remove the foil and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Once they’re out of the oven, let the sliders rest for a couple of minutes before slicing them apart. The total prep and cooking time is just under half an hour, making this recipe as efficient as it is tasty.

Storage Options

Leftover sliders? No problem! They store and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick snack.

To store, place any remaining sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’re planning to enjoy them later in the week, make sure they’re completely cooled before storing.

You can also freeze sliders if you want to keep them for longer. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

For reheating, the best method is to warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This way, the buns stay crisp, and the cheese gets nice and gooey again. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, though the texture may not be as perfect.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these sliders is how customizable they are. Don’t be afraid to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

If you’re a fan of spice, add some chopped jalapeños to the ground beef or use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes into the beef mixture for a subtle heat.

For a healthier twist, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Just be aware that these meats are leaner, so you may need to add a bit of olive oil or broth to keep them juicy.

Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach blend in well with the ground beef. Sauté them with the beef for added nutrients and texture without sacrificing flavor.

To change up the flavor profile, try different cheeses. Swiss or provolone offer a milder taste, while blue cheese crumbles create a bold and tangy experience. You could even make a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Experiment with your favorite toppings and seasonings to make these sliders uniquely yours. The only rule is to have fun and enjoy every bite!

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