Cheeseburger Sliders

I’ve always loved making cheeseburger sliders when I want something comforting and easy and just plain fun to eat. It all started during a game night with friends when I realized I didn’t want to be flipping full-sized burgers all evening so I downsized the idea and made these juicy little guys instead. They were gone before halftime and everyone kept asking for the recipe so I knew they were a keeper.

Ever since that night, these cheeseburger sliders have become a go-to in my kitchen. Whether it’s a cookout or a quick dinner or even a weekday lunch prep and they deliver that same big burger flavor in a smaller and more manageable size. Plus they’re easy to customize so everyone gets exactly what they like and that’s a win in my book!

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Ground beef – The heart of every slider and adds juicy flavor when cooked right
• Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and brings that classic cheeseburger taste
• Slider buns – Smaller than standard buns and perfect for handheld servings
• Pickles – Add crunch and a bit of tang that balances the richness of the beef
• Salt and pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the meat’s natural flavor
• Butter – Brushed on the buns for toasting and flavor
• Optional toppings – Think ketchup, mustard, lettuce, onions, or even bacon for building your perfect bite

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl – I use this to combine and season the beef before forming patties
• Cast iron skillet or grill pan – Gives the patties a beautiful sear and locks in flavor
• Spatula – Helps flip the sliders without breaking them
• Basting brush – Great for buttering the buns before toasting
• Knife – For slicing any extra toppings like tomatoes or onions

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by preheating my skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat to get it nice and hot.

Step 2:

In a bowl, I season the ground beef with salt and pepper and then divide it into small balls and flatten them into slider-sized patties.

Step 3:

I place the patties on the hot skillet and cook them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they get that perfect brown crust.

Step 4:

Just before they finish cooking, I top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese and cover the pan briefly so the cheese melts.

Step 5:

While the cheese melts, I butter the slider buns lightly and toast them on another pan or in the oven until golden and warm.

Step 6:

Then I assemble the sliders by layering each bun with a cheesy patty and a few pickle slices.

Step 7:

I serve them warm with optional toppings on the side so everyone can build their own favorite version.

Tips

If you want to get ahead of things, I recommend shaping the patties in advance and storing them in the fridge until ready to cook. I also like using Hawaiian rolls for a slightly sweet contrast, and if you’re cooking for a crowd, you can bake the sliders all at once on a sheet pan with the buns together to save time!

Ways to Serve

Pair them with fries or sweet potato wedges for a classic meal

Serve them as part of a party platter with chips and dips

Add a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a cookout-ready combo

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cheeseburger Sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the patties in advance and reheat them when ready to serve.

What’s the best cheese for Cheeseburger Sliders?

I love using American or cheddar cheese because they melt smoothly and taste great with beef.

Can I bake the sliders instead of using a skillet?

Absolutely! You can bake the patties on a baking sheet at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes.

Do Cheeseburger Sliders freeze well?

Yes, the cooked patties can be frozen and reheated later. Assemble fresh for best texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Cheeseburger Sliders soon! They’re one of my favorite easy meals to whip up and they always bring big smiles in a small size. Let me know how yours turn out or if you add your own twist!

Happy Cooking!

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