Description
Mini Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Sliders:
1 lb (450g) ground beef
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
12 mini slider buns (with sesame seeds, if desired)
6 slices of cheddar cheese (cut in half)
Optional Toppings:
Ketchup
Mustard
Pickles
Lettuce
Sautéed onions
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
Shape the mixture into 12 small patties, about the size of your slider buns.
2. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are cooked through.
During the last minute of cooking, place a piece of cheese on each patty and cover with a lid to melt the cheese.
3. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the slider buns on a separate skillet or in the oven for extra flavor.
4. Assemble the Sliders:
Place each patty on the bottom half of a slider bun.
Add your desired toppings (ketchup, mustard, pickles, etc.).
Cover with the top half of the bun.
5. Serve:
Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve warm. Perfect for parties, game nights, or casual dinners!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect sliders every time. First, gently combine the beef and seasonings; overmixing creates tough patties. Use a kitchen scale to divide the mixture into 12 equal portions (about 1.3 oz each) for uniform cooking. Shape them slightly wider than the buns, as they will shrink. Preheat your skillet until a drop of water sizzles. Cook patties without moving them for 2-3 minutes to achieve a good sear. Add the halved cheese slices, cover the pan to trap steam, and melt for 45-60 seconds. Simultaneously, toast the buns cut-side down in a separate dry pan until golden. Assemble immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions
These sliders are incredibly versatile. For a party, spear each with a decorative toothpick and arrange on a large board with bowls of extra toppings for DIY assembly. Pair with crispy french fries, sweet potato wedges, or a simple coleslaw. For a fun appetizer, serve alongside mini hot dogs or chicken wings. For a casual dinner, complement them with a fresh garden salad or grilled corn on the cob.
How-to Summary
In brief: Season 1 lb ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 12 small patties. Cook in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side. Top with half-slice of cheddar cheese, cover to melt. Toast mini buns. Assemble patties on buns and add desired toppings like ketchup, mustard, and pickles. Serve warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time? Yes, you can shape the patties, place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. American cheese melts beautifully, while pepper jack adds a spicy kick. Swiss or provolone are also excellent choices.
How do I keep the sliders warm for a party? Assemble them and wrap the entire platter tightly in aluminum foil. Keep in a 200°F (95°C) oven for up to 30 minutes.
Can I cook these on an outdoor grill? Yes, but use a grill mat or press the patties firmly to prevent them from falling through the grates. Cook over medium-high heat.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat patties separately in a skillet or microwave to prevent the buns from becoming soggy. Reassemble just before eating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overworking the Meat: This activates proteins, making patties dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
- Underseasoning: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Taste-test a small cooked piece of the mixture before forming all patties.
- Pressing Patties While Cooking: This squeezes out flavorful juices, leading to dry sliders. Let them cook undisturbed.
- Skipping the Bun Toast: Toasting adds crucial texture and prevents the bun from becoming soggy from toppings and steam.
- Using Cold Toppings: Using cold lettuce or pickles on a hot patty can cause the cheese to harden. Let toppings come to room temperature.
Conclusion
These mini cheeseburger sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining classic flavors in a fun, shareable format. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a perfectly juicy and flavorful bite every time. Their simplicity for a weeknight meal and scalability for large gatherings make them an indispensable recipe for any home cook. Experiment with different cheeses and toppings to make them your own, and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow.