Who doesn’t love a good cheeseburger? These cheeseburger sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleaser—juicy, cheesy, and perfectly bite-sized for little hands or party plates.
They’re super easy to make and way more fun than making individual burgers.
My kids can’t get enough of them, and they’re perfect for everything from family dinners to game-day snacks. Let’s dive in and make this easy, kid-approved favorite together!
What You’ll Need
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juicy sliders)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 8-10 slider buns
- 8 slices of cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
For the Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp pickle juice (or apple cider vinegar)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of garlic powder
Toppings (Optional):
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced pickles
- Additional ketchup, mustard, or mayo
Pro Tips
- Don’t overwork the meat. Gently mix the seasonings into the beef to keep the patties tender.
- Use parchment paper for baking. It makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.
- Butter those buns! Brushing the tops with butter gives them a golden, bakery-fresh look.
- Make it fun for kids! Set up a slider “topping bar” with different sauces and add-ons.
- Cook to medium doneness. Overcooking can make the sliders dry. Aim for juicy perfection!
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Butter brush
- Spatula
- Knife for cutting cheese or toppings
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Try different cheeses like Swiss, pepper jack, or provolone.
- Use Hawaiian rolls for a touch of sweetness in the buns.
- Add caramelized onions or crispy bacon for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Shape the patties and store them in the fridge, separated by parchment paper, for up to 24 hours.
- Prep your toppings (slice cheese, lettuce, and pickles) and store them in airtight containers in the fridge.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Meat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Divide the mixture into 8-10 even portions and shape them into small, flat patties.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked to medium. Add a slice of cheese to each patty during the last 2 minutes of cooking to let it melt.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle juice, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Brush the tops of the slider buns with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using). Place them in the oven on a separate baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Spread a spoonful of the prepared sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy patty on top, followed by lettuce, pickles, and any additional toppings. Top with the other half of the bun and secure with a toothpick if needed.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store: Wrap leftover sliders tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to keep the buns soft and the meat juicy.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger sliders are the kind of recipe that makes everyone happy—easy to make, totally customizable, and downright delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, these little burgers are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them out, and don’t forget to leave a comment below to tell me how they turned out or ask any questions. I can’t wait to hear all about it! 🍔💛