Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe) Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate party snack or family-friendly dinner, these Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe) are about to become your new obsession. Imagine hot, juicy beef layered with bubbling cheddar, tucked between pillowy dinner rolls, all finished with shiny, buttery tops and a sprinkle of sesame. These sliders deliver all the classic burger flavor in just a fraction of the time and effort, making them a weeknight hero or crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of these Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe) is how they turn simple kitchen staples into a craveable bite. Each ingredient holds its own, working together for that familiar, irresistible taste and texture we love about burgers—but in adorable, shareable slider form.

• Lean ground beef (2 lb, 90/10 or 93/7): Choosing lean beef keeps the sliders juicy while trimming excess fat, so you get that classic burger taste without greasiness.
• Olive oil (1/2 Tbsp): Just enough to help sauté the onions and beef, adding a subtle richness.
• Salt (1 tsp): Essential for bringing out the beef’s savory flavor.
• Black pepper (1 tsp): Adds a bit of warmth and offsets the richness of the cheese and beef.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Gives the filling a mellow, deep umami flavor without overpowering.
• Yellow onion, finely diced (1/2 large): Sautéed into the beef for a gentle sweetness and extra juiciness.
• Mayonnaise (1/4 cup): Stirred into the beef for tenderness and just a whisper of tang.
• Medium cheddar cheese, sliced (8 slices): Melts into gooey layers beneath the beef for real cheeseburger vibes.
• Medium cheddar cheese, shredded (6 oz): Sprinkled over the top for the ultimate cheesy topping.
• Dinner rolls (24): Soft and slightly sweet—these hold everything together and make every bite pop.
• Unsalted butter, melted (2 Tbsp plus extra): Adds shine and makes the rolls golden and irresistible.
• Sesame seeds (1 Tbsp): A must for that signature burger bun look and nutty crunch.

How to Make Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe)

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F and buttering the bottom of a rimmed baking sheet. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil and add the diced onions. Once they’re fragrant and slightly translucent, crumble in the ground beef. Sprinkle over the salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Keep sautéing, breaking up the beef with your spatula, until it’s just cooked through and no longer pink.

Step 2: Drain and Mix

Tilt the skillet to drain off any excess fat—this keeps the filling flavorful, not greasy. Stir the mayonnaise into the warm beef mixture right off the heat. It may seem unusual, but mayo adds moisture and richness that mimic a truly juicy burger.

Step 3: Prep the Buns and Cheese

Slice your dinner rolls horizontally to get a large top and bottom. Arrange the bottoms, cut-side up, on your prepared baking sheet. Lay the cheese slices evenly over the bread, covering right to the very edge—these will melt and help “glue” the beef layer on.

Step 4: Assemble Your Sliders

Spoon the warm beef mixture gently over the layer of cheese. Use a spatula to spread it out edge to edge, creating an even layer so every slider gets a perfect bite. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar generously on top, letting it fill every little nook.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Place the roll tops over your beef and cheese layer, cut-side down. Brush with melted butter to achieve a glossy, golden crust. Sprinkle with sesame seeds so they bake up looking just like mini cheeseburgers. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melty and the tops are beautifully golden.

How to Serve Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe)

Garnishes

A little flourish can take these sliders over the top! Set out bowls of sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and extra ketchup or mustard for everyone to customize their own. If you want to make each slider picture-perfect, tuck a tiny pickle slice and a piece of crispy lettuce under the roll top before serving.

Side Dishes

Keep the spread fun and classic—think crispy fries, a crunchy coleslaw, or a platter of baked potato wedges. Chips, roasted veggies, or even a tangy pasta salad will round out the meal and keep everyone happy. Honestly, these sliders make any side dish feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I love cutting the sliders apart and threading a decorative toothpick through each one—a tiny gherkin or cherry tomato on top is the cutest touch! Pile them up on a wooden cutting board for a rustic effect, or nestle them on a platter with vibrant greens for extra color. They even look fabulous tucked into parchment for lunchbox surprises.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe), let them cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making a fabulous next-day snack or lunch.

Freezing

Freeze individual sliders or the whole tray! Simply assemble, bake, and cool. Wrap each slider securely in plastic wrap and foil, or portion them into freezer bags. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight for easy meals down the line.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap sliders and place on a baking sheet. Warm in a 350˚F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and cheesy again. If you’re in a pinch, the microwave also works, although the buns might lose a touch of crispness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives that classic burger flavor, you can switch it up with American, Swiss, or even pepper jack if you want a little heat in your Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe).

How do I keep the rolls from getting soggy?

Lining the bottom rolls with cheese forms a barrier so the bread stays soft but not soggy, even after the beef mixture is added. Plus, draining the meat well before assembling helps tremendously.

Can I make these Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe) ahead for a party?

You sure can! Assemble the sliders up to the baking step and refrigerate, covered, for up to 4 hours. When it’s party time, just bake as directed and serve them hot and fresh.

What’s the best way to cut the sliders?

Use a sharp serrated knife to slice between the buns after baking. This keeps all the gooey cheese and beef layers intact and ensures each slider looks (and tastes!) perfect.

Can I make them with turkey or plant-based meat?

Definitely! Ground turkey or a plant-based crumbled “beef” both work well with this method. Just adjust your seasonings a bit, as they each bring their own unique flavor to Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe).

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to wow your family or impress a crowd, give these Cheeseburger Sliders (Easy, 30-min Recipe) a try. They’re everything you love about burgers—oozy cheese, tender beef, soft buns—delivered in the most fun, sharable way. Trust me, they disappear fast!

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