Cheeseburger Sliders are mini burgers packed with juicy, flavorful beef and melty cheese all tucked inside soft, bite-sized buns. They’re perfect little handheld treats that combine all the classic cheeseburger goodness with an easy-to-eat size. I love how the melted cheese and smoky grilled patties make each slider feel like a tiny celebration.
I have to say, these sliders are one of my go-to recipes when I want something simple but always crowd-pleasing. I like to add pickles, ketchup, and maybe a dab of mustard to each one for that classic diner feel. It’s fun to let everyone build their own slider with their favorite toppings, too—makes mealtime feel interactive and relaxed.
When I serve these at casual get-togethers or game days, they always disappear fast. There’s just something so satisfying about these little burgers! Whether you’re feeding a bunch of friends or just want a fun dinner that everyone enjoys, cheeseburger sliders are a tasty and easy choice I’m happy to make again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef (80/20 blend): This fat ratio gives juicy, flavorful patties without too much grease. If you want a leaner option, 90/10 works but can be less juicy. For a twist, try ground turkey or plant-based crumbles.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts nicely and adds bright flavor. You can also use American, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for different tastes or creaminess levels.
Slider buns: Soft, small buns are key for that perfect slider bite. If unavailable, mini brioche buns or Hawaiian rolls make excellent substitutes with a slightly sweet touch.
Butter: Brushing melted butter on buns before toasting adds a rich, golden finish. Olive oil is a good alternative if you prefer a dairy-free option.
How Do You Make Juicy Sliders Without Them Drying Out?
Cooking tiny beef patties quickly while keeping them juicy can be a bit tricky. Here are some tips to get it right:
- Use 80/20 ground beef to keep enough fat for moisture.
- Don’t overmix the meat; gentle mixing keeps it tender.
- Make patties slightly larger than buns — they shrink as they cook.
- Cook on medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side for a nice crust without drying.
- Let patties rest a minute after cooking; this helps juices stay inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or grill pan – I recommend it because it browns the beef nicely and cooks quickly.
- Baking sheet – makes melting the cheese and toasting buns easy and even.
- Spatula – helps flip the patties without breaking them.
- Small knife and cutting board – for slicing buns and toppings.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch up the cheese: Swiss or pepper jack add different flavor profiles to your sliders.
- Add crispy bacon strips on top of the beef for extra crunch and smoky flavor.
- Mix chopped sautéed mushrooms into the ground beef for added earthiness.
- Use toasted brioche or potato buns instead of slider buns for a richer bite.
How to Make Cheeseburger Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 12 slider buns (soft, small sandwich buns)
- 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese, halved
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Optional toppings: sliced pickles, finely chopped onions, ketchup, mustard, lettuce, tomato slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and cook. You’ll spend a few minutes seasoning and forming patties, cooking them on the stove, toasting the buns, and assembling the sliders. Ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Patties:
Mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl. Be gentle to keep the meat tender. Shape the beef into 12 small patties, sized to fit your slider buns.
2. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet on medium-high. Cook each patty 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Place the patties on a baking sheet. Put half a cheddar slice on each patty and place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes to melt the cheese.
3. Toast the Buns and Assemble:
Slice the slider buns if needed and brush insides with melted butter. Toast them in the oven for 3 to 4 minutes until golden. Assemble sliders by putting each cheesy patty on a toasted bun bottom, adding your favorite toppings, and topping with the bun’s top half. Serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for These Sliders?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps keep the patties juicy.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Keep any leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain their flavor and texture.
Can I Make These Sliders Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook and assemble them, then cover and refrigerate. Reheat in the oven before serving to melt the cheese and warm the buns.
What’s a Good Alternative to Cheddar Cheese?
Try American cheese for a classic melt, Swiss for a milder taste, or pepper jack if you want a little spice.
