Beef Sliders Cheddar Cheese

The first time I made sliders for a Super Bowl party, I doubled the recipe and still ran out in fifteen minutes flat. My friend Sarah actually asked if she could take home the lone remaining bun. Now I always keep extra ground beef in the freezer just in case.

Last summer my nephew helped me shape the patties and made them comically tiny like bite sized appetizers. They were adorable and actually cooked faster than expected. The kids at the party went wild for them.

Ingredients

• Ground beef 8020 blend: The fat content here is non negotiable for juicy patties, lean beef will dry out too quickly on high heat
• Kosher salt and black pepper: Generous seasoning is crucial since the patties are small and cook fast
• Garlic and onion powder: These dissolve into the beef better than fresh garlic which can burn on the hot skillet
• Cheddar cheese slices: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor punch against the rich beef
• Slider buns: Look for buns that feel slightly squishy when you squeeze them in the package
• Vegetable oil or butter: Butter adds flavor but oil handles the high heat better without burning
• Optional toppings: Red onion pickles tomato lettuce mayo ketchup build your favorite combination

Instructions

Mix the beef:

Gently combine the ground beef with salt pepper garlic powder and onion powder in a large bowl using your hands just until incorporated

Shape the patties:

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and form each into a flat patty slightly wider than your slider buns since they will shrink as they cook

Heat the pan:

Warm the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium high heat until it shimmers slightly

Cook the patties:

Sear the beef for 2 to 3 minutes per side until beautifully browned and cooked through

Melt the cheese:

Place a cheddar slice on each patty during the final minute then cover the pan to help it melt into perfect gooeyness

Toast the buns:

Split and lightly toast the slider buns for extra texture and to prevent them from getting soggy

Assemble the sliders:

Spread mayo and ketchup on the buns add the cheesy patties and top with your choice of onions pickles tomato and lettuce

Serve immediately:

Get these to the table while the cheese is still molten and the buns are warm

Save

My dad started calling these Wednesday night burgers because they are quick enough for busy weeknights but feel like weekend food. Sometimes the simplest dinners become the most anticipated.

Making Them Ahead

You can form and season the patties up to a day in advance stacking them between parchment paper in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors meld together. Just let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking so they cook evenly.

Cheese Variations

While sharp cheddar is classic pepper jack brings a nice heat that cuts through the rich beef. Swiss works beautifully if you want something milder. Provolone melts into an incredible cheese blanket that my sister actually prefers.

Serving Suggestions

Crispy oven fries or sweet potato wedges make the perfect side dish. A simple coleslaw with vinegar instead of heavy dressing cuts through the richness nicely. For parties set up a topping bar and let everyone customize their own sliders.

• Keep the patties warm in a 200F oven while you finish batches
• Butter and toast the cut sides of the buns for extra flavor
• Have extra napkins ready because these can get gloriously messy

Save

There is something wonderfully satisfying about food you can hold in one hand while laughing with friends. These sliders always seem to make ordinary nights feel like tiny celebrations.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of beef is best for the patties?

An 80/20 ground beef blend works best, providing enough fat for juicy and flavorful patties.

→ How do I melt the cheddar cheese perfectly?

Place cheese slices on patties during the last minute of cooking and cover the pan to help the cheese melt evenly.

→ Can I prepare sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook patties in advance and assemble sliders just before serving to keep buns fresh and toppings crisp.

→ What cooking methods can be used?

Sliders can be cooked in a skillet, grill pan, or even on a barbecue over medium-high heat for best results.

→ Can toppings be customized?

Absolutely, classic options include mayo, ketchup, onions, pickles, tomatoes, and lettuce but feel free to add jalapeños or mustard for extra flavor.