These mouthwatering beef and cheddar sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasers. Juicy beef patties, melted sharp cheddar, and a buttery, toasted bun make these sliders irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a game-day party or looking for a quick and satisfying meal, these mini sandwiches are perfect for feeding a hungry group. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast!
Key Information:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Number of servings: 12 sliders
- Serving size: 2 sliders
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
Ingredients:
- 900g (2 lbs) ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp (30g) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp (5g) salt
- 1/2 tsp (2g) black pepper
- 12 slider buns or dinner rolls
- 12 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp (30g) butter, melted
- 1 tbsp (15g) Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp (15g) sesame seeds (optional)
- Pickles, lettuce, and sliced tomatoes (optional for garnish)
Method of Preparation:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated, but avoid overworking the beef to keep the patties tender.
- Shape the patties: Form the beef mixture into 12 equal-sized slider patties, about the size of your buns. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. For a slight pink center, cook to an internal temperature of 70°C (160°F). Place the patties on a plate and set aside.
- Assemble the sliders: Slice the slider buns in half. Place the bottom halves on the prepared baking sheet. Top each bun with a slider patty and a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. Place the top halves of the buns on top of the cheese.
- Prepare the butter topping: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and Dijon mustard. Brush the tops of the buns with the butter mixture and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
- Bake the sliders: Place the assembled sliders in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the buns are toasted and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve with pickles, lettuce, and sliced tomatoes on the side, if desired.
Tips for Culinary Success:
- Use ground beef with enough fat: An 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures your patties stay juicy and flavorful.
- Indents for even cooking: Making a small indentation in the center of each patty helps them cook evenly without puffing up.
- Customize the toppings: Feel free to add caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or your favorite sauces to elevate these sliders.
- Toast the buns: Toasting the buns in the oven with the patties prevents sogginess and adds a delicious crunch.
- Make ahead: You can shape and season the patties ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook, making preparation easier for larger gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different cheese? Yes! While sharp cheddar adds a great tangy flavor, you can use American, Swiss, or even pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Can I make these sliders in advance? Yes, you can cook the patties and assemble the sliders ahead of time. Refrigerate them and bake them just before serving to melt the cheese and toast the buns.
- Can I freeze the cooked patties? Absolutely! Cook the patties and let them cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat them in the oven or on a skillet when ready to serve.
- What side dishes go well with sliders? Sliders pair perfectly with sides like fries, coleslaw, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Can I cook the patties on the grill? Yes, grilling the patties adds a nice char and smoky flavor. Just cook them over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes per side.
These beef and cheddar sliders are a perfect balance of juicy, savory beef and tangy melted cheddar, all wrapped in a buttery toasted bun. Whether you're hosting a party, having a family dinner, or just craving a fun twist on burgers, these sliders are sure to be a hit. Customize with your favorite toppings and sides for a meal that's as versatile as it is delicious!