Cheeseburger Sliders (Baked Sliders Recipe)

There’s something undeniably irresistible about a batch of warm, cheesy, and juicy cheeseburger sliders fresh out of the oven. These baked sliders are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family gathering, or just craving a fun twist on classic burgers, this recipe delivers all the satisfaction of a cheeseburger in bite-sized form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

These cheeseburger sliders come together in about 30 minutes, making them a fantastic weeknight meal or party appetizer. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just season the beef, layer everything onto soft slider buns, and let the oven do the work. The buttery, seasoned topping crisps up the buns beautifully, giving them an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Unlike traditional burgers that require individual flipping, these baked sliders are made in a single batch, meaning less time at the stove and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredient Notes

Ground Beef

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef works, but it may be slightly drier. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken.

Hawaiian Rolls or Slider Buns

Hawaiian rolls are ideal because they have a soft texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory beef. However, any small dinner roll or slider bun will work.

Cheese

Classic American cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar, Swiss, or pepper jack can add a different flavor profile.

Seasoning Blend

A mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce enhances the beef’s savory depth. You can add smoked paprika or onion powder for extra flavor.

Butter Topping

A combination of melted butter, garlic, and sesame seeds brushed over the sliders before baking gives them a golden, toasty finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease and stir in Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Prepare the Slider Buns

Without separating the rolls, slice the pack in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

3. Assemble the Sliders

Spread the cooked beef evenly over the buns. Lay slices of cheese over the top, allowing slight overlap so every bite is cheesy. Place the top half of the rolls back on.

4. Make the Butter Topping

Melt butter and mix in garlic powder and sesame seeds. Brush this mixture generously over the sliders to create a golden, flavorful crust.

5. Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes until the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Let the sliders cool for a minute before slicing along the seams. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces or toppings.

Expert Tips for the Best Results

1. Use Fresh Rolls – Soft, fresh rolls will soak up the flavors better and crisp up beautifully in the oven. Slightly stale rolls might turn out too dry.
2. Don’t Overcook the Beef – The beef will continue cooking slightly in the oven, so cook it just until browned to keep it juicy.
3. Brushing the Butter Evenly – Use a pastry brush to distribute the butter mixture across the tops so every slider has that rich, golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

These cheeseburger sliders pair perfectly with classic sides like:

• French fries or tater tots for a complete meal
• Coleslaw for a fresh contrast
• Pickles, ketchup, mustard, and mayo for extra toppings
• Buffalo wings or a veggie tray if serving at a party

For a fun twist, serve these sliders with a dipping sauce like chipotle mayo or garlic aioli.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If freezing, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Reheat at 325°F for about 10 minutes to keep the buns crisp.
• Microwave: Heat in 20-second intervals but be aware that the buns may soften.
• Air Fryer: Set to 350°F for 3-4 minutes for a crispy, fresh texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the sliders and refrigerate them (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. Brush the butter topping just before baking.

2. Can I use a different meat?

Absolutely! Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even ground sausage for a flavorful twist.

3. How do I keep sliders from getting soggy?

Be sure to drain excess grease from the beef and avoid adding too many wet toppings before baking.

4. Can I add toppings inside before baking?

Yes, but stick to dry toppings like crispy bacon or sautéed onions to prevent sogginess. Fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato are best added after baking.

Conclusion

These baked cheeseburger sliders are a must-try for anyone who loves a good burger but wants a quicker, crowd-friendly option. Whether for a party, a casual dinner, or meal prepping, they’re always a hit. Try them out, and let me know how they turn out—I’d love to hear your variations and favorite add-ons!

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