Ultimate Cheeseburger Sliders

Cheeseburger Sliders bring all the beloved flavor of a classic burger into a fun, bite-sized package that’s perfect for any occasion. Featuring perfectly seasoned ground beef, generously melted cheese, and irresistibly sweet Hawaiian rolls, these sliders are elevated with a savory, tangy secret sauce and baked to golden perfection with a rich, herbed butter finish. They’re an absolute game-changer for any gathering, promising an explosion of flavor in every delicious bite.

If you’re already a fan of delicious mini sandwiches, you’ll definitely want to explore our other popular slider recipes. Be sure to save these viral French Dip Sliders or our classic Roast Beef Sliders Recipe for your next party, family meal, or potluck gathering!

From the Kitchen of Chelsea’s Messy Apron

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My Go-To Sliders That Everyone Asks Me to Bring!

As a huge enthusiast of all things sliders – seriously, my site is packed with a wide array of recipes – I have to admit, these Cheeseburger Sliders have swiftly climbed to the top of my favorites list. Marrying the undeniable comfort of a classic burger (my all-time favorite food, no doubt!) with the convenient, crowd-pleasing format of sliders was a brilliant idea that certainly didn’t disappoint. It’s the perfect culinary mash-up, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Imagine savoring all that incredible burger flavor, but in a miniature, easy-to-handle form that’s both quick to prepare and a joy to eat. The first time I brought these to a get-together, they were an instant hit! I was bombarded with requests for the recipe and pleas to bring them to every future event. They disappeared from the platter in minutes! So, after much anticipation, I’m thrilled to finally share this much-loved cheeseburger slider recipe with you. I truly hope these become a staple in your kitchen and bring as much joy and deliciousness to your gatherings as they do to mine!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe

These aren’t just any sliders; they’re a culinary experience designed for maximum enjoyment with minimum fuss. Here’s why they’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire and a staple for entertaining:

• Unforgettable Flavor Profile: Each slider packs the robust, savory taste of a classic cheeseburger, enhanced by a special tangy sauce and the subtle sweetness of Hawaiian rolls. It’s a harmonious blend that offers a nostalgic yet exciting taste experience, keeping everyone coming back for more.
• Effortless Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a casual get-together with friends, or simply need a fun and easy family dinner, these sliders are guaranteed to be a hit. Their small size makes them approachable for all ages, and their classic appeal ensures they’ll disappear fast!
• Quick & Convenient Preparation: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delectable sliders in under an hour. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal fast, or for last-minute entertaining when you want to impress without the stress.
• Perfectly Portable & Easy to Serve: Their miniature size makes them ideal for snacking, appetizers, or a main course. No need for cumbersome plates and forks for a casual event – just grab and enjoy! They’re also fantastic for transporting to potlucks or picnics.
• Customizable Fun: While the classic recipe is absolutely fantastic on its own, these sliders offer endless possibilities for customization. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, add a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits, a slice of spicy jalapeño, or caramelized onions to make them uniquely yours.
• Sweet & Savory Harmony: The unique combination of savory, seasoned beef and a zesty sauce nestled within slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls creates an addictive balance that sets these sliders apart from traditional burgers.

Essential Ingredients for Your Cheeseburger Sliders

Creating truly outstanding Cheeseburger Sliders begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this recipe so special. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to construct these miniature masterpieces:

• Hawaiian Sweet Dinner Rolls: These are the undisputed champions for slider recipes. Their inherent sweetness beautifully complements the savory beef and tangy sauce, while their incredibly soft and fluffy texture ensures a delightful bite every time. Be sure to grab a fresh, soft pack – you’ll be amazed at the difference these subtly sweet rolls make!
• Lean Ground Beef (93/7): For sliders that are rich in flavor but not overly greasy, a lean ground beef blend (such as 93% lean / 7% fat) is highly recommended. This choice ensures your sliders are hearty and satisfying without feeling heavy, allowing the other vibrant flavors to truly shine. Draining the fat is still important, but starting with lean beef helps.
• Classic Beef Seasonings: We keep it simple yet incredibly effective with a foundational blend of onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings are carefully chosen to create that quintessential burger flavor profile that everyone loves and expects from a great cheeseburger.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The key to achieving that irresistible melty goodness and a bold, delicious flavor. Sharp cheddar offers a distinct, robust taste that stands up perfectly against the seasoned beef and the tangy sauce. You have the flexibility to opt for pre-sliced cheese for ultimate convenience (aim for 12 slices for easy layering) or freshly grate a block for superior melt and a slightly richer taste.
• Garlic Herb or Plain Butter: This butter topping is not just an optional extra; it’s a crucial component! It not only infuses the rolls with an incredible savory aroma and taste but also works its magic in creating that beautifully golden, slightly crispy top crust that makes these sliders so visually appealing and texturally satisfying.
• Sesame Seeds: A final flourish of sesame seeds sprinkled generously on top of the buttered rolls isn’t merely for decoration; it gives these sliders that unmistakable, classic cheeseburger aesthetic, completing the mini-burger illusion and adding a subtle nutty flavor.

Crafting the Irresistible Cheeseburger Slider Sauce

No cheeseburger, mini or otherwise, is truly complete without a stellar sauce! Our special slider sauce is a simple yet incredibly flavorful concoction that perfectly ties all the elements together, adding that signature tang and creaminess. Here’s a breakdown of what goes into this essential component:

• High-Quality Mayonnaise: The luxurious base of our sauce, mayonnaise provides a wonderfully creamy texture and a rich, subtle foundation. Using a good quality mayo truly makes a noticeable difference in the overall flavor and the smooth consistency of the sauce, so choose wisely.
• Classic Yellow Mustard: For that signature burger tang and a hint of zesty acidity, classic yellow mustard is absolutely essential. It provides a familiar and beloved flavor that complements the beef perfectly. It’s best to stick to the traditional variety here; Dijon or grainy mustards will impart a different and potentially undesired flavor profile.
• Sweet Pickle Relish: This ingredient is a powerhouse, adding a fantastic balance of sweetness, acidity, and a delightful textural crunch to the sauce. It’s a key component for achieving that iconic “special sauce” taste, reminiscent of your favorite fast-food burger.
• Sauce Seasonings: We thoughtfully mirror some of our beef seasonings – specifically onion powder and garlic powder – to create a cohesive flavor profile across the entire slider. Additionally, we introduce paprika for a touch of warmth, vibrant color, and a slightly smoky undertone. A dash of salt ensures all the flavors are perfectly balanced and enhanced.

How To Make the Best Cheeseburger Sliders: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

Get ready to assemble these mouth-watering sliders with ease and precision. Follow these simple yet detailed steps for a truly delicious and perfectly baked result that will impress everyone:

• 1. Prepare Your Baking Station: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking. Lightly grease a standard 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper. This vital step will make for incredibly easy removal of your sliders and significantly simplify cleanup. Take your entire slab of Hawaiian rolls and carefully slice it horizontally through the middle, creating two large halves (a top and a bottom), without separating the individual rolls.
• 2. Cook the Seasoned Beef Filling: In a large, heavy-bottomed pan or skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your lean ground beef, using a spoon or spatula to break it apart into fine crumbles as it cooks. While the beef is browning, season it generously with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. Once the beef is fully cooked and no pink remains, it’s crucial to drain off any excess grease thoroughly. Let the beef cool slightly for a few minutes before proceeding – this helps prevent the mayonnaise-based sauce from separating when mixed in.
• 3. Whip Up the Signature Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk everything together vigorously until the sauce is completely smooth, creamy, and all ingredients are well combined. Reserve about 1/4 cup of this delicious sauce; this will be your perfect dipping sauce later! Gently fold the remaining sauce into the slightly cooled ground beef mixture until the beef is evenly coated and every crumble is infused with flavor. Generously spread 3 tablespoons of the prepared sauce onto the bottom half of your sliced Hawaiian rolls and another 3 tablespoons onto the top half. Any extra sauce can be stored in the fridge, covered, for future use or additional dipping.
• 4. Assemble the Slider Layers: Carefully place the bottom half of the sauced rolls into your prepared baking pan. Evenly layer half (approximately 4 ounces) of your shredded or sliced sharp cheddar cheese over the rolls. Next, spread the seasoned beef mixture in an even layer over the cheese, ensuring every roll gets a fair share of the savory filling. Finally, top the beef with the remaining cheese (the other 4 ounces), creating a second layer of melty goodness. Place this assembled bottom layer into the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. This initial baking phase allows the cheese to begin melting and the flavors to meld beautifully.
• 5. Finish with Buttery Top and Bake to Perfection: After 10 minutes, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Gently place the top slab of rolls onto the cheesy beef mixture. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the 3-1/2 tablespoons of garlic-herb butter (or your homemade seasoned butter). Use a clean pastry brush to generously spread this melted butter over the entire tops and sides of the rolls. This step is key for a golden, flavorful crust. Evenly sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds over the buttered tops for that authentic cheeseburger look. Cover the baking pan loosely but securely with aluminum foil and return it to the oven to bake for an additional 20 minutes. This steaming process helps the rolls soften perfectly and ensures the cheese fully melts without burning the tops. Finally, remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes, or until the tops are beautifully golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and thoroughly melted.
• 6. Serve Hot and Enjoy: Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Let the sliders rest for just a minute or two to allow the cheese to set slightly, making them easier to handle. Then, using a sharp knife, cut them into individual portions along the natural divisions of the rolls. Serve them immediately while hot, enjoying with any leftover dipping sauce you reserved earlier. Enjoy your perfectly crafted, incredibly delicious Cheeseburger Sliders!

Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Sliders & Easy Variations

To ensure your Cheeseburger Sliders are consistently amazing and to inspire your culinary creativity, consider these expert tips and fun variations:

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: While it’s important to brown the ground beef thoroughly, be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked ground beef can become dry and tough. Cook just until no pink remains, then immediately move to the next step to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Drain All Excess Grease Thoroughly: This step is absolutely crucial to prevent soggy rolls and an overly greasy slider. After browning the beef, ensure you drain off all excess grease. A fine-mesh strainer or even blotting with paper towels in the pan can help achieve the best results.
• Cheese Choice Matters: While sharp cheddar is a fantastic choice for its bold flavor and excellent melt, feel free to experiment! Colby Jack, American cheese, Provolone, or even a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar can offer delightful variations in melt and taste, allowing you to customize to your preference.
• Uniform Butter Distribution: When brushing the melted garlic-herb butter, ensure you apply it evenly over the tops and sides of the rolls. This promotes uniform golden-brown crust and ensures every slider boasts that irresistible buttery flavor. Don’t forget the sides for extra crispness!
• Add Extra Toppings for Fun: Want to take your sliders up a notch and introduce more complexity? Consider adding a layer of thinly sliced caramelized onions, crispy bacon bits, finely diced jalapeños (for a spicy kick), or even sautéed mushrooms right before the top layer of cheese for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
• Make-Ahead Magic: For stress-free entertaining or quicker weeknight meals, you can prepare the seasoned ground beef mixture and the special sauce a day or two in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the sliders and proceed with the baking instructions.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can be added to the beef mixture or incorporated into the slider sauce for a pleasant fiery kick.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese often melts more smoothly and offers a superior texture.

What To Serve With Your Delicious Cheeseburger Sliders

Cheeseburger sliders are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a wide variety of classic and creative side dishes. Whether you’re aiming for a classic diner feel or a lighter, balanced meal, here are some of our favorite accompaniments to complete your slider feast:

1. Crispy French Fries or Tater Tots: The ultimate classic pairing! Their salty crunch provides a delightful textural contrast to the rich, cheesy sliders, making for a truly satisfying meal reminiscent of your favorite burger joint.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: A fresh and tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the sliders. Its crisp texture and bright flavor are excellent for cutting through the savory beef and cheese.
3. Dill Pickle Spears: For that essential, tangy burger experience, serve crisp dill pickle spears on the side. Alternatively, for an extra burst of briny flavor, add a thin slice of pickle directly into individual sliders after baking.
4. Sweet Potato Fries or Roasted Sweet Potatoes: A fantastic and often slightly healthier alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries or roasted sweet potatoes offer a touch of natural sweetness that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the sliders.
5. Fresh Garden Salad: For those looking to balance their meal with something lighter, a crisp garden salad tossed with your favorite vinaigrette dressing is a perfect choice, adding freshness and nutrients.
6. Vibrant Fruit Salad: A colorful and refreshing fruit salad offers a naturally sweet and light side option, providing a lovely contrast to the hearty sliders, especially on a warmer day.
7. Classic Potato Salad: A creamy and tangy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser and a hearty, comforting companion to any slider spread, making it ideal for potlucks and picnics.
8. Onion Rings: Another classic fried side, crispy onion rings offer a sweet and savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with the sliders.
9. Corn on the Cob: During warmer months, grilled or boiled corn on the cob seasoned with butter and salt is a fantastic seasonal side.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheeseburger Sliders

Here are answers to some common questions about making and serving these delightful Cheeseburger Sliders:

• Can I prepare Cheeseburger Sliders in advance? Yes, you absolutely can! To save time, the seasoned ground beef mixture and the special slider sauce can both be prepared a day or two ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For the best texture and freshness, assemble and bake the sliders just before you plan to serve them.
• What kind of cheese works best for sliders? While sharp cheddar offers the best flavor and a classic cheeseburger experience, pre-sliced American cheese or Colby Jack are also excellent choices for their superb melting qualities and mild taste. Feel free to use your favorite melty cheese that complements beef well.
• Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! If you prefer a lighter option, lean ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for the beef. Just ensure you season it well during cooking, as these meats tend to be milder in flavor than beef and may require a bit more seasoning to achieve a robust taste.
• How do I prevent the rolls from getting soggy? The key to avoiding soggy rolls is to thoroughly drain the cooked ground beef mixture of all excess grease before mixing it with the sauce and assembling. Additionally, baking the bottom layer with cheese and beef first helps create a slight barrier, and covering the pan with foil during the initial baking phase prevents the tops from burning while the cheese melts and flavors meld.
• Can I add vegetables to the sliders? For sure! Finely diced onions or bell peppers can be sautéed with the ground beef to add extra flavor and moisture. Pickles or tomatoes can be added after baking when serving individual sliders.

Explore More Irresistible Slider Recipes

If you loved these Cheeseburger Sliders, you’re in for a treat! Our collection of slider recipes is ever-growing, offering a variety of flavors and styles to suit any occasion, from savory to sweet and everything in between. Discover your next favorite mini sandwich here:

• Banh Mi Meatballs Sliders: A unique and flavorful fusion of Asian-inspired meatballs nestled in soft rolls, offering a delightful twist.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Sliders: Experience the classic flavors of chicken cordon bleu, miniaturized and perfect for elegant appetizers or a special lunch.
• Grinder Sliders: Packed with savory deli meats, cheeses, and a vibrant dressing, these are inspired by the popular grinder sandwich, reinvented in slider form.
• Ham and Cheese Sliders: A timeless and comforting favorite, these are always a hit with kids and adults alike, simple yet incredibly satisfying.
• Monte Cristo Sliders: A delightful blend of sweet and savory, these sliders feature ham, turkey, and cheese, often dipped in egg batter and fried, then dusted with powdered sugar. Perfect for brunch or a unique appetizer.

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Cheeseburger Sliders

By Chelsea Lords

These irresistible Cheeseburger Sliders feature perfectly seasoned ground beef, layers of melty cheese, and a buttery, savory topping, all baked to perfection on soft Hawaiian rolls.

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes minutes

Servings: 12 sliders

Video

Equipment

• 9 x 13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Large pan heavy-bottomed

Ingredients

• ▢ Cooking spray

Sliders

• ▢ 12 count Hawaiian sweet dinner rolls see note 1
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 pound lean ground beef 93/7
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon salt
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ 8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese see note 2

Sauce

• ▢ 3/4 cup mayo
• ▢ 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• ▢ 3 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping

• ▢ 3-1/2 tablespoons garlic-herb butter melted, see note 3
• ▢ 1 teaspoon sesame seeds

Instructions

• 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. Without separating them, carefully slice the slab of rolls horizontally into two halves.
• 2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart and browning it thoroughly. As it cooks, season the beef with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. Drain off any excess grease and let the beef cool slightly to prevent the sauce from separating.
• 3. In a bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients (mayo, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt) until smooth. Set aside 1/4 cup of the sauce for dipping and mix the remaining sauce into the slightly cooled beef. Spread 3 tablespoons of sauce on the bottom half of the rolls and another 3 tablespoons on the top half. Store any leftover sauce in the fridge, covered.
• 4. Place the bottom half of the rolls in the prepared pan. Layer half (4 ounces) of the sharp Cheddar cheese over the rolls. Evenly distribute the seasoned beef mixture over the cheese. Top with the remaining cheese (4 ounces). Bake this arrangement without the top half of the rolls for 10 minutes.
• 5. Remove from oven and carefully add the top slab of rolls. Use a pastry brush to spread the 3-1/2 tablespoons of melted garlic-herb butter over the top and sides of the rolls. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds evenly on top. Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5–10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbly.
• 6. Serve Hot: Carefully remove the pan from the oven. Let the sliders rest for a minute or two before cutting into individual portions. Serve hot, enjoying with any leftover sauce for dipping!

Recipe Notes

Note 1: When preparing your Hawaiian rolls, keep the entire slab intact and simply slice it horizontally through the middle to create a top and bottom half. This makes assembly much easier!

Note 2: For the sharp Cheddar cheese, you have two options: either purchase an 8-ounce block and shred it yourself for a fresher melt and richer flavor, or use an 8-ounce package of pre-sliced cheese (ideally with 12 slices) for ultimate convenience. Sharp Cheddar offers the most robust flavor!

Note 3: For the garlic-herb butter, we highly recommend Kerrygold® garlic butter for its superior flavor and ease of use. Alternatively, you can easily make your own homemade version by mixing 3-1/2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

Storage: To store any leftover sliders, ensure they have cooled completely to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container or a large resealable bag and refrigerate for 3–5 days. For reheating, use the oven (preheated to 300°F/150°C for 10-15 mins) or an air fryer (275°F/135°C for 5-8 mins) until thoroughly heated; microwaving is not recommended as it can make the rolls soggy and the beef rubbery.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving |
Calories: 359kcal |
Carbohydrates: 17g |
Protein: 16g |
Fat: 25g |
Saturated Fat: 9g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 7g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 6g |
Trans Fat: 0.3g |
Cholesterol: 67mg |
Sodium: 392mg |
Potassium: 153mg |
Fiber: 0.1g |
Sugar: 5g |
Vitamin A: 347IU |
Vitamin C: 0.04mg |
Calcium: 142mg |
Iron: 1mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and is an approximation. Values may vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and preparation methods. It should only be used as a general guide.

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