Irresistible Mini Burgers

These easy cheeseburger sliders are pure culinary magic! Imagine soft Hawaiian rolls generously stuffed with extra cheesy beef, all brought together with a delectable butter and mustard glaze brushed over the top. They are incredibly simple to make and come together in just minutes, making them the ultimate appetizer for your next Halloween party, game night, or any gathering you can dream of! This timeless recipe was originally posted on October 17, 2017, and remains a perennial favorite.

Cheeseburger sliders pulled apart, showing gooey cheese and tender beef on Hawaiian rolls.
Table of Contents
  1. Why These Cheeseburger Sliders Are Your Next Party Essential
  2. The Secret to the Best Cheeseburger Slider Ingredients
  3. How to Master Making Burger Sliders with Cheese
  4. Serving Up Your Cheeseburger Sliders for Success
  5. Perfect Pairings: What Goes with Burger Sliders?
  6. How to Store and Reheat Cheeseburger Sliders
  7. Burger Sliders FAQs: All Your Questions Answered
  8. Hamburger Sliders with Cheese Recipe Card

There’s nothing quite like the excitement leading up to a festive occasion, whether it’s the thrill of a holiday like Halloween or the anticipation of a big game. And just like the irresistible pull of a massive bulk candy display, some things are simply too good to pass up!

Cheeseburger sliders topped with fresh dill pickles.

While the allure of sugary snacks is undeniable, these cheeseburger sliders offer a savory, satisfying alternative that guarantees to be the star of any spread. Forget the frantic search for hidden candy; these sliders are so good, you won’t want to hide them from anyone! They’re easy enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for the grandest celebrations. Trust us, once you make these, they’ll become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.

Close-up of a cheesy burger slider on a soft Hawaiian roll, ready to be eaten.

Why These Cheeseburger Sliders Are Your Next Party Essential

These aren’t just any sliders; they’re the kind of effortless dish that consistently earns rave reviews. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it never fails to impress with its simplicity and incredible flavor. It’s truly one of those “why didn’t I think of that?” recipes – straightforward, yet utterly delicious. People are naturally drawn to familiar, comforting flavors, and these sliders deliver that in spades. They make a fantastic appetizer for any festive occasion, from a spooky Halloween bash to a casual get-together with friends, a lively game day tailgate, or even a fun, easy dinner night. Get ready for these to disappear in a flash!

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“These sliders are sooooo good and always a hit when I make them for guests!!”
– Nicole

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The Secret to the Best Cheeseburger Slider Ingredients

What makes these cheeseburger sliders so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of cheesy beef, lusciously soft Hawaiian rolls, and the bright, tangy kick of dill pickles. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to achieve this flavor explosion! With these “bad boys” in hand, you’ll undoubtedly be the star of any party.

Here’s a concise shopping list to help you gather everything you need. For the complete list of ingredients and detailed instructions, be sure to check out the full recipe card below!

  • 80% lean ground beef
  • Dry onion soup mix
  • Hawaiian dinner rolls (one package of 12)
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Butter
  • Minced dried onion
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Dijon mustard
  • Sliced dill pickles (for serving)

Cheeseburger Sliders: Creative Substitutions and Variations

While these cheeseburger sliders are absolutely perfect as is, feel free to get creative and customize them to your taste. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire your next batch:

  • Leaner Meat Option: For a lighter take, swap the ground beef with ground turkey.
  • Cheese Adventures: Instead of sharp cheddar, explore other cheeses! Pepper jack will add a delightful spicy kick, while Monterey Jack offers a milder, creamy alternative.
  • Classic American Melt: If you adore the timeless gooiness of American cheese, simply lay 12 slices directly over the beef mixture instead of using shredded cheddar.
  • Elevate Your Toppings: Take your sliders to the next level with gourmet additions. Think sweet caramelized onions, crispy cooked bacon bits, or even a zingy slice of jalapeño for a little heat.
  • Saucy Swaps: The possibilities for sauces are endless! Substitute Miracle Whip for mayo for a tangier profile. Try a ranch dressing base, or add a dash of Sriracha for a spicy twist. A smoky BBQ sauce can also introduce a delicious new dimension. Even a simple swap to ketchup instead of mayo will change the flavor profile significantly!

How to Master Making Burger Sliders with Cheese

Creating these incredibly popular cheeseburger sliders is surprisingly simple. Let’s walk through the steps to achieve cheesy, beefy perfection.

First, brown your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Here’s a little secret: stir in a packet of dry onion soup mix while it cooks. Honestly, any recipe that starts with this flavorful duo is destined for deliciousness, right? You just know it’s going to be packed with savory goodness!

Mixing cooked ground beef with mayonnaise and shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl.

Once the beef is fully cooked and drained of any excess fat, transfer it to a bowl and let it cool slightly. Then, the magic happens: stir in a generous amount of mayonnaise and a hefty handful of shredded cheese. This creates a wonderfully creamy, cheesy filling that will melt beautifully.

Next, grab your package of Hawaiian rolls. Carefully remove them from the packaging, keeping all 12 rolls connected as a single unit. Using a serrated knife, slice the entire block of rolls horizontally in half, creating a “top” and “bottom” layer, much like preparing one giant sandwich. Spread the savory beef and cheese mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls, then gently place the top half back on.

Slicing Hawaiian rolls horizontally and spreading cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom half.

Now for the pièce de résistance: the glaze! In a small bowl, melt some butter. Stir in minced dried onion, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard until well combined. This creates a rich, tangy, and aromatic topping. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the tops of the rolls with this flavorful butter mixture. This glaze is key to achieving that irresistible golden-brown crust and extra layer of flavor.

Brushing butter glaze onto the top of the sliders and wrapping them in aluminum foil for baking.

Carefully wrap the entire tray of sliders tightly in aluminum foil. This helps to steam the rolls, keeping them soft while the cheese melts and the flavors meld. Bake for approximately 30 minutes in a preheated oven. Once they emerge, golden and bubbling, good luck resisting the urge to tear into them immediately! These sliders are designed to be tiny, wonderfully greasy, and utterly irresistible – just like their name suggests. Serve them warm with plenty of sliced dill pickles for that essential sweet and sour crunch!

The universal appeal of familiar flavors is powerful. It’s why classic dishes always disappear first at a potluck. These sliders, with their comforting cheeseburger taste, tap into that same magic. They offer a deliciously cheesy, beefy experience that’s a significant upgrade from any fast-food version you might remember. Make them, and watch them vanish!

Serving Up Your Cheeseburger Sliders for Success

These versatile cheeseburger sliders are perfect for a wide range of occasions. I love to feature them as an appetizer for big events like the Super Bowl, a festive New Year’s Eve party, or really any time I’m putting out a hearty spread. Beyond appetizers, they also make for an incredibly easy and satisfying crowd-pleasing dinner. If you’re preparing them for a main meal, a good rule of thumb is to plan for kids to eat about 2 sliders and adults around 3. If you have ravenous teenagers or a larger group, it’s always a good idea to consider doubling the recipe to ensure everyone gets their fill!

Perfect Pairings: What Goes with Burger Sliders?

While these delicious sliders are substantial enough to be a standalone last-minute dinner, adding a side dish can truly complete the meal. Here are some fantastic options that pair wonderfully with burger sliders:

  • Crispy Roasted Red Potatoes: These perfectly seasoned and crispy potatoes are an ideal complement to the rich flavors of the sliders!
  • 3-Ingredient Roasted Potatoes with Crunchy Onions: If you’re already using onion soup mix for the sliders, why not extend that savory flavor to these incredibly easy roasted potatoes?
  • The Best Macaroni Salad: Add a classic, creamy macaroni salad to your spread, and you’re practically hosting a backyard cookout!
  • Easy Broccoli and Bacon Salad: Craving some veggies but don’t want to compromise on flavor? This salad combines fresh broccoli with irresistible crispy bacon.
  • Easy BLT Pasta Salad: Bring all the fresh, vibrant flavors of summer to your plate with this delightful BLT-inspired pasta salad.
Hand dipping a cheeseburger slider into a creamy sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Cheeseburger Sliders

These sliders are undeniably at their best when served fresh and warm, right out of the oven. However, if you find yourself with delightful leftovers, they can be easily stored and reheated for later enjoyment.

Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover cheeseburger sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. To warm them up, I highly recommend wrapping them loosely in foil and placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is re-melted. For a quicker option, individual sliders can be microwaved, wrapped in a single paper towel, until warm.

Freezer Storage: If you’d like to freeze leftover sliders, it’s best to wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This allows you to grab and reheat just what you need. Ensure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn and drying out. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat them from frozen in the oven (still wrapped in foil) at 350°F (175°C) for a bit longer, typically 30-40 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.

Burger Sliders FAQs: All Your Questions Answered

What makes a burger a slider?

Sliders are distinctly smaller than traditional burgers, typically measuring about 2 to 2.5 inches across. They are often served on soft, small buns and frequently incorporate onions, either cooked into the meat (like with onion soup mix in this recipe) or as a topping. Originally, sliders referred specifically to mini hamburgers, but the term has expanded to include various small sandwiches. They can be enjoyed as a main course (with multiple sliders per person) or as a popular appetizer.

What is the difference between a slider and a sandwich?

Essentially, all sliders are a type of mini sandwich, but not all sandwiches are sliders. Sliders are characterized by their small size and are almost always served on specific small, soft buns, often in a group. While historically the term “slider” was reserved for small hamburgers or cheeseburgers, today it can broadly refer to any small sandwich served on a slider bun, such as chicken, pulled pork, or even vegetarian options.

How big should patties be for sliders?

If you were making traditional sliders that feature individual burger patties, those patties would ideally be about 2 inches in diameter to perfectly fit the tiny buns. However, our easy cheeseburger sliders streamline the process by skipping individual patties entirely! Instead, you cook ground beef with dry onion soup mix, then combine that flavorful mixture with mayonnaise and cheese. This delightful blend is then spread directly onto the sliced Hawaiian rolls, creating an incredibly simple yet supremely delicious “no-patty” slider that’s a breeze to prepare.

More Tantalizing Appetizers and Sandwiches! (Great for Tailgating!)

  • The Best Chipotle Mayo: I just made these cheeseburger sliders with this sauce – it’s an absolutely fantastic combination!
  • Canadian Bacon and Havarti Cheese Sliders with Pesto Glaze: For a gourmet twist, these Havarti sliders are a must-try!
  • How to Make the Best BLT Sandwich! My ultimate take on this essential classic.
  • Cuban Sandwiches (Cubanos): Seriously, you guys HAVE to try making these at home.
  • The Best Grilled Cheese of Your Life: The name speaks for itself – prepare for an extraordinary grilled cheese experience!
  • Classic Stromboli: Another perfect dish for game day or an easy family dinner!
  • Banh Mi Sandwich: A classic Vietnamese sandwich with a delightful spicy kick.
  • Pimento Cheese, Tomato, and Biscuit Sandwiches: A deceptively simple yet utterly delicious sandwich you’ll want to devour four at a time!
  • Caprese Slider Sandwiches from The Salty Side Dish
  • Cheddar Bacon Onion Sliders from The Little Kitchen
  • Quick and Easy Cheesesteak Subs from Real Mom Kitchen

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Hamburger Sliders with Cheese





4.94 from 62 votes
Prep:

10 minutes

Cook:

30 minutes

Total:

40 minutes

Servings:

12
sliders
Easy Cheesy Cheeseburger Sliders from The Food Charlatan
These easy Cheeseburger Sliders are what dreams are made of! Soft Hawaiian rolls stuffed with extra cheesy beef, and a butter and mustard glaze to go on top. They are so easy and come together in just a few minutes. Perfect appetizer for your Halloween party! Or really, any party!

Ingredients


  • 1 pound 80% lean ground beef

  • 1 & 1/2 teaspoons onion soup mix, 1/2 package dry onion soup mix

  • 1 package Hawaiian Dinner Rolls, 12 rolls

  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

For the butter glaze


  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted

  • 1 tablespoon minced dried onion

  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

  • sliced dill pickles, to serve with

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the DRY onion soup mix.*
  3. When the meat is browned, drain off any excess fat.
  4. Transfer the ground beef to a bowl and let it cool slightly.
  5. Meanwhile, remove the Hawaiian rolls from their package, discarding any cardboard.
  6. Generously spray a large sheet of aluminum foil with nonstick cooking spray.
  7. Use a serrated knife to carefully slice the entire block of rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected. This creates a “top” and a “bottom” section. Place the “bottoms” onto the prepared aluminum foil.
  8. Stir the mayonnaise and shredded cheddar cheese into the cooled ground beef mixture until well combined.
  9. Spread the beef and cheese mixture evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Carefully replace the top half of the rolls to form one giant sandwich.
  10. In a small bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced dried onions, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well to combine. Use a pastry brush to coat the top of each roll generously with this butter mixture.
  11. Wrap the sliders tightly in foil; use the sprayed foil already underneath, and then spray another sheet of foil to cover the top, sealing the package well.
  12. Place the foil-wrapped sliders directly on the middle oven rack. (Using a sheet pan can sometimes make the bottoms too crispy, so direct placement is preferred here.)
  13. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and gooey.
  14. Remove from the oven, unwrap, and serve immediately with plenty of sliced dill pickles!
  15. While these sliders are incredibly flavorful on their own, if you enjoy a dipping sauce, simply mix together 1 part mayonnaise and 1 part ketchup. Serve alongside the sliders.

Video

Notes

*When using the onion soup mix, ensure you’re using the dry mix only – do not prepare it as soup. It can be a little annoying to only use half a package, but it’s worth it! If you’re making this for a larger crowd, you can easily double the entire slider recipe and use one whole package of dry onion soup mix for 2 pounds of ground beef.

These sliders pair wonderfully with this Chipotle Mayo recipe for an extra kick of flavor.

This recipe is slightly adapted from Allrecipes.com.

Nutrition


Serving:
1
slider
|

Calories:
289
kcal
|

Carbohydrates:
15
g
|

Protein:
12
g
|

Fat:
20
g
|

Saturated Fat:
8
g
|

Polyunsaturated Fat:
3
g
|

Monounsaturated Fat:
7
g
|

Trans Fat:
1
g
|

Cholesterol:
47
mg
|

Potassium:
177
mg
|

Fiber:
1
g
|

Sugar:
1
g
|

Vitamin A:
187
IU
|

Vitamin C:
1
mg
|

Calcium:
131
mg
|

Iron:
2
mg
Course:
Main Course
Cuisine:
American
Calories:
289
Keyword:
cheeseburger, Cheesy, easy, sliders


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