Name: Beef & Cheddar Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred); ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 12 Hawaiian slider rolls (1 package); 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional); 2 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional); 2 tablespoon ketchup (optional); Sliced pickles (optional, for serving)

Get ready for the most crave-worthy Beef & Cheddar Sliders you'll ever taste! These sliders are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with juicy seasoned beef, gooey sharp cheddar, and a buttery, golden top that'll have everyone reaching for seconds.

This recipe is a total crowd-pleaser-simple to prepare, highly snackable, and absolutely bursting with bold flavors. Whether you're hosting a game day get-together, a family movie night, or a backyard barbecue, these sliders are guaranteed to steal the show.

Inspired by classic American comfort food, these mini sandwiches pack all the punch of a cheeseburger in bite-sized form. They're perfect for sharing, but don't be surprised if you want to keep a few just for yourself!

Mini beef & cheddar sliders stacked on a tray

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Perfect for Parties: Ideal finger food for gatherings, potlucks, or casual dinners.
Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and fuss-free steps get these on the table fast.
Flavor-Packed: Each slider is bursting with savory, cheesy, buttery goodness.
Customizable: Swap toppings and cheeses to suit your crowd's tastes.

Key Ingredients for Beef & Cheddar Sliders

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Ground Beef

The star of the show! Use 80/20 ground beef for the juiciest, most flavorful sliders. Cooking the beef with onions and spices ensures every bite is savory. You can use leaner beef if you prefer, but the sliders may be a bit less moist. For a shortcut, try pre-cooked ground beef or leftover roast beef-just chop it finely for even texture.

Cheddar Cheese

Sharp cheddar delivers that signature tangy, melty layer that makes these sliders irresistible. Shredded cheddar melts more evenly, but you can also use cheddar slices. If you like a milder flavor, swap in Colby Jack or American cheese. Smoked cheddar or pepper jack adds a tasty twist!

Hawaiian Slider Buns

Soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls are the classic base for these sliders. They toast up beautifully and hold all the fillings without falling apart. Regular slider buns or dinner rolls work in a pinch. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free rolls at your grocery store.

Caramelized Onion

Finely diced onion cooked with the beef adds natural sweetness and deepens the flavor. If you're short on time, use onion powder, but fresh onion is best for texture and taste. Red onion or shallots are great alternatives for a different flavor profile.

Butter & Topping

Brushing the tops of the buns with melted butter mixed with garlic and a sprinkle of sesame seeds gives a golden, bakery-style finish. You can use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version, or try topping with poppy seeds, everything bagel seasoning, or a dash of dried herbs.

Instructions for Beef & Cheddar Sliders

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and onions. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prep the Buns

Without separating the rolls, slice the entire package of slider buns in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom slab. Place the bottom slab in a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

If desired, spread mayonnaise and ketchup on the cut side of the bottom slab for extra flavor.

Assemble the Sliders

Evenly spread the cooked beef mixture over the bottom buns. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef, making sure to cover edge to edge.

Carefully place the top slab of buns over the cheese and beef layer.

Add the Buttery Topping

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and garlic powder. Brush the tops of the buns generously with the butter mixture. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if you like.

Bake to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.

Slice and Serve

Let the sliders cool for a couple of minutes, then cut into individual sandwiches. Top with pickles if desired, and serve warm!

Recipe Variations

Give It a Kick

Love a little heat? Add a finely diced jalapeño to the beef mixture as it cooks, or sprinkle in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also swap some or all of the cheddar for spicy pepper jack.

Veggie-Loaded Sliders

Want a boost of veggies? Mix in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach with the beef. These add flavor, color, and extra nutrition without overpowering the classic taste.

Make It Gluten-Free

Simply use your favorite gluten-free slider buns or rolls. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this a super easy swap!

Switch Up the Cheese

Try Swiss, provolone, or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist. Smoked gouda also adds a rich, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with beef.

BBQ Beef Sliders

Mix 2-3 tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce into the cooked beef for a sweet and smoky version. Top with sliced red onion or a scoop of coleslaw for extra crunch!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Beef & Cheddar Sliders with a side of crispy fries, classic potato salad, or crunchy coleslaw for a complete meal. Garnish with pickle slices or fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. For a party platter, pair with chips, veggie sticks, and your favorite dipping sauces!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place sliders on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil; bake at 325°F (165°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quick option, microwave individual sliders for 30-45 seconds. Freezing is possible-wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef & Cheddar Sliders (FAQ)

Q: Can I make Beef & Cheddar Sliders ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the sliders up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to keep sliders warm for a party?

A: Keep baked sliders covered in a low oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve. This prevents them from drying out.

Q: Can I use a different kind of meat?

A: Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or even chopped roast beef all work well. Adjust seasoning as needed for the protein you choose.

These Beef & Cheddar Sliders are guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering! They're cheesy, savory, and so easy to make-everyone will be begging for the recipe. Give them a try, and don't forget to leave a comment or rating to let us know how yours turned out!