Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders Recipe

There's something irresistible about a tray of Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders fresh out of the oven. The buttery, golden buns, gooey melted cheese, and flavorful, savory beef filling make these sliders a surefire hit for parties, game nights, or casual family dinners.

My first experience with these sliders was when I needed a quick crowd-pleaser for a last-minute gathering. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, these sliders were a lifesaver, and they disappeared in minutes! Now, they’ve become a staple in our house whenever we want something that’s equally comforting and indulgent.

Let's dive into this easy, flavor-packed recipe that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders

Get ready to be obsessed with this incredibly satisfying dish. From the taste to the convenience, these sliders have a lot going for them.

First, they are incredibly quick and easy to make. The filling comes together in one skillet, and assembly is a breeze. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you need to throw together a hearty meal in under 30 minutes.

Next, these sliders are an absolute crowd-pleaser. The combination of savory ground beef, melty cheese, and sweet, soft slider buns is a flavor explosion that people of all ages enjoy. If you’re hosting a party or need to make something that kids and adults alike will devour, look no further.

Versatility is another reason you’ll love these. You can customize the filling with different cheeses, seasonings, or even add some heat with jalapeños. It’s a recipe that adapts easily to whatever you have on hand or your guests’ preferences.

Finally, they’re perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time, then assemble and bake when you’re ready. It saves time and stress, especially when entertaining!

Now, let's talk about the key ingredients and why they make these sliders so delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders is all in the simplicity and the way each ingredient enhances the dish.

Ground beef forms the foundation of these sliders. I recommend using an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can work if you’re looking to cut back on fat, but the 80/20 gives the best texture and richness.

Onions add depth and a touch of sweetness to the beef mixture. Make sure to dice them finely so they blend well into the filling and cook down evenly.

Garlic provides a savory, aromatic kick. Freshly minced garlic works best here, but you can use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.

Cheese is what makes these sliders truly mouthwatering. Sharp cheddar or American cheese are both excellent choices because they melt beautifully, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat.

Slider buns are the soft, fluffy base that holds everything together. Hawaiian rolls are my favorite since their slight sweetness contrasts wonderfully with the savory filling. Brush them with melted butter before baking to create a golden, irresistible crust.

Optional toppings like pickles, lettuce, or special sauce can take these sliders to the next level. Customize as you like!

You'll also need a baking dish to assemble the sliders and some foil to cover them while they bake.

How To Make These Cheesy Ground Beef Sliders

Making these sliders is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a winning dish in no time.

Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks, and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you love, such as paprika or onion powder. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Next, add the finely diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This helps build the flavor and makes the filling irresistible.

Once the onions and garlic are fragrant, turn off the heat and stir in your shredded cheese. The residual heat will melt the cheese, creating a gooey, delicious mixture that holds everything together.

Prepare your slider buns by slicing them in half horizontally. Place the bottom halves in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread the beef and cheese mixture evenly over the buns, making sure every bun gets a generous amount of filling.

Place the top halves of the buns over the filling. Brush the tops with melted butter, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle on some sesame seeds or garlic powder for extra flavor. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the tops are golden brown.

Serve hot and watch these sliders disappear! Total time? Just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making these perfect for a last-minute dinner or party appetizer.

Storage Options

These sliders are just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store them properly.

To store leftovers, wrap the sliders in foil or place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

If you want to freeze them, wrap each slider individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

For reheating, the best way to maintain the texture of the buns is to use the oven. Cover them with foil to prevent the tops from getting too crispy. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the buns may become soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

These sliders are endlessly adaptable. Here are some of my favorite ways to change things up:

Spicy Sliders: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or use Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle with hot sauce or sriracha before serving.

BBQ Beef Sliders: Mix in your favorite BBQ sauce with the ground beef before adding the cheese. Top with crispy fried onions for a sweet and smoky twist.

Philly Cheesesteak Sliders: Add sautéed green bell peppers and mushrooms to the beef mixture. Use Provolone cheese for that classic Philly flavor.

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms. Make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to keep the flavor bold.

Hawaiian Sliders: Use pineapple slices and teriyaki sauce to give the sliders a tropical flair. Pair with mozzarella or Swiss cheese for a unique flavor combo.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and make these sliders your own. No matter how you customize them, they’re sure to be a hit!

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