Juicy Beef Cheese Sliders

Category: American Recipes for Busy Weeknights

These mini beef and cheese sliders pack big flavor into a small package. Seasoned ground beef is cooked until perfectly browned, then layered with melty cheese between soft slider buns. The assembled sliders are brushed with butter, optionally topped with sesame seeds, and baked until golden and gooey. Ready in just 30 minutes, they're perfect for parties, game days, or casual family dinners. Customize with caramelized onions, various cheeses, or additional toppings like pickles, lettuce, and condiments. Serve alongside fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love grabbing seconds of.

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Updated on Tue, 29 Apr 2025 22:38:42 GMT
Four beef and cheese sliders stacked on a plate. Save
Four beef and cheese sliders stacked on a plate. | krispyrecipes.com

This hearty beef and cheese slider recipe has become my go-to crowd-pleaser for gatherings of all kinds. The combination of juicy seasoned beef, gooey melted cheese, and soft, buttery buns creates irresistible mini sandwiches that disappear within minutes of hitting the table.

I first made these sliders for a last-minute Super Bowl party when I needed something quick but impressive. The entire tray was demolished before halftime, and now they're requested at every gathering I host.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef creates the savory base for these sliders use 80/20 lean to fat ratio for the juiciest results
  • Salt and pepper the essential seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the beef
  • Garlic powder adds depth without the hassle of mincing fresh garlic
  • Onion powder provides sweet aromatic notes throughout the meat mixture
  • Slider buns look for soft potato rolls for the best texture and flavor
  • Cheddar cheese offers the perfect melt factor and classic flavor buy a block and slice it yourself for superior melting
  • Melted butter creates that irresistible golden top and rich flavor use unsalted so you can control the seasoning
  • Sesame seeds optional but add a professional bakery look and subtle nutty crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the oven
Set your oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the sliders. This moderate temperature ensures the buns get golden without burning while giving the cheese enough time to melt completely.
Cook the beef mixture
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks, stirring frequently. When the beef is about halfway cooked, add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue cooking until no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes total. Drain the excess fat through a fine mesh strainer to prevent soggy buns.
Assemble the sliders
Slice your slider buns horizontally, keeping them connected if possible for easier assembly. Arrange the bottom halves in a greased 9x13 baking dish, making sure they fit snugly together. Distribute the seasoned beef evenly across all the bun bases, pressing down lightly to create a level surface. Layer the cheese slices over the beef, overlapping slightly to ensure every bite contains cheese.
Add finishing touches
Place the top bun halves over the cheese layer, pressing down gently. Brush the tops generously with melted butter, making sure to coat the entire surface for maximum flavor and golden color. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired for that professional bakery look.
Bake to perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. This initial covered baking allows the cheese to melt completely without burning the buns. Remove the foil and continue baking for 5-7 more minutes until the tops are beautifully golden and crisp. The contrast between the crisp exterior and soft interior creates the perfect texture.
A plate of beef and cheese sliders. Save
A plate of beef and cheese sliders. | krispyrecipes.com

The simple seasoning blend in this recipe might seem basic, but it creates the perfect backdrop for the beef and cheese to shine. My family particularly loves when I add a thin layer of caramelized onions between the beef and cheese. The sweet, jammy onions elevate these sliders from delicious to absolutely memorable.

Make-Ahead Options

These sliders work beautifully as a make-ahead meal. You can brown the beef mixture up to two days before assembly and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the meat slightly in the microwave before assembling the sliders. You can also assemble the entire dish up to 4 hours before baking just cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate, then add 3-5 minutes to the covered baking time.

Creative Variations

While the classic beef and cheese combination is always a winner, these sliders are incredibly versatile. Try swapping the cheddar for pepper jack and adding sliced jalapeños for a spicy version. For a Mediterranean twist, use ground lamb instead of beef, add some crumbled feta cheese, and drizzle with tzatziki sauce after baking. My breakfast slider variation uses breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, and American cheese for the perfect brunch option.

Serving Suggestions

These sliders pair wonderfully with simple sides that complement without competing. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast to the rich sliders. For casual gatherings, serve alongside sweet potato fries or homemade potato chips. A small pickle spear on each plate adds the perfect tangy crunch. For an elevated dinner presentation, arrange the sliders on a large wooden board surrounded by small bowls of different dipping sauces like spicy ketchup, honey mustard, and garlic aioli.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap individual sliders loosely in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This gentle reheating prevents the buns from becoming tough while ensuring the filling gets hot. For best results, avoid microwaving as this can make the buns soggy and the beef rubbery.

A plate of beef and cheese sliders. Save
A plate of beef and cheese sliders. | krispyrecipes.com

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the sliders up to 24 hours ahead. Keep refrigerated and covered with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, brush with butter, add sesame seeds, and bake as directed, adding about 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What are the best cheeses to use for these sliders?

While cheddar and American cheese work beautifully for their meltability, you can experiment with provolone for a smoky touch, pepper jack for heat, Swiss for nuttiness, or a combination of cheeses for more complex flavor.

→ How can I make these sliders healthier?

To reduce calories and fat, use lean ground beef (90/10 or leaner), reduced-fat cheese, and whole grain slider buns. You can also add more vegetables like sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and onions, and serve with a side salad instead of fries.

→ Can I make these sliders with other meats?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes. You may want to add a bit more seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to boost flavor when using leaner meats.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftover sliders?

For best results, reheat sliders in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent excessive browning. You can also microwave individual sliders for 30-45 seconds, though the buns won't be as crisp.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Yes, these freeze well! Cool completely, then wrap individual sliders or the whole batch tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in a 350°F oven until hot, about 15-20 minutes.

Beef and Cheese Sliders

Bite-sized sliders with seasoned beef and melty cheese, ideal for gatherings or quick family meals.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Total Time
30 min

Recipe Category: Quick & Easy Meals

Skill Level: Beginner

Cuisine Type: American

Recipe Yield: 12 Servings (12 sliders)

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 450g ground beef
02 1/2 tsp salt
03 1/4 tsp black pepper
04 1/2 tsp garlic powder
05 1/2 tsp onion powder
06 12 slider buns
07 6 slices cheddar or American cheese, halved
08 2 tbsp melted butter
09 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)

→ Optional Add-Ons

10 1/2 cup caramelized onions
11 Pickles, lettuce, and tomatoes for topping
12 2 tbsp mayonnaise, ketchup, or mustard for spreading

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Step 03

Slice the slider buns in half horizontally (keep tops and bottoms connected if possible). Place the bottom halves in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 04

Spread the cooked beef evenly over the bottom buns.

Step 05

Layer the cheese slices over the beef.

Step 06

Add any optional toppings like caramelized onions.

Step 07

Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese and beef.

Step 08

Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with sesame seeds if using.

Step 09

Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and buns are golden.

Step 10

Slice into individual sliders and serve warm.

Additional Notes

  1. Customize with different cheeses like pepper jack, provolone, or Swiss.
  2. For an extra kick, add a layer of jalapeños.
  3. Serve with French fries, sweet potato fries, or a simple salad.

Required Tools

  • Skillet
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Pastry brush (for butter)

Allergen Information

Make sure to review each ingredient for potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if needed.
  • Contains: Dairy (cheese, butter), Wheat (buns)
  • Use dairy-free cheese and gluten-free buns for dietary adaptations.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

These details are for informational purposes and aren't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Calories: 260
  • Fats: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Proteins: 16 g