Ingredients

Crafting these delectable sliders requires a handful of common pantry staples, ensuring that a fantastic meal is always within reach. The combination of savory beef, tangy condiments, and gooey cheese creates a flavor profile that’s both classic and irresistible.

Adjust servings:

• 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet and pungent aromatic base to the beef mixture. Dicing it finely ensures it blends seamlessly.
• 1 lb ground beef: The star of our sliders. Opt for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for a juicy patty without being overly greasy.
• 1 tbsp dill pickle relish: Provides a fantastic tangy crunch and classic burger flavor. Don’t skip this for that authentic slider taste!
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard: Adds a sharp, piquant note that complements the beef and cheese beautifully.
• 1 tbsp mayonnaise: Contributes a creamy richness and helps bind the beef mixture, keeping it moist.
• 2 tbsp ketchup: A touch of sweetness and umami that is essential for a well-rounded burger flavor.
• 12 dinner rolls: Often found as Hawaiian rolls or sweet dinner rolls, these provide the perfect soft, slightly sweet base for sliders. King’s Hawaiian rolls are a popular choice.
• 8 slices cheddar cheese: Melts wonderfully, adding that signature gooey, sharp cheese flavor. You can use American, Swiss, or provolone for variations.
• 2 tbsp melted butter: Brushed over the tops of the rolls, it helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust and adds richness.
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds: For that iconic burger bun look and a subtle nutty flavor.

Instructions

These sliders come together incredibly fast, making them a true weeknight hero. Follow these simple steps for a perfect batch every time:

1. Prepare for Baking: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This ensures your sliders bake quickly and evenly once assembled.
2. Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet or pan, place it over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onion and ground beef. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the ground beef into small, crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions are softened and translucent, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain and Flavor the Beef: Once the beef is cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the pan. This step is crucial for preventing soggy sliders. Return the pan to the heat, then stir in the dill pickle relish, yellow mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup until all ingredients are well combined and the beef is coated. Reduce the heat to low to keep the mixture warm.
4. Assemble the Sliders: Take your dinner rolls and carefully slice them in half horizontally, keeping all the tops connected and all the bottoms connected. Place the bottom half of the rolls onto a large baking sheet. Arrange the 8 slices of cheddar cheese evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Spoon the flavorful hamburger mixture over the cheese-covered bottom rolls, spreading it out to form an even layer. Finally, carefully place the top half of the dinner rolls back onto the hamburger mixture.
5. Butter and Bake: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and sesame seeds. Mix them well. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter and sesame seed mixture over the tops of the assembled sliders. This will give them a beautiful golden sheen and a delicious nutty crust. Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops of the rolls are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.

Tips for Perfect Sliders

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Ground beef cooks quickly. Overcooking can make it dry. Cook until just browned, then drain the fat immediately.
• Evenly Spread the Beef: When layering the beef mixture onto the rolls, try to spread it as evenly as possible. This ensures every slider has a good amount of filling.
• Cheese Choice: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like American for ultimate melt, Monterey Jack for mildness, or pepper jack for a kick.
• Watch the Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking your sliders at the 5-minute mark to ensure they don’t get too dark, especially if your rolls are already slightly toasted.
• Customizable Condiments: Adjust the amounts of relish, mustard, mayonnaise, and ketchup to suit your personal taste preferences. Some might prefer more tang, others more sweetness.
• Serve Immediately: Sliders are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven when the cheese is perfectly melted and the rolls are warm and soft.

Serving Suggestions

These hamburger sliders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Classic Fries: Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries are always a perfect match.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the sliders.
• Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegary coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast in texture and flavor.
• Pickle Spears: Extra dill pickle spears on the side enhance that tangy burger experience.
• Onion Rings: For an indulgent touch, serve with a side of crunchy onion rings.
• Potato Salad: A hearty potato salad is a great option for a more substantial meal.
• Veggie Sticks with Dip: Keep it light with carrots, celery, and bell pepper strips served with ranch or hummus.

Creative Variations to Try

Once you master the basic recipe, don’t hesitate to get creative! Sliders are fantastic for experimenting with different flavors:

• Breakfast Sliders: Replace ground beef with sausage or bacon, add scrambled eggs, and a slice of cheese. Perfect for brunch!
• BBQ Sliders: Mix barbecue sauce into the cooked ground beef, top with some crispy fried onions or a slice of red onion.
• Spicy Sliders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture. Use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Mushroom Swiss Sliders: Sauté some mushrooms with the onions and use Swiss cheese instead of cheddar.
• Garlic Parmesan Butter: Instead of plain melted butter, mix in minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese before brushing over the rolls.
• Hawaiian Twist: Add a slice of grilled pineapple and a dash of teriyaki sauce to the beef mixture.
• Veggie Sliders: For a meat-free option, use a plant-based ground “beef” substitute and follow the rest of the recipe.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have any leftover sliders, storing them properly will help you enjoy them later:

• Storage: Allow the sliders to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating in Oven: The best way to reheat sliders is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the sliders on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is re-melted.
• Reheating in Microwave: For a quicker option, individual sliders can be reheated in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warm. Be aware that the rolls might become a bit softer.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition information is automatically calculated based on the ingredients listed and should only be used as an approximation. Actual values may vary depending on specific product brands and preparation methods.

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