Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe

Mix and portion beef

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder and Worcestershire sauce. Gently mix just until combined; avoid overworking. Divide mixture into 12 even portions (about 1.5 ounces / 42 g each) and shape into slightly flattened discs about the diameter of the slider buns.

Preheat pan or griddle

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add 1 tsp neutral oil and let it shimmer. Heat until hot but not smoking.

Cook patties

Place patties on the hot surface leaving a little space between them. Cook 2-3 minutes without moving to get a good sear, then flip and cook another 2 minutes for medium doneness (adjust time ±1 minute for desired doneness).

Melt cheese

After flipping and with about 1 minute remaining, place half a cheese slice over each patty. Cover the pan briefly (30–60 seconds) or add a splash of water and cover to steam so the cheese melts evenly.

Toast buns

While patties finish, spread the softened butter on cut sides of the mini slider buns. Place buns butter-side down on a separate skillet over medium heat or on the griddle until golden and toasted, about 1–2 minutes.

Assemble sliders

Place toasted bottom bun, add a leaf of lettuce and a thin tomato slice if using, then a melted-cheese-topped patty, and a pickle slice. Spread about 1 teaspoon of prepared sauce on the top bun and close. Repeat for remaining sliders. Serve immediately.

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish and paprika until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Refrigerate until ready to use. Makes about 1/3 cup — about 1 teaspoon per slider.

Preheat oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or lightly oil it.

Cut and season potatoes

Wash and, if desired, peel russet potatoes. Cut into 1/4–1/2 inch sticks. Place cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel. Toss with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper until evenly coated.

Bake

Spread fries in a single layer on the prepared sheet (use two sheets if needed to avoid crowding). Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway, until golden and crisp. If you prefer extra crispness, broil 1–2 minutes at the end while watching carefully.

Finish

Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve fries hot alongside sliders.

If choosing fruit instead of fries, combine mixed fresh fruit in a bowl and toss with 1 tsp lemon juice to brighten flavors. Chill briefly or serve immediately alongside sliders.