Slider & Tots Recipe

Make patties

In a bowl combine ground beef, kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce and diced onion. Mix gently with your hands until just combined — avoid overworking. Divide into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz each) and shape into small, slightly flattened patties slightly wider than the buns to shrink while cooking.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Add a light brush of oil or spray. Place patties on the hot surface leaving small gaps. Cook 2–3 minutes without moving to develop a crust, flip and cook another 1–2 minutes. During the last 30 seconds place half a slice of cheese on each patty, cover briefly to melt.

Toast buns

Split slider buns and brush cut sides with melted butter. After removing patties, place buns cut-side down on the hot skillet or griddle and toast until golden, about 30–60 seconds.

Assemble sliders

Spread about 1 teaspoon of slider sauce on the bottom of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf (if using), a cheese-topped patty, a tomato slice (trim to fit), and a couple pickle slices. Add a small dot of mustard or ketchup if desired, then cap with the top bun.

Make sauce & prepare toppings

In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, yellow mustard, ketchup and optional hot sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. Slice pickles and tomato, wash lettuce and set aside. Reserve about 1 teaspoon sauce per slider for assembly.

Season and cook tots (oven)

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss frozen tater tots with 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder and kosher salt until evenly coated. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Bake 20–25 minutes, turning once halfway, until golden and crispy.

Or air-fryer option

Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray or toss tots with the oil and seasonings. Arrange in a single layer and cook 12–15 minutes, shaking basket halfway, until crisp.