Beef & Cheddar Sliders Recipe

Mix and portion

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and onion powder. Gently mix with your hands or a spatula until combined; do not overwork. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz/55–60 g each) and lightly form into flat patties slightly wider than the buns (patties will shrink while cooking).

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil to coat. When shimmering, add patties leaving a small gap between them. Cook 2–3 minutes without moving to get a sear, flip, and cook another 1.5–2 minutes for medium; adjust time for desired doneness. In the final 30–45 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty, cover skillet with a lid to melt cheese. Remove patties to a plate and tent with foil.

Caramelize onions

While patties cook (or beforehand), heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to brown, about 8–10 minutes. Sprinkle brown sugar over onions and continue to cook 3–5 more minutes until deeply golden and caramelized. Stir in red wine vinegar to deglaze and balance sweetness, cook 1 minute more. Remove from heat.

If using pickles, drain and pat dry. Set aside for assembly.

Prepare buns

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a pastry brush, brush the cut sides of the buns with melted butter. Arrange buns, cut-side up, on a rimmed baking sheet. Toast in the oven 3–5 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and spread yellow mustard on the bottom halves while warm.

Assemble sliders

Place a cheesy beef patty on each bottom bun. Top each patty with about 1 tablespoon of caramelized onions and a pickle slice if using. Close with top buns. If making for a crowd or to meld flavors, arrange assembled sliders on the baking sheet, brush tops lightly with any remaining melted butter, and bake 3–4 minutes until warmed through.

Garnish with chopped parsley over the tray of sliders if desired, slice any bun ties, and serve immediately.