Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe

Form patties

Place ground beef in a bowl. Add kosher salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Gently mix with your hands or a fork just until combined; avoid overworking. Divide meat into 12 equal portions (about 1.3 ounces / 37 g each). Roll each portion into a ball and press into flat discs about 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) wide and slightly larger than the slider buns; make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing.

If you prefer larger single patties, you can form 6 patties and double them in the buns (adjust cooking time accordingly).

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and let it shimmer. Working in batches if necessary, place patties in the skillet without crowding. Cook 2–3 minutes on the first side without moving the patty to get a good sear.

Flip each patty and cook another 1.5–2 minutes for medium doneness. Place a half-slice of American cheese (folded if needed) on each patty immediately after flipping so it can begin melting. If you want fully melted cheese faster, cover the skillet with a lid for 30–45 seconds.

Transfer cooked patties to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm while you toast buns and finish toppings.

Heat a clean skillet or lower the griddle temperature to medium-low. Spread softened butter on cut sides of the slider buns. Place buns butter-side-down on the skillet and toast 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. If desired, sprinkle a few sesame seeds on the top bun while toasting.

Place bottom halves of the toasted buns on a tray or platter. Spread about 1 teaspoon of ketchup on each bottom bun (adjust to taste). If using mustard, add a light smear on top of the ketchup or on the top bun.

Place one cheesy patty on each bottom bun. Top each patty with two pickle slices (or one folded pickle) and a small amount of thinly sliced onion if using.

Cover with the toasted top buns and serve immediately while warm.

Serve the sliders hot with additional ketchup on the side for dipping. Provide napkins. Leftover patties and buns can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently in a skillet or oven to preserve texture.