Introduction

These Classic Cheeseburger Sliders are the perfect crowd-pleaser, combining juicy seasoned beef, creamy mayonnaise, and melted cheddar cheese all tucked inside soft dinner rolls. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they’re ideal for parties, game days, or any casual meal.

There are eight small cheeseburgers arranged on a white plate. Each cheeseburger has three layers: a golden brown sesame seed bun on top with a soft texture, melted bright yellow cheddar cheese in the middle that slightly drapes over the edges, and a cooked ground beef patty that looks juicy and browned at the bottom. One cheeseburger in front shows a layer of red ketchup just under the top bun. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and simple background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lb lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7 fat content)
1/2 Tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 large yellow onion (finely diced)
1/4 cup mayonnaise
8 slices medium cheddar cheese
6 oz medium cheddar (shredded, or use more sliced cheese)
24 dinner rolls (or 2 packs of 12, King’s Hawaiian recommended)
2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted, plus more to grease baking sheet)
1 Tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175°C). Grease the bottom of a large rimmed baking sheet with a bit of butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Step 2: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté for a few minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring frequently, until fully browned with no pink remaining.
Step 4: Tilt the skillet and carefully spoon off all excess fat and liquid to prevent soggy sliders.
Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the mayonnaise until well combined to add moisture and creaminess.
Step 6: Slice the block of dinner rolls horizontally in half, separating tops from bottoms. Place the bottom halves tightly on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Lay the cheddar cheese slices evenly over the bottom buns to create a moisture barrier.
Step 8: Spread the beef mixture evenly over the cheese layer, using a spatula to square off the edges and fill all corners.
Step 9: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
Step 10: Place the top halves of the rolls, cut-side down, over the sliders, fitting snugly.
Step 11: Melt the butter and brush it over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly on top so they stick.
Step 12: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and tops are golden brown and toasted.
Step 13: Remove from the oven and carefully slice individual sliders along the roll lines. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use King’s Hawaiian rolls for a slightly sweet and fluffy slider that complements the savory beef.
Mix in a splash of Worcestershire sauce with the beef for extra depth of flavor.
Swap mayonnaise for an equal amount of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Add pickles, sliced tomatoes, or lettuce after baking for extra freshness and crunch.
Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bit of spicy heat.

Storage

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350˚F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to maintain crisp buns and melted cheese. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

A white plate holds eight small cheeseburgers arranged closely together. Each cheeseburger has three layers: a bottom soft bun that is light beige and fluffy, a middle layer of dark brown cooked ground beef topped with melting bright orange cheddar cheese, and a top golden brown bun sprinkled generously with white sesame seeds. Some burgers show a small amount of red ketchup peeking out between the cheese and the top bun. The white plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these sliders in advance?

Yes, you can assemble them a few hours ahead and refrigerate before baking. Just cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and bake fresh before serving.

Can I freeze the cooked sliders?

Yes, fully baked sliders can be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving to preserve texture and flavor.