Cheeseburger sliders have long been a beloved classic at gatherings and casual dining tables across America, but this recipe adds a gourmet twist to the familiar. These sliders are not just about the taste but also about the experience. Imagine biting into a mini burger that's bursting with flavors from a mix of premium, juicy beef and a melty sharp cheddar, complemented by a tangy, secret sauce and the crunch of freshly made crispy onions. The smell of buttery, toasted brioche buns fills the air, turning a simple meal into an indulgent treat. These sliders are both visually appealing and delicious, designed to be a highlight at any party or family dinner.
Ingredients
Serving Size
- Serves: 6 people
Grocery Items Needed
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 mix for optimal juiciness)
- 12 mini brioche buns
- 6 slices of sharp cheddar cheese, halved
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Butter lettuce leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: dill pickle slices
Preparation
- Make the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and smoked paprika until well combined. Set aside.
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions with a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring occasionally until they are golden brown and soft, about 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 12 equal portions and form into small, round patties. Season each patty with salt, pepper, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a griddle or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3 minutes on each side or until they reach the desired doneness.
- Assemble the Sliders: Toast the mini brioche buns lightly. On the bottom half of each bun, place a small leaf of butter lettuce, a beef patty, a piece of cheddar cheese, and some caramelized onions. Top with a generous dollop of special sauce and cover with the top half of the bun.
Expert Tips
- For an extra crispy onion topping, you can double fry the onions until they are just shy of being fully caramelized.
- If you prefer a less rich burger, substitute the brioche buns with whole-grain mini buns.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delectable sliders on a wooden platter with a side of sweet potato fries and a small bowl of extra special sauce for dipping. Garnish with dill pickle slices to add a zesty crunch that complements the rich flavors of the sliders.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 24g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Allergens: Wheat, Dairy
We hope you enjoy making and savoring these gourmet cheeseburger sliders. Feel free to share your version of this recipe or add your personal twist to make it uniquely yours. Cooking is not just about following recipes; it's about creating memories around the table.
