I can hardly contain my excitement as I share this recipe for **Small Sliders** with you! There’s something so inherently joyful about mini burgers, isn’t there? I remember the first time I made them for a game night with friends. The aromas filled the house, and by the time the sliders were done, everyone was hovering around the kitchen like seagulls waiting for their next snack. It turned into such a fun evening, filled with laughter, stories, and, of course, plenty of sliders. It’s a memory I treasure, and that’s why I love whipping up these little bites of happiness whenever I can!
This recipe is not only straightforward but also incredibly versatile. Whether it’s for a casual weekend gathering or a special occasion, sliders can always steal the show. My favorite part is that everyone can customize their own with a variety of toppings. Let’s dive in and get that slider party started!
What’s in Small Sliders?
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for that perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. It gives the sliders that mouthwatering bite everyone craves!
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple but essential, these enhance the flavor of the beef.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Trust me, these two ingredients ramp up the taste and add a lovely depth to your sliders without overpowering them.
Slider Buns: You know what’s great about slider buns? Their size! They’re the perfect little pillows for our juicy patties. Feel free to opt for whole grain or gluten-free options if that suits your needs!
Cheddar Cheese: A classic for a reason! Melty, mild, and oh-so-delicious, it’s the perfect topping for our sliders.
Vegetable Oil: Just a tad is all you need to get the skillet sizzling and those patties browned beautifully.
Pickles & Onion (optional): The best part about sliders is the toppings! You can add anything from classic pickles to spicy jalapeños—get creative!
French Fries: Because who doesn’t love a side of crispy fries with their sliders? I mean, it’s basically a must.
—
Is Small Sliders Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health side of things. While sliders are undoubtedly a treat, there are also some good aspects to consider.
Ground Beef: Packed with protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, beef provides a hearty base. Just be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re aiming for lower fat options.
Cheddar Cheese: It’s a good source of calcium and protein, but also quite rich in saturated fats, so enjoying it in moderation is key to balanced eating!
The beauty of these sliders, though, is that they can be customized to your dietary needs. Swap out ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based patties! Add plenty of fresh veggies for extra nutrients and crunch.
—
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 12 small slider buns
– 6 slices of cheddar cheese (cut in half)
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking)
– Pickles, onion, or any desired toppings (optional)
– French fries (for serving)
**Servings:** About 12 sliders
—
How to Make Small Sliders?
1. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently until just combined; you don’t want to overwork the meat!
2. Divide the beef mixture into 12 equal portions and form small patties, slightly larger than your slider buns as they’ll shrink while cooking.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil.
4. Once the oil is hot (you can test it by flicking a drop of water in—if it sizzles, you’re good!), add the slider patties to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they’re nice and browned, then flip them over.
5. After flipping, place half a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese melts and patties are cooked through (make sure the internal temperature reaches 160°F).
6. While the sliders are cooking, you can toast the slider buns in a separate skillet or in the oven until they’re golden brown—yum!
7. Assemble the sliders by placing each patty on a bun, topped with your favorite pickles, onions, or any other toppings you fancy.
8. Serve the sliders warm with a side of crispy French fries. Enjoy each delightful bite!
—
Creative Slider Enhancements
– Customize these sliders with toppings like lettuce, tomato, ketchup, mustard, or BBQ sauce for a flavor punch.
– Feeling adventurous? Throw some crispy bacon or creamy avocado on top for a gourmet touch.
– Don’t forget about using fun-shaped fries or sweet potato fries for serving—we eat with our eyes first, right?
I hope you give these **Small Sliders** a try—they’re a hit for any occasion! I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so feel free to drop me a line and share your experiences. Happy cooking, and may your sliders be juicy and your gatherings lively!
