These Beef Sliders with Pickles and Cheese are the ultimate mini-burgers, featuring juicy, flavorful beef patties, melted cheese, and tangy pickles, all on soft slider buns. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, these sliders are easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy any burger craving.
Key Information
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Number of Servings: 12 sliders
- Serving Size: 1-2 sliders per person
Nutritional Information (Per Slider)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 14g
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on toppings and portions.)
Ingredients List
For the Beef Patties
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 for juicier patties)
- 1/2 small onion, grated or finely minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil, for cooking
For Assembling the Sliders
- 12 slider buns
- 12 slices of cheddar cheese (or American cheese, for classic flavor)
- 24 dill pickle slices (2 per slider, or more to taste)
- 1/4 cup (60g) mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard (optional)
- Fresh lettuce leaves (optional)
- Sliced tomatoes (optional)
Detailed Method of Preparation
Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, grated onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can make the patties tough.Shape the Patties:
Divide the meat mixture into 12 equal portions and shape each into a small, round patty, about 2.5 inches (6 cm) in diameter. Press each patty slightly in the center with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.Cook the Patties:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil to the pan. Once hot, place the patties in the pan (you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding). Cook each patty for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.Add Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid or tent with aluminum foil to help the cheese melt quickly.Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, split the slider buns and toast them lightly in a separate skillet or under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, until golden. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise and mustard (if using) on the bottom half of each bun.Assemble the Sliders:
Place a lettuce leaf (if using) on the bottom half of each bun, followed by the cheese-topped beef patty. Add two pickle slices on top of each patty, followed by a slice of tomato (optional). Place the top half of the bun over the fillings to complete the slider.Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the sliders on a serving platter and serve warm. These are perfect for parties or as a fun, customizable meal for the family!
Tips for Culinary Success
Choose the Right Beef:
Use ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio for juicy, flavorful patties. Leaner beef can dry out easily, especially in small patties like sliders.Customize Your Toppings:
In addition to pickles and cheese, you can add caramelized onions, crispy bacon, or a dollop of your favorite burger sauce to make each slider unique.Don’t Overwork the Meat:
Mix the ground beef gently to avoid tough patties. Also, pressing a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking helps them stay flat instead of puffing up.Keep the Buns Fresh:
If you’re serving the sliders later, wait to assemble them until just before serving. This keeps the buns from getting soggy.Try Different Cheeses:
Cheddar and American cheese are classic choices, but Swiss, pepper jack, or blue cheese can add a fun twist to your sliders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make these beef sliders ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can shape the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. Cook them just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free slider buns or lettuce wraps as a substitute. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your Worcestershire sauce and pickles to ensure they don’t contain any gluten additives.
Q: Can I cook these sliders on the grill?
A: Absolutely! Grill the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Top with cheese in the last minute, then assemble and enjoy.
Q: What sides pair well with beef sliders?
A: Classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a green salad work wonderfully. Onion rings or a bowl of chips are also great options for a casual meal.