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Classic Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe Easy Homemade All-American Special Sauce

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These Classic Comforting All-American Cheeseburger Sliders with Special Sauce are quick, easy, and perfect for gatherings. Featuring juicy beef patties, melty cheese, and a tangy homemade special sauce, they bring nostalgic American comfort food to your table.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef, preferably 80/20 for juicy patties
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 8 slider buns or mini brioche buns, soft and slightly sweet
  • 4 slices of American cheese or cheddar, halved
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • ½ cup (120ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon pickle relish
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Dash of smoked paprika (optional)
  • Optional toppings: thinly sliced dill pickles, shredded iceberg lettuce, thin slices of tomato, finely diced white onion

Instructions

  1. Make the Special Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, pickle relish, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the sliders. (About 5 minutes)
  2. Shape the Patties: Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces or 55g each). Gently form each into a small, flat patty slightly larger than the buns to allow for shrinkage during cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper. (10 minutes)
  3. Cook the Patties: Heat vegetable oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties without overcrowding the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until nicely browned and a crust forms.
  4. Flip the patties carefully and immediately place half a slice of cheese on each patty. Cook for another 2 minutes until the cheese melts and the patties reach your preferred doneness (medium is about 160°F/71°C internal temperature). Remove from pan and let rest briefly. (Total cooking time about 5-6 minutes)
  5. Prepare the Buns: Meanwhile, slice the slider buns in half if not pre-sliced. Toast them lightly in the same skillet or under a broiler for about 1-2 minutes to add a little crunch and warmth.
  6. Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous spoonful of special sauce on both the top and bottom bun halves. Place the patty with melted cheese on the bottom bun, then add optional toppings like pickles, lettuce, tomato, and onion if you like. Cap with the top bun.
  7. Serve Immediately: These sliders are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Pair with your favorite fries or a simple side salad for a classic combo.

Notes

Do not press down on the patties while cooking to keep them juicy. Cover the skillet briefly if cheese isn’t melting fast enough to trap steam. Use 80/20 ground beef for best flavor and juiciness. The special sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. For dairy-free, use vegan cheese slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheeseburger sliders, classic sliders, homemade special sauce, American comfort food, easy sliders recipe, backyard barbecue, party food, quick dinner

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