Grilled Cheese Cheeseburger Sliders

These grilled cheese cheeseburger sliders are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any busy weeknight or game day snack. With golden toasty buns and that oozy American cheese layered with savory seasoned ground beef and sweet caramelized onions, these sliders bring together two comfort food classics in an easy oven-baked dish that families love.

Every time I make these sliders for my family, the tray empties in minutes. The recipe is so fun and easy to make that my youngest even begs to help layer the cheese and rolls.

Ingredients

• King’s Hawaiian rolls twelve pack: The tender slightly sweet rolls create a pillowy texture and bake up golden brown I always check for a package that is soft with no cracks
• Ground beef one pound: Choose eighty five percent lean for juicy flavor with less grease You want fresh ground beef that is bright pink with no off odor
• Chopped onion: The onion caramelizes and adds rich sweetness Use yellow for classic flavor and choose firm ones with no bruises
• Butter two tablespoons: Adds richness and helps caramelize the onions Salted works best in this recipe
• Salt and pepper half teaspoon each: Enhances all the flavors and helps season the beef evenly
• Smoked paprika and garlic powder one teaspoon each: Adds a gentle smoky warmth and lots of savory punch The smoked paprika in particular makes the beef taste like it came off the grill
• American cheese: Classic pick for meltability and nostalgia Look for thick cut deli style slices
• Homemade burger sauce: Half cup mayo quarter cup ketchup one eighth cup mustard one tablespoon sweet relish Mix together for a creamy tangy dip Use real mayo for best flavor and check relish for a bright green color

Instructions

Prepare Onions:

Begin by placing chopped onion and butter in a skillet over medium high heat Stir and let the onions cook slowly for about ten to twelve minutes until deep golden and caramelized The key to flavor is patience so avoid turning up the heat too high

Brown Beef:

Add ground beef directly into another skillet or clear space in the existing pan Increase the heat if needed Cook until the beef starts browning and crumbles apart With a wooden spoon break up the meat and stir constantly Sprinkle in salt pepper smoked paprika and garlic powder Continue to cook three to five minutes until nicely browned and aromatic

Drain and Set Aside:

While the beef is still hot tilt the skillet to one side and spoon out as much excess grease as you can This keeps your sliders from getting soggy

Toast Rolls:

Carefully use a bread knife to split the Hawaiian rolls as a whole set Keep the tops and bottoms together for easy assembly Lay open and spread mayo over the cut sides Set the bottoms mayo side down in a skillet over medium heat Press lightly and cook for about two minutes until deep golden and toasted Watch the color carefully

Layer in Pan:

Spray a sheet pan or baking dish with a little cooking spray Position the toasted roll bottoms toasted side down on the dish Layer with enough American cheese slices to cover every roll Add the cooked beef evenly over the cheese Use a slotted spoon to avoid extra grease Top with caramelized onions then another layer of American cheese

Top and Bake:

Place the tops of the Hawaiian rolls toasted side up onto the cheese Layering them this way gives extra crisp outside Bake uncovered in a 350 degree oven for about ten minutes until the cheese is fully melted and gooey throughout

Serve and Dip:

Remove from oven use a knife to separate the sliders and serve with homemade burger sauce for dipping The sauce brings everything together with tangy sweet and creamy notes

I am especially fond of the sweet soft King’s Hawaiian rolls Their buttery flavor pairs so well with savory fillings My kids always argue over who gets the cheesiest corner slider and now it has become a running joke at family gatherings

Storage Tips

These sliders reheat beautifully Wrap leftovers in foil and warm in a three hundred degree oven for five to ten minutes to revive that melty cheese and toasty top Avoid microwaving as it can make the rolls soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or plant based crumbles for the beef if you want a lighter version Pepper jack or cheddar cheese can replace American for a sharper flavor If you do not have smoked paprika use regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder

Serving Suggestions

Serve these sliders with crunchy pickles a fresh salad or baked fries for a complete meal They are also perfect as a party snack just cut them smaller for bite sized appetizers

Cultural and Historical Context

Sliders originally referred to small hamburgers popularized in American diners and drive ins The fusion of a grilled cheese with a cheeseburger slider is pure comfort food nostalgia bringing together favorites from childhood lunch counters and backyard barbecues

Seasonal Adaptations

Add fresh tomato slices or pickled jalapenos in summer for a burst of brightness

Success Stories

Several friends have made these for birthday gatherings and always rave about how quickly they disappear One even made a double batch and none were left by halftime during the big game

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble sliders up to the baking step then wrap tightly in foil and freeze To serve thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as directed for freshly melted sliders

Enjoy these sliders hot and melty for optimal comfort food satisfaction They will be a surefire hit at your next gathering

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do you keep the sliders from getting soggy?

To avoid soggy sliders, toast the rolls before assembling, and bake the sliders uncovered so the tops crisp up in the oven.

→ Which cheese melts best for these sliders?

American cheese melts smoothly and delivers a classic creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the beef and onions.

→ Can the sliders be prepared ahead of time?

You can assemble the sliders ahead and refrigerate them covered. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

→ What pairs well as a side with these sliders?

Serve them with fries, coleslaw, sweet potato chips, or a crisp green salad for a satisfying meal.

→ How do you make the burger sauce?

The sauce blends mayo, ketchup, mustard, and sweet relish. Adjust proportions to taste for extra tang or sweetness.