Save These Mini Smash Burger Sliders with Caramelized Onions are the ultimate bite-sized treat for any burger lover. Featuring juicy, thin beef patties smashed to perfection and topped with gooey melted cheese, these sliders are elevated by a layer of rich, sweet caramelized onions that melt in your mouth for a savory experience.
Save Tucked into soft slider buns, these burgers are easy to eat and even easier to love. Whether you are prepping for a party or a quick weeknight meal, the combination of classic American flavors and the unique texture of a smashed patty makes these sliders a standout choice.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend), 1/2 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Onions: 2 large yellow onions (thinly sliced), 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp sugar, pinch of salt
- Cheese & Buns: 8 slices American cheese (or cheddar), 8 slider buns (mini brioche or potato rolls)
- Toppings & Condiments: 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 2 tsp yellow mustard, 8 dill pickle slices (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the caramelized onions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter with olive oil. Add sliced onions, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring frequently, until onions are soft and golden brown, about 20–25 minutes. Set aside.
- 2. Make the slider sauce
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and mustard. Set aside.
- 3. Form the beef
- Divide ground beef into 8 equal balls (about 2 oz/55 g each). Do not overwork.
- 4. Preheat
- Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot.
- 5. Smash and cook the patties
- Place beef balls in the hot skillet, leaving space between each. Immediately smash each ball flat with a sturdy spatula. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until edges are crispy.
- 6. Flip, top, and melt
- Flip patties, top each with a slice of cheese, and cook for 1 more minute until cheese is melted and burgers are just cooked through.
- 7. Toast the buns
- Meanwhile, split buns and toast, cut side down, in a dry skillet or under a broiler until golden.
- 8. Assemble the sliders
- Spread slider sauce on the bottom buns. Add patties with melted cheese, a generous spoonful of caramelized onions, and a pickle slice if desired. Top with the bun lids. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, use a sturdy metal spatula to press the beef balls flat against a very hot cast-iron skillet or griddle to achieve those signature crispy edges. Avoid overworking the meat when forming the balls to ensure the sliders remain tender, and use a sharp chef's knife for thinly slicing the onions.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Customize your sliders by swapping American cheese for Swiss or pepper jack for a spicy twist. For extra savory depth, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef before cooking. You can also make these gluten-free by using gluten-free slider buns.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these sliders immediately with a side of crispy fries or potato chips. For added freshness, consider topping them with a thin tomato slice or shredded lettuce. They are best enjoyed warm while the cheese is gooey and the buns are perfectly toasted.
Save With their crispy edges and savory-sweet flavor profile, these Mini Smash Burger Sliders with Caramelized Onions are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Simple to make and packed with gourmet flavor, they are a true American classic in a bite-sized format.
Recipe FAQs
- → What is the best beef blend for juicy sliders?
An 80/20 ground beef blend works best to keep the patties juicy and flavorful when smashed thin.
- → How do you caramelize onions properly?
Cook thinly sliced onions slowly in butter and olive oil over medium heat with a pinch of sugar until they turn soft and golden brown, about 20–25 minutes.
- → Can I substitute the cheese in the sliders?
Yes, Swiss or pepper jack cheese can be used instead of American for a different flavor twist.
- → What’s the key to smashing burger patties evenly?
Use a sturdy metal spatula and press down firmly on the beef balls immediately after placing them on a very hot skillet for even, thin patties.
- → How can I make these sliders gluten-free?
Simply swap regular slider buns for gluten-free ones, and ensure condiments are free from gluten-containing ingredients.
- → What toppings complement these sliders well?
Try adding thin tomato slices, shredded lettuce, or dill pickles to add freshness and texture to the sliders.