Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

There’s something incredibly satisfying about bite-sized food, especially when it combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with the soft, sweet touch of Hawaiian rolls. As someone who loves experimenting in the kitchen, I can confidently say that these Cheeseburger Sliders are a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family gathering, or just craving something deliciously comforting, these sliders are the answer. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing (or not—no judgment here!).

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the toppings, switch up the cheese, or even add a special sauce to make it your own. The Hawaiian rolls add a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory beef and melted cheese. Trust me, once you try these sliders, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection. Let’s dive into what you’ll need and how to make these irresistible little bites!

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Ground beef: The star of the show! Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness. Leaner beef can work, but the fat in 80/20 ensures your sliders stay moist and delicious.

Hawaiian rolls: These sweet, fluffy rolls are the secret to making these sliders stand out. Their slight sweetness complements the savory beef and cheese, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Cheese slices: I recommend using American cheese for its meltability and classic cheeseburger flavor. However, cheddar, pepper jack, or even Swiss cheese can work if you want to mix things up.

Butter: Unsalted butter is used to brush the tops of the rolls, giving them a golden, slightly crispy finish. It also helps the seasoning stick to the rolls.

Worcestershire sauce: This adds a depth of umami flavor to the beef. It’s a small but mighty ingredient that elevates the overall taste.

Onion powder and garlic powder: These pantry staples add a quick and easy flavor boost to the beef without the need for chopping fresh onions or garlic.

Sesame seeds: Optional but highly recommended for topping the sliders. They add a subtle crunch and a professional bakery-style finish.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the beef. Don’t skimp on these—they bring out the natural flavors of the meat.

Ingredients List

1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended)
12 Hawaiian rolls
6 slices American cheese (or your preferred cheese)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping them connected as a single sheet. This makes assembly much easier.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly seasoned.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

Place the bottom half of the Hawaiian rolls in a baking dish. Layer the cooked beef evenly over the rolls, then top with the cheese slices. Place the top half of the rolls over the cheese.

Step 4: Add the Butter Topping

Brush the melted butter generously over the tops of the rolls. If using, sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the buttered rolls.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sliders from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Slice into individual sliders and serve warm. Watch them disappear in no time!

Tips for Making This Recipe

Customize the toppings: Add pickles, onions, or even a drizzle of special sauce before baking for extra flavor.
Use a slider sauce: Mix ketchup, mayo, and a dash of pickle juice for a quick and tasty sauce to serve on the side.
Don’t overcook the beef: Keep it juicy by avoiding overcooking. Drain excess grease to prevent soggy rolls.
Experiment with cheese: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Swiss for a nutty flavor.
Make ahead: Assemble the sliders a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. Perfect for parties!
Double the recipe: These sliders are so popular, you might want to make extra!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use dinner rolls or slider buns, but Hawaiian rolls are recommended for their unique sweetness and texture.

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sliders, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 6 hours before baking.

Can I freeze these sliders?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.

What can I serve with these sliders?
They pair well with fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad. Don’t forget the dipping sauces!

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Definitely! Ground turkey or chicken works well, but adjust the seasoning to suit the lighter meat.

Enjoy making and sharing these Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls—they’re sure to be a hit!