Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min) Recipe

Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min) are the ultimate party pleaser and weeknight hero in my kitchen. Sweet, pillowy rolls hug juicy, flavorful ground beef with melty cheddar, all brushed with a buttery, tangy glaze and a scattering of sesame seeds. These bite-sized delights come together in just half an hour, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings, game-day snacks, or family dinners when you want that big cheeseburger flavor in an irresistible, mini package.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to deliver maximum flavor in minimal time. While the list is short and sweet, each item brings its own magic—whether it’s savory beef, caramelized onions, or the irresistible softness of Hawaiian rolls.

• Olive oil: Creates the perfect base for sautéing the onions, and adds richness to the beef mixture.
• Lean ground beef: Gives the sliders juicy, meaty flavor without too much grease; you can use medium-fat beef for an even richer bite.
• Onion: Finely chopped and sautéed until golden, creates a subtle sweetness and savory depth in the filling.
• Mayonnaise: Binds the beef mixture and adds creaminess that makes each bite melt in your mouth.
• BBQ sauce (or ketchup): Brings tang, sweetness, and classic burger flavor—use your favorite for a custom touch.
• Garlic powder: Adds a gentle, savory kick without overpowering the other flavors.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning every layer of the sliders, making all the flavors pop.
• Black pepper: Lends a bit of zip and rounds out the beefy filling with warmth.
• Butter: Used for both the pan and the glaze, brings that signature golden, slightly crisp finish to the sliders.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the glaze that sets off the richness of the cheese and beef.
• Brown sugar (or maple syrup): A touch of sweetness caramelizes the tops of the rolls as they bake.
• Sesame seeds (or Everything Bagel Seasoning): A classic burger look and a fun texture boost.
• Hawaiian rolls: Soft, slightly sweet rolls are the soul of these sliders, soaking up flavors and holding everything together.
• Cheddar cheese (slices or shredded): Melts beautifully and brings the signature gooey cheeseburger goodness.
• Soft butter (for spreading on pan): Ensures perfectly golden, slightly crisped bottoms to every slider.

How to Make Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min)

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350F (177C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment or foil, and for extra flavor and crispy bottoms, spread a thin layer of soft butter directly onto the pan surface. This step might seem simple, but trust me: this bit of butter and the right prep make everything else come together beautifully.

Step 2: Make the Savory Ground Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and chopped onion. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the onions are golden and sweet-smelling. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. When almost all the pink has disappeared (roughly 3 minutes), turn off the heat. Move the beef mixture to one side of the skillet, then carefully tilt the pan and spoon off any excess grease—this keeps your sliders from going soggy! Mix in the mayo, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then taste and adjust to your liking.

Step 3: Build the Sliders

Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls attached to each other as a sheet—this helps with easy assembly and a neat final appearance. Lay the bottoms in your prepared pan and cover with a layer of cheddar cheese, followed by all that savory beef mixture. Add a second layer of cheese for that ideal cheesy stretch with every bite, then top with the other half of the rolls.

Step 4: Glaze, Bake, and Finish

In a small microwaveable bowl, melt the butter with Dijon mustard and brown sugar for about 25 seconds, then stir until fully combined. Brush this decadent glaze over the tops of the rolls, then finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or Everything Bagel Seasoning. Bake, uncovered, in your preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is gooey. Remove from the oven, slice along the roll seams with a serrated knife, and serve your Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min) immediately while hot!

How to Serve Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min)

Garnishes

To really make your Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min) shine, try garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or chives for color. Dill pickle slices or a few jalapeño rounds can add a tangy crunch that pairs beautifully with the melted cheese and rich beef.

Side Dishes

These sliders are a joy to pair with all your favorite sides. Think crispy oven fries, sweet potato wedges, or a simple coleslaw to provide crunch and contrast. Even a fresh green salad makes a great companion, especially when drizzled with a zippy vinaigrette.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min) into the centerpiece of your next gathering! Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with toothpicks for easy grab-and-go, or stack them in a basket lined with checkered paper for a diner-style vibe. If you’re serving kids, try cutting the sliders into even smaller two-bite pieces for extra fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min), simply wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to three days and reheat beautifully for a quick lunch or snack.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze fully assembled, unbaked sliders. Wrap the pan tightly with both plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Bake straight from the freezer (adding a few extra minutes to the baking time), or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

To bring leftover sliders back to life, place them on a baking sheet, loosely cover with foil, and heat at 350F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. They’re also surprisingly delicious straight from the fridge if you’re into cold pizza-style snacking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives classic cheeseburger flavor, you can swap in Swiss, provolone, pepper jack, or even a blend—whatever melts your heart.

What’s the best way to cut the Hawaiian rolls without them falling apart?

Use a sharp, serrated bread knife and slice the entire package horizontally, holding the rolls together gently as you go. Keeping them attached helps with structural integrity during both assembly and baking!

How can I make these sliders a little healthier?

Try using lean ground beef or swapping in ground turkey or chicken. You can also use reduced-fat cheese and a lighter glaze to keep things on the lighter side, without losing any flavor.

Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook and season the beef mixture up to 2 days in advance. Store in the fridge, then gently reheat before assembling the sliders to keep everything hot and fresh.

Are Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min) good for meal prep?

They really are! Not only do they make fantastic leftovers for lunches, but you can also assemble the sliders ahead, cover, and keep them in your fridge until just before baking. Perfect for easy entertaining or stress-free weeknights.

Final Thoughts

You’ll be amazed at how quickly Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls (30 Min) disappear from any table. Whether you’re hosting friends, feeding your family, or just craving a cheeseburger fix without the fuss, this recipe is the answer. Give it a try and watch everyone come back for seconds—these sliders are pure, easy comfort food joy!

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