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Savory Mini Beef Sliders with Caramelized Onions

mini beef sliders - featured image

These savory mini beef sliders with caramelized onions are quick and easy to make, perfect for party snacks or casual gatherings. Juicy beef patties paired with sweet, slow-cooked onions create a comforting and crowd-pleasing bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 ratio for best juiciness)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 12 mini slider buns (King’s Hawaiian recommended)
  • Optional: sliced cheddar cheese or Swiss cheese
  • Optional: Dijon mustard or aioli

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the Onions: Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat. Cook slowly, stirring every 5 minutes, until onions are golden brown and soft, about 25-30 minutes. Add brown sugar halfway through. If onions dry out, splash a bit of water and stir.
  2. Prepare the Beef Sliders: Mix ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a mixing bowl. Combine gently without overworking.
  3. Shape the Patties: Divide mixture into 12 equal portions (~1.5 ounces each). Shape into small, flat patties slightly larger than buns. Press a dimple in the center of each patty.
  4. Cook the Sliders: When onions are nearly done, push them aside or transfer to a bowl. Increase heat to medium-high. Cook patties in skillet 3-4 minutes per side for medium doneness. Add cheese slices after flipping and cover pan for 1-2 minutes to melt if using cheese.
  5. Toast the Buns: Slice slider buns and toast face down on a separate pan or under broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
  6. Assemble the Sliders: Spread Dijon mustard or aioli on buns. Place cooked patties on bun bottoms, top with caramelized onions, then cover with bun tops. Serve immediately.

Notes

Caramelize onions slowly over low heat for best flavor. Avoid overworking beef to keep patties juicy. Press a dimple in patties to prevent puffing. Toast buns before assembling to avoid sogginess. Caramelized onions can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. Rest patties a few minutes after cooking for juiciness.

Nutrition

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