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Perfect Mini July 4th Sliders Recipe Kids Will Love Easy Step-by-Step

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These mini sliders are quick, easy, and kid-approved, perfect for Fourth of July cookouts or any summer party. Juicy beef patties with melty cheese and soft buns make a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 12 mini slider buns or dinner rolls
  • 6 slices cheddar cheese, halved (or American cheese)
  • Pickle slices (dill or bread-and-butter)
  • Ketchup (optional)
  • Mustard (optional)
  • 2 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a ball and flatten into 2.5-inch patties about 1/2 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
  3. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add a small drizzle of oil if needed.
  4. Place patties in the skillet, leaving space between each. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side without moving them.
  5. Flip patties and cook for another 3 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Place half a slice of cheese on each patty. Cover the pan with a lid or transfer patties to a baking sheet and broil for 1-2 minutes until cheese melts.
  7. Spread butter on the inside of slider buns. Toast buns in a separate pan over medium heat or under the broiler until golden brown and warm, about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Assemble sliders by placing each patty on a toasted bun bottom, adding a pickle slice, ketchup or mustard if desired, and topping with the bun crown.
  9. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Make a thumb indentation in each patty to prevent puffing up. Do not overmix the meat to keep sliders tender. Use a cast-iron skillet for a nice crust. Cover pan when melting cheese if not using broiler. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Patties can be prepped up to 2 hours ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: mini sliders, kids recipe, Fourth of July, easy sliders, beef sliders, party food, summer recipe