BBQ Cheeseburger Sliders Easy

This BBQ cheeseburger sliders recipe brings together tender beef, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet rolls baked to perfection. Ideal for game nights or casual gatherings, these crowd-pleasers are irresistibly flavorful and quick to whip up for the perfect snack or meal.

I made these for a family BBQ party, and since then, they’ve become a must-have for every celebration.

Ingredients

• Slider Base
  • 12 King’s Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls: Their sweetness balances the savory filling perfectly.
  • 2 tbsp melted butter: Ensures the tops bake golden and glossy.
  • Sesame seeds: A classic touch for added texture and presentation.

• Meat Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef: Choose a mix with about 80% lean for the ideal balance of flavor and moisture.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the meat.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of spice to the blend.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Boosts depth without overpowering.
  • 1 tsp onion powder: Pairs beautifully with garlic for extra savoriness.
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika: Introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the BBQ sauce.
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic: Fresh garlic amplifies the flavor.
  • 2 tbsp BBQ sauce: The star flavor that ties the sliders together, so pick your favorite brand.

• Cheese & Toppings
  • 6 slices pepper jack cheese: Adds a mild heat to the layers.
  • 1/2 cup shredded colby jack cheese: A creamy element that melts seamlessly.
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Crispy bacon is the ultimate indulgent touch.
  • Crispy fried onions: For added crunch and sweet onion flavor.

How To Make BBQ Cheeseburger Sliders

Prepare the Bacon:

Bake 6 slices of bacon at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined sheet pan for 25 minutes. Wait until they’re golden and crispy. Remove, cool, and crumble into bits for topping.

Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, add 1 lb of ground beef over medium-high heat. Season it with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir occasionally until it browns evenly. Drain the excess grease, then mix in minced garlic and BBQ sauce for a rich, smoky flavor.

Assemble Your Sliders:

Slice King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls in half horizontally to create a base and a top layer. Place the bottom halves snugly in a greased baking dish. Lay the slices of pepper jack cheese over the rolls. Evenly spread the ground beef mixture across the rolls, followed by shredded colby jack cheese, crumbled bacon, crispy fried onions, and an optional drizzle of BBQ sauce.

Bake and Finish:

Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds. Bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and rolls are golden. Serve fresh and hot.

The crispy fried onions are my favorite addition. The crunch and slightly sweet onion flavor bring a layer of indulgence that ties the dish together. My kids love these so much that they’ll even snack on the toppings if I’m not quick to assemble!

Storage Tips

Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Warm them up in a low oven to maintain their texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving, which can make the rolls soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a spicier kick, try swapping the BBQ sauce with a spicy barbecue or hot sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier version, ground turkey or chicken works well in place of beef.

BBQ Cheeseburger Sliders have a little bit of everything. Sweet rolls, smoky beef, melted cheese, and crispy toppings come together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for sharing at any occasion, these are sure to become a favorite at your table.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can customize the cheese to your liking. Cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda work well as alternatives.

→ What can I substitute for Hawaiian rolls?

If you don't have Hawaiian rolls, use any soft dinner rolls or slider buns for similar results.

→ How do I make the beef filling spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.

→ Can I prepare the sliders ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sliders a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ Can I use turkey or plant-based meat instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or plant-based meat makes a great substitute in this recipe.