📝 About This Recipe
These pint-sized powerhouses pack all the nostalgic flavor of a classic American diner burger into a fun, kid-friendly format. Crafted with juicy ground chuck and melted cheddar on buttery toasted brioche buns, they are specifically designed to be easy for small hands to hold without sacrificing gourmet quality. Perfect for birthday parties or a whimsical family dinner, these miniature mains prove that the best things really do come in small packages.
🥗 Ingredients
The Beef Patties
- 1.5 pounds Ground Chuck (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for maximum juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly cracked)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (adds a deep savory umami flavor)
The Build
- 12 pieces Mini Brioche Slider Buns (sliced horizontally)
- 6 slices Cheddar Cheese (cut into quarters to fit the mini patties)
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted, for toasting buns)
- 1 tablespoon Canola Oil (for the skillet)
The Secret Sauce & Toppings
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Yellow Mustard
- 1 tablespoon Sweet Pickle Relish
- 1 cup Iceberg Lettuce (finely shredded)
- 6 pieces Cherry Tomatoes (sliced into thin rounds)
- 12 pieces Dill Pickle Chips
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and sweet pickle relish to create your 'secret sauce'. Cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
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2
Place the ground chuck in a large mixing bowl. Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
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3
Gently mix the meat and seasonings with your hands just until combined. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can lead to tough, dense burgers.
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4
Divide the meat into 12 equal portions (about 2 ounces each). Roll them into balls and then flatten them into discs about 1/2 inch thick. Make the patties slightly wider than the buns, as they will shrink during cooking.
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5
Using your thumb, make a small indentation in the center of each patty. This prevents the burgers from puffing up into balls while searing.
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6
Brush the cut sides of the slider buns with melted butter. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and toast the buns until golden brown (about 1-2 minutes). Set aside.
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7
Wipe out the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the canola oil and swirl to coat the pan.
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8
Working in batches to avoid crowding, place the patties in the hot skillet. Sear for 3 minutes on the first side until a deep brown crust forms.
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9
Flip the patties and immediately place two small squares of cheddar cheese on each one.
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10
Add a teaspoon of water to the pan and cover with a lid for 30-45 seconds. The steam will perfectly melt the cheese while the bottom finishes cooking.
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11
Remove the patties from the pan and let them rest on a plate for 2 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
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12
To assemble, spread a teaspoon of secret sauce on the bottom bun. Layer with shredded lettuce, a cheese-topped patty, a slice of tomato, and a pickle chip.
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13
Place the top bun on each slider and secure with a decorative toothpick if serving to older children or adults.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use cold meat straight from the fridge to ensure the fat doesn't melt before hitting the pan, which keeps the burger juicy. If you don't have brioche buns, Hawaiian sweet rolls make an excellent, soft substitute that kids love. For a healthier twist, you can use ground turkey, but be sure to add a teaspoon of olive oil to the mix to prevent drying out. Avoid pressing down on the patties with a spatula while cooking; this squeezes out all the delicious juices. To make ahead for a party, you can shape the patties and make the sauce a day in advance.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or classic tater tots. A small cup of creamy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and acid to balance the rich beef. Pair with a cold glass of milk or a homemade fruit sparkling water for a refreshing kid-friendly beverage. For a fun presentation, serve the sliders on a wooden board with extra sauce for dipping. Add a few slices of avocado for a 'California style' mini burger.