Get ready to meet your new favorite crowd-pleaser. These Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders are the perfect mashup of savory ground beef, melted cheese, and sweet, soft Hawaiian rolls, all brushed with a delectable buttery topping. They are incredibly easy to make and disappear from the plate in minutes. Whether you’re planning for a game day, a family dinner, or a potluck, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that brings big burger flavor in a perfect, snackable size.
We’ve all been there – trying to find a recipe that is both simple to prepare and loved by everyone. This is it. The combination of seasoned beef and gooey cheese tucked into those iconic sweet rolls creates an irresistible flavor profile. Plus, they’re baked together in one pan, making both cooking and cleanup an absolute breeze.
Why This Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders Recipe is a Keeper
You’re going to absolutely love these sliders, and here’s why. They pack all the classic taste of a cheeseburger into a fun, shareable format. They are the ultimate party appetizer or an easy weeknight meal the whole family will get excited about.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The savory beef, tangy pickles, and melted cheese are perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the Hawaiian rolls.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, you can have these sliders on the table in under 40 minutes with minimal effort.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve them as a main course for an easy dinner, like this easy tater tot casserole, or as an appetizer for parties and tailgates.
- Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. You can easily add your favorite burger toppings or switch up the cheeses.
The Simple Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts of this recipe is its simple, accessible ingredient list. You likely have most of these items in your kitchen already. Here’s what you’ll need to gather.
For the Sliders:
- Ground Beef: One pound of lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10) works best to ensure the sliders are juicy but not greasy.
- King’s Hawaiian Rolls: The star of the show! A 12-count package provides the signature sweet and soft bun.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sliced cheddar cheese melts perfectly and provides that classic cheeseburger flavor. Provolone or American cheese are great substitutes.
- Onion: Finely diced yellow onion adds a foundational savory flavor to the beef.
- Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a deep, umami flavor that elevates the ground beef.
- Salt & Pepper: For seasoning the beef.
- Dill Pickles: Sliced dill pickles for that essential tangy crunch.
For the Butter Topping:
- Butter: Melted salted butter forms the base of the delicious topping.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy complexity that cuts through the richness.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A little more for that savory depth.
- Sesame Seeds: Sprinkled on top for that classic burger bun look and texture.
How to Make Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders Step-by-Step
Making these baked cheeseburger sliders is as easy as brown, assemble, and bake. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.
- Preheat and Prepare: First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
- Season the Filling: Stir the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef mixture. Simmer for a minute to let the flavors meld together.
- Prepare the Rolls: Carefully slice the entire slab of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally without separating them. A long serrated knife works best for this. Place the bottom half of the rolls into your prepared baking dish.
- Assemble the Sliders: Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over the bottom buns. Next, layer the dill pickle slices over the beef, followed by the slices of cheddar cheese. Place the top half of the rolls back on.
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Brush and Bake: Evenly brush the butter mixture over the tops of the rolls. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Melt and Brown: Remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and the tops are golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Serve Warm: Let the sliders cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This helps them hold together. Enjoy!
For another great slider idea, check out our easy pizza sliders recipe. They’re always a huge hit!
Pro Tips for a No-Soggy Bottom
The number one concern with sliders is a soggy bottom bun. Here are some expert tips to ensure your Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders have a sturdy base.
- Drain the Beef Thoroughly: This is the most crucial step. After browning the beef, make sure to drain every last bit of grease from the skillet.
- Toast the Buns: For extra insurance, you can lightly toast the bottom slab of rolls before assembling. Just place them cut-side up on a baking sheet and bake for 3-4 minutes at 350°F.
- Create a Cheese Barrier: Place a layer of cheese on the bottom buns before adding the meat mixture. This creates a barrier that helps prevent the juices from soaking into the bread.
Fun and Delicious Variations to Try
While the classic recipe is fantastic, these sliders are incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to switch things up.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Sliders: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the ground beef mixture for a smoky, savory twist. A fan favorite for a reason!
- Spicy Jalapeño Sliders: Mix in some diced jalapeños with the onion or add a layer of pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
- Mushroom Swiss Sliders: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the ground beef and use Swiss cheese for a classic flavor combination.
- Different Sauces: Try mixing a little BBQ sauce or ketchup into the beef, or serve them with a side of your favorite burger sauce for dipping. If you like unique sauces, our miso pasta sauce might inspire you.
What to Serve With Your Sliders
These Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders are hearty enough for a meal but also play well with others. Complete your spread with these easy and delicious sides.
- Classic Fries: You can’t go wrong with a side of crispy french fries or sweet potato fries.
- Creamy Soups: Pair them with a comforting soup like this crock pot potato soup for a perfect lunch combination.
- Fresh Salads: A simple green salad or a creamy coleslaw can provide a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve with a side of honey balsamic brussels sprouts or roasted broccoli.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
These sliders are a fantastic make-ahead option for parties, saving you precious time on the day of the event.
To Make Ahead:
You can fully assemble the sliders (without the butter topping) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, prepare and add the butter topping, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the initial covered baking time to account for the cold temperature.
To Store and Reheat:
Store leftover sliders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, it’s best to use the oven or an air fryer to maintain their texture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is possible but may make the buns soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! You can assemble the sliders without the butter topping up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, add the topping and bake, adding a few extra minutes to the initial covered baking time.
The best way is to drain the cooked ground beef mixture very thoroughly. For extra insurance, you can lightly toast the bottom buns before assembling or place a layer of cheese on the buns before adding the beef to create a moisture barrier.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This method helps keep the buns from getting soft, unlike a microwave.
They pair perfectly with classic sides like french fries, tater tots, a simple green salad, coleslaw, or a comforting soup. For a healthier option, serve them with roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts.
Classic cheddar cheese provides a great melt and traditional cheeseburger flavor. However, American cheese, Provolone, and Pepper Jack are also excellent options that melt well and taste delicious.
The Perfect Party Sliders
This Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a centerpiece for connection and good times. It’s the kind of food that brings everyone together around the table, sparking conversation and creating memories. Easy, delicious, and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try, and watch it become a new family favorite!
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Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders
Hawaiian Roll Cheeseburger Sliders: The Ultimate Party Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned. Drain off all excess grease.
- Stir 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the beef. Mix well.
- Without separating the rolls, slice the slab of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the bottom buns. Top with dill pickle slices, then the cheddar cheese slices.
- Place the top half of the rolls on top of the cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, and 1 tsp of Worcestershire sauce.
- Brush the butter mixture evenly over the tops of the rolls and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
Tip 2: Make Ahead Wonder. Assemble the sliders completely (without the butter topping) up to 24 hours ahead. Store covered in the fridge. Add the topping just before baking.
Tip 3: Customization is Key. Feel free to add cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or use different cheeses like Provolone or Pepper Jack to make them your own.
