Cheeseburger Hawaiian Roll Sliders

These cheeseburger sliders built on soft Hawaiian rolls are my go to when I want all the flavors of a classic burger with nowhere near the mess or time. They are quick enough for busy weeknights and absolutely made for parties You get juicy beef cheesy layers and a golden buttery top that makes everyone reach for seconds fast

I first whipped these up for a last minute game night and could not keep them on the platter long enough to cool down Now my nephews ask for them every holiday

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef or medium ground beef: for that perfect balance of juiciness and flavor look for bright cherry red color at the store
• Finely chopped onion: to add a hint of sweetness and moisture pick firm onions without soft spots
• Mayonnaise: for creaminess regular or light works use real mayo for the best melt in flavor
• BBQ sauce or ketchup: for a smoky or tangy kick choose your favorite brand but quality BBQ sauce gives awesome depth
• Garlic powder: to punch up the flavor go for fresh smelling powder not one that’s lost its aroma
• Kosher salt: to bring out all those savory notes larger flakes season evenly
• Black pepper: for that touch of warmth try to use freshly ground
• Butter: for richness in the glaze and to make the rolls extra golden European style butter bakes up even tastier
• Dijon mustard: which gives the glaze tanginess real Dijon packs the best sharp flavor
• Brown sugar or maple syrup: to add a hint of depth and caramelization use soft and clump free brown sugar
• Sesame seeds or Everything Bagel Seasoning: for that classic slider look opt for toasted seeds for extra crunch
• Hawaiian rolls: the sweet and pillowy backbone of these sliders check that they are squishy and fresh not dry
• Cheddar cheese sliced or shredded: for full meltiness higher quality sharp cheddar makes these pop but use your favorite melty cheese
• Soft butter for the pan: to make that crisp bottom effect spread with a spatula while cool

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Pan:

Line your baking dish or sheet pan with parchment or foil to keep cleanup a breeze Once lined spread a thin layer of soft butter directly on the pan surface This step helps create those amazing crispy slider bottoms you dream about

Cook the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat Add the finely chopped onions and stir regularly for 5 to 6 minutes until they are soft and golden This builds a deep savory base for your sliders

Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef to the onions Break it up with a spatula and cook until most of the pink has disappeared This takes about 3 minutes Do not rush this step Let it brown for better flavor

Finish the Beef Mixture:

Turn off the heat Tip the skillet and spoon off as much grease as you can or blot with paper towel to avoid soggy sliders Stir in mayonnaise BBQ sauce garlic powder kosher salt and pepper Mix thoroughly Taste and if you like add a pinch more seasoning

Prepare the Rolls:

With a serrated knife carefully slice the entire block of Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally keep the rolls attached Lay the bottom half in the pan Cover completely with half the sliced cheese

Assemble the Sliders:

Pile all the beef mixture evenly over the cheese layer Top it with the remaining cheese Lay the top half of the rolls over the cheese so everything lines up again

Make and Brush the Glaze:

In a microwave safe bowl combine butter Dijon and brown sugar Microwave about 25 seconds then stir until smooth Brush generously over the tops of the rolls Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly so they stick well

Bake and Serve:

Put the pan in the preheated oven Bake uncovered at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes until the cheese is gooey and the tops have taken on a beautiful golden sheen Remove from the oven and use a serrated knife to slice into individual sliders Serve hot while the cheese is perfectly melty

Pin it

Cheddar is my favorite cheese for these sliders because it melts into every little corner and adds just the right amount of tang I will never forget watching my family race to grab the cheesiest piece from the tray at our last reunion These moments make old fashioned comfort food extra special

Storage Tips

Let any leftover sliders cool to room temperature before moving to an airtight container Store in the fridge for up to three days If you want to enjoy them later in the week wrap them up so they do not dry out or pick up fridge odors

Ingredient Substitutions

Try ground turkey chicken or even plant based ground for the beef and you will still get juicy sliders Use dried onion soup mix for onion in a pinch For the cheese anything melty works like provolone fontina or even American For the rolls look for potato slider buns or dinner rolls if Hawaiian are unavailable

Serving Suggestions

Set out a range of dipping sauces like ketchup sriracha mayo ranch or chipotle sauce Pair with crispy fries a simple salad or pickles for the full burger experience They are also excellent as game day snacks stacked up next to wings and chips

Cultural Background

Sliders started as a diner and drive in classic known for being small savory and hand held Hawaiian rolls are a more recent twist giving sliders their sweet pillowy bite Everyone loves how approachable and shareable they are at big gatherings

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese melts best for these sliders?

Cheddar, American, provolone, gruyere, or pepper jack melt smoothly. Opt for slices or block cheese over pre-shredded for the best melt.

→ Can I prepare these sliders in advance?

Yes! Make the beef mixture and glaze ahead, store separately, then assemble and bake just before serving for fresh, warm sliders.

→ What are some roll alternatives for Hawaiian rolls?

Mini brioche buns, potato rolls, slider buns, or any soft dinner rolls work well. Adjust filling quantity for larger buns if needed.

→ How can I add extra flavor to the topping?

Try adding Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, or even Everything Bagel seasoning to the glaze for more zing and texture.

→ Are there meatless alternatives for the filling?

Use plant-based ground, such as lentil or soy crumbles, as a substitute. Season well and cook as you would with ground beef.

→ How do I reheat leftover sliders?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep them moist and prevent over-browning.