Description

These Cowboy Sliders are packed with bold flavors—juicy ground beef, spicy jalapeños, and melted cheese, all tucked inside soft slider buns. Perfect for game days, backyard BBQs, or quick weeknight meals, these mini burgers bring a smoky, slightly spicy kick that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

For the Beef Patties:

Ground Beef (1 lb, 80/20 blend) – Juicy and flavorful.
Jalapeño (1–2, finely diced) – Adds a spicy kick.
Cheddar Cheese (½ cup, shredded) – Classic, melty goodness.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Deepens the savory flavor.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a smoky, BBQ-like taste.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Boosts the flavor.
Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Enhances all the ingredients.

For the Sliders:

Slider Buns (12-pack, Hawaiian rolls work great!) – Soft and slightly sweet.
Butter (2 tbsp, melted) – For toasting the buns.
Cheddar or Pepper Jack Cheese (6 slices, halved) – Extra cheesiness!
Crispy Fried Onions (½ cup, optional) – Adds crunch.
BBQ Sauce (¼ cup, optional) – For extra flavor.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large bowl, mix ground beef, diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Gently combine (don’t overmix) and shape into 12 small patties about 2½ inches wide.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

Grill Method: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Skillet Method: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the patties for 3–4 minutes per side.
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top of each patty and let it melt.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

Brush the inside of each slider bun with melted butter.
Toast in a skillet or oven at 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble the Sliders

Spread a little BBQ sauce on the bottom buns (if using).
Place a cheesy beef patty on each bun.
Top with crispy fried onions (optional) and extra jalapeño slices for more heat.
Place the top bun and serve immediately!

Notes

Use 80/20 Beef: The fat keeps the patties juicy.
Adjust the Spice: Use fewer jalapeños for a milder taste or add extra for more heat.
Don’t Overmix the Meat: This keeps the patties tender.
Melt Cheese Properly: Cover the pan for 30 seconds to help it melt faster.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American