Mini Hamburgers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mini Hamburgers are the ultimate comfort food, packed with all the flavors of a regular burger but in a smaller, more convenient size. They’re great for serving a crowd, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a game day gathering, or a casual dinner. You can customize each slider with different toppings and sauces, making them easy to personalize for everyone’s tastes. With a simple preparation and quick cooking time, these mini burgers are both satisfying and fun!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juicy burgers)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 12 mini burger buns (slider buns)

• 12 slices cheese (cheddar, American, or your choice)

• Lettuce leaves (optional)

• Sliced tomatoes (optional)

• Sliced pickles (optional)

• Ketchup and mustard (optional)

• Mayonnaise (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the patties:

   • In a bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Gently mix to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep the burgers tender.

   • Divide the mixture into 12 even portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten them into small patties about 2-3 inches in diameter.

2. Cook the patties:

   • Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the grill or in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side for medium doneness. Adjust the time depending on your preferred level of doneness. If using cheese, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty about a minute before the burger is done to allow it to melt.

3. Toast the buns:

   • While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the mini buns on the grill or in a toaster for about 1-2 minutes, until they are slightly golden and crispy.

4. Assemble the sliders:

   • Once the patties and buns are ready, assemble the mini hamburgers by placing a patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, and condiments like ketchup, mustard, or mayo. Top with the other half of the bun.

5. Serve:

   • Serve the sliders immediately, either individually or as a tray for guests to enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12 mini burgers

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Cheese options: Try different cheeses like Swiss, blue cheese, or pepper jack for more variety and flavor.

• Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, avocado slices, or even a fried egg for a unique twist on the classic slider.

• Vegan option: Substitute the beef with plant-based burger patties for a vegan-friendly version. You can also use vegan cheese and toppings.

• Seasonings: Add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to the beef mixture for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Mini Hamburgers are best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the sliders in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave’s strength.

FAQs

1. Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This makes it easier to cook them quickly when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match the milder flavor of the poultry.

3. Can I make mini burgers without buns?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can skip the buns and serve the mini patties wrapped in lettuce leaves or over a bed of greens.

4. How do I know when my burgers are cooked through?

The best way to ensure your burgers are cooked to your desired level of doneness is to use a meat thermometer. For medium burgers, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

5. Can I freeze these mini burgers?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties before grilling. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for long-term storage. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling.

6. Can I cook these burgers on the stovetop?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the mini burgers in a skillet or on a griddle over medium-high heat. Just make sure to use a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.

7. What’s the best way to assemble the sliders?

You can layer the toppings in any order you like, but it’s typically best to start with the sauce or condiments on the bottom bun, followed by the patty, cheese, and then fresh veggies like lettuce and tomatoes.

8. Can I use any kind of bread for the buns?

Yes, you can use regular slider buns, brioche buns, or even whole wheat or gluten-free buns for a different flavor or dietary preference.

9. Can I add a special sauce to the sliders?

Yes! A special sauce like BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a homemade burger sauce (mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickles) can elevate the sliders and add more flavor.

10. How can I make these mini burgers spicy?

To add some spice, try using pepper jack cheese, adding a few slices of jalapeños, or mixing hot sauce into the beef mixture.

Conclusion

Mini Hamburgers are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic burger in a smaller, more portable format. With juicy patties, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings, these sliders are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a casual dinner, or simply indulging in a tasty snack, these mini burgers offer a satisfying bite-sized experience. Get creative with the toppings and sauces, and enjoy these sliders anytime you’re in the mood for something tasty and fun!