Tasty Smash Burger Sliders Kids Love Easy Summer Lunch Recipe

why make this recipe

Tasty Smash Burger Sliders are a fun and easy meal that kids absolutely love! These sliders are not only delicious but also perfect for summer lunches. They are quick to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy days. Plus, getting kids involved in cooking can be a great way to teach them about food and help create lasting memories together.

how to make Tasty Smash Burger Sliders

Ingredients :

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef, 80/20 blend
• 8 small slider buns (potato buns recommended)
• 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons softened butter
• Pickles, sliced (optional)
• Ketchup (to taste)
• Mustard (to taste)
• Lettuce leaves, small (optional)

Directions :

1. Preheat your cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes until smoking hot.
2. In a mixing bowl, gently season ground beef with salt and black pepper. Combine without overmixing.
3. Divide the meat into 8 equal portions (about 2 ounces / 60 g each) and loosely form into balls.
4. Spread softened butter on the cut side of each slider bun. Toast butter-side down on a separate pan or grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
5. Place 2-3 meatballs in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Using a sturdy spatula, press each ball firmly into a thin patty about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Hold pressure for 10-15 seconds.
6. Cook patties undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until edges are crispy and browned. Flip carefully, add a slice of cheese on top, and cook another 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and patties are cooked through.
7. Assemble sliders by placing patties on toasted buns. Add pickles, ketchup, mustard, and lettuce as desired.
8. Serve immediately while hot and fresh.

how to serve Tasty Smash Burger Sliders

These sliders are best served hot right off the skillet. Place them on a big platter to let everyone grab their own. You can also add extra toppings like more pickles or different sauces to please everyone’s taste.

how to store Tasty Smash Burger Sliders

If you have any leftovers, let the sliders cool down a bit. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat again, you can reheat them in a skillet or microwave until warm.

tips to make Tasty Smash Burger Sliders

• Make sure your skillet is really hot before adding the meat. This helps get that nice crust on the patties.
• Don’t overmix the beef when seasoning. This keeps the patties tender.
• Use fresh ingredients for toppings to enhance the flavors even more.
• You can experiment with different cheeses or buns to find your family’s favorite.

variation

For a fun twist, add some chopped onions to the beef mix for extra flavor. You can also try using turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

FAQs

1. Can I make these sliders ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the patties earlier in the day, but it’s best to cook them fresh when ready to serve for the best taste.

2. What if I don’t have slider buns?
   You can use regular hamburger buns or even sliced bread in a pinch. Just adjust the size of the patties as needed.

3. Can I freeze the cooked sliders?
   Yes, cooked sliders can be frozen. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat before serving.