Classic Diner-Style Beef Sliders with Melty American Cheese
Transport yourself to the iconic diners of the past with these deliciously juicy beef sliders inspired by the beloved G & A Restaurant in Baltimore. These mini burgers are made with high-quality ground beef, perfectly seasoned, and topped with rich, gooey American cheese that melts beautifully for a flavor explosion in every bite. The addition of grated onion infuses the patties with a subtle sweetness, while the buttery toasted buns and your choice of condiments take these sliders to the next level of comfort food bliss. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a fun weeknight treat, these sliders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Spanish onion
1 (grated or chopped fine in a food processor)
ground beef
1.5 lbs (80/20, at room temperature)
butter
1/4 cup (clarified or melted)
fine sea salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
American cheese slices
8
mini burger rolls
8 (buttered and lightly toasted)
ketchup
to taste
mustard
to taste
dill pickles
to taste
additional condiments and garnishes
to taste
Instructions
1
Wrap the grated onion in a damp cheesecloth and wring out as much liquid as possible into a small bowl. Add about 1/4 cup of water to the onion juice and set aside. Discard the remaining solids.
2
Preheat a griddle or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. While heating, portion the ground beef into 8 loose balls, being careful not to pack them tightly to maintain the meat's natural juiciness.
3
Melt a few tablespoons of clarified butter onto the griddle, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Season the tops of each beef ball with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
4
Carefully place the beef balls onto the hot griddle and sear for about 1 minute on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. Lower the heat or move the patties to indirect heat for additional cooking to your desired doneness (medium is recommended).
5
Once cooked to your liking, top each slider with a slice of American cheese. Pour a little of the reserved onion juice around the sliders to create steam, helping the cheese melt perfectly into the meat.
6
Toast the mini burger rolls lightly on the griddle and assemble the sliders by placing the cheeseburgers on the buns. Add your favorite condiments such as ketchup, mustard, dill pickles, and any other desired toppings before serving.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the inspiration behind these Classic Diner-Style Beef Sliders?
These sliders are inspired by the iconic G & A Restaurant in Baltimore, known for its classic diner flavors.
What type of ground beef is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of 80/20 ground beef brought to room temperature for the best flavor and juiciness.
How many sliders does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to produce 8 delicious mini beef sliders.
What is the secret ingredient for the slider's flavor profile?
Grated Spanish onion is used to create a seasoned steam that infuses the meat and melts the cheese.
How do I prepare the onion for these sliders?
Grate the Spanish onion, wrap it in cheesecloth, and wring out the juice into a bowl. Use the juice and discard the solids.
Why do I need to add water to the onion juice?
Adding about 1/4 cup of water to the onion juice creates enough liquid to steam the sliders and melt the cheese perfectly.
What should the texture of the beef balls be before cooking?
The ground beef should be portioned into 8 loose balls. Avoid packing them tightly to maintain their natural juiciness.
What is the best cooking surface for these sliders?
A griddle or a cast-iron skillet preheated over medium-high heat is ideal for achieving a diner-style sear.
What type of butter should I use on the griddle?
Clarified butter or melted butter is recommended to prevent burning while providing a rich flavor.
How do I season the beef sliders?
Season the tops of each beef ball with fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper once they are placed on the griddle.
How long should I sear the beef balls?
Sear the beef for about 1 minute on each side until a golden-brown crust forms.
What is the recommended doneness for these sliders?
Medium doneness is recommended for the best balance of texture and flavor.
Which cheese is best for a classic diner taste?
American cheese slices are used because they melt beautifully and provide a nostalgic, gooey texture.
How do I ensure the cheese melts perfectly into the meat?
Pour a little of the reserved onion juice around the sliders on the griddle to create steam, which helps the cheese melt.
What kind of buns should be used for sliders?
Use 8 mini burger rolls that have been buttered and lightly toasted.
Should I toast the burger rolls?
Yes, lightly toasting the rolls on the griddle enhances the texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
What classic condiments are suggested for these sliders?
Ketchup, mustard, and dill pickles are the traditional choices for these diner-style burgers.
Are these sliders suitable for large groups?
Absolutely, they are perfect for game day, family gatherings, or any party setting.
How do I avoid a dry burger patty?
By using 80/20 beef, not over-packing the meat balls, and using the onion juice steam method, the patties stay juicy.
Can I add other toppings to these sliders?
Yes, you can add any additional condiments or garnishes you desire to customize your sliders.
What temperature should the griddle be?
The griddle should be preheated to medium-high heat to ensure a proper sear.
Why use Spanish onions specifically?
Spanish onions provide a subtle sweetness that complements the savory beef without overpowering it.
Do I put the onion solids in the burger?
No, the recipe specifically instructs to discard the solids and only use the expressed juice.
Can I make these on a regular stovetop?
Yes, a cast-iron skillet on a stovetop works perfectly as a substitute for a commercial griddle.
What makes these sliders 'comfort food'?
The combination of juicy beef, melty American cheese, and buttery toasted buns creates a classic comfort flavor profile.
Is fine sea salt better than table salt for this recipe?
Fine sea salt is preferred for its clean taste and ability to dissolve quickly into the searing meat.
How much ground beef is needed per slider?
With 1.5 lbs of beef for 8 sliders, each patty is approximately 3 ounces.
Can I prepare the onion juice in advance?
Yes, you can grate and wring the onion juice shortly before cooking to save time during the searing process.
What role does the black pepper play?
Freshly ground black pepper adds a mild heat and aromatic depth that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
How do I assemble the final slider?
Place the cheeseburger patty on the toasted bottom bun, add your condiments and pickles, and top with the other half of the bun.