About this recipe

Juicy, perfectly seasoned mini beef patties nestled in soft, toasted slider buns with melty American cheese, crisp pickles, and a tangy special sauce. These crowd-pleasing sliders are quick to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast — whether it's game day, a backyard cookout, or a fun weeknight dinner.

Instructions

1. 1

   In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white wine vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use — the sauce improves as it sits.

2. 2

   In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently with your hands until just combined — do not overwork the meat or the patties will become tough.

3. 3

   Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz each). Shape each portion into a round ball, then press flat into a patty about 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Use your thumb to press a shallow dimple into the center of each patty — this prevents them from puffing up during cooking.

4. 4

   Heat a cast iron skillet over ^[medium-high heat] until very hot, about 2 minutes. Add the butter and swirl to coat. Working in batches if needed, add the patties and cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes, until a deep brown crust forms on the bottom.

5. 5

   Flip each patty and immediately place a slice of American cheese on top. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes for ^[medium] doneness (%[internal temperature of 160°F] for food safety). Remove patties to a plate and tent loosely with aluminum foil while you toast the buns.

6. 6

   Reduce the heat to ^[medium]. Lightly butter the cut sides of all the slider buns. Place them cut-side down in the same cast iron skillet and toast for 1 to 2 minutes until golden and lightly crisped. Watch closely — they toast quickly.

7. 7

   Spread a generous amount of special sauce on both the top and bottom of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy patty on each bottom bun. Top with dill pickle chips, and add shredded iceberg lettuce, tomato slices, and white onion rings if using.

8. 8

   Place the top buns on and serve immediately. Arrange on a platter for a crowd, or serve 2 sliders per person as a main with fries or a side salad.