Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, juicy cheeseburger that fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. I’ve always loved sliders, but these Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls hold a special place in my heart. They combine all the flavor and fun of a classic cheeseburger, but with the soft, slightly sweet charm of Hawaiian rolls that take them to the next level.

Whether I’m making them for a game day spread, a casual family dinner, or just a quick weekend indulgence, these sliders never fail to impress. The melted cheddar, savory beef, and buttery, golden tops create an irresistible combo that’s always a hit. It’s one of those easy, crowd-pleasing recipes I keep coming back to again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

These sliders are pure comfort food with a playful twist. Hawaiian rolls offer a hint of sweetness that balances the salty richness of melted cheddar and juicy beef. They’re incredibly easy to assemble, making them perfect for parties or weeknight meals. And the best part? You can prep and bake them all in under 30 minutes—fast, flavorful, and totally satisfying.

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What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For the juiciest, most flavorful sliders, I prefer using 80/20 ground beef—that’s 80% lean meat to 20% fat. The fat keeps the beef moist and delicious, especially since we’re baking the sliders all together, which can sometimes dry out leaner meats. If you’re looking to cut back on fat, you can use 90/10 or even ground turkey, but be prepared to sacrifice a bit of richness.

You’ll want the beef to hold together well as it cooks, so avoid extra lean blends that can result in crumbly or dry patties. Browning the beef with a bit of seasoning before assembling ensures each bite is full of flavor and texture.

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Options for Substitutions

The beauty of these sliders is their flexibility. You can easily tweak ingredients based on what you have or your dietary needs:

• Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to use American, provolone, Swiss, or even pepper jack for some kick.
• Meat: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground alternatives work great if you’re avoiding red meat.
• Rolls: Hawaiian rolls are key for their slight sweetness, but brioche or dinner rolls can also work if needed.
• Toppings: Add sliced pickles, caramelized onions, or even a smear of mustard or ketchup inside the rolls before baking.
• Gluten-free: Substitute with your favorite gluten-free buns and check that all condiments are gluten-free as well.
• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and skip the butter topping or use a plant-based version.

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Ingredients for This Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls Recipe

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a delicious role, balancing texture, flavor, and that oh-so-satisfying bite-sized experience.

• Ground Beef (80/20) – This is the star of the show, providing savory richness and moisture to each slider. It cooks up juicy and flavorful, especially when browned with seasonings.
• Hawaiian Rolls – Their soft, fluffy texture and subtle sweetness pair perfectly with the savory beef and cheese. They also make assembly easy since they stay connected until you’re ready to pull them apart.
• Cheddar Cheese Slices – Melty, sharp, and classic. The cheese melts into the beef and clings to the rolls, making every bite irresistibly gooey.
• Onion Powder & Garlic Powder – These simple pantry staples add depth and classic burger flavor to the ground beef without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning the meat. They highlight the beef’s natural flavor and balance the sweetness of the rolls.
• Butter – Brushed on top before baking, the butter helps the sliders develop a golden, slightly crisp top that contrasts beautifully with the pillowy interior.
• Sesame Seeds (optional) – For a traditional burger bun finish, sprinkle these over the buttered tops for a bit of crunch and visual flair.

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Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well so every bite is flavorful.

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Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it preheats, line a baking dish or sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

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Step 3: Prepare the Hawaiian Rolls

Without separating the individual rolls, slice the entire pack of Hawaiian rolls horizontally. Place the bottom half in the prepared baking dish, keeping the rolls attached for easy layering.

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Step 4: Layer the Filling

Spread the cooked and seasoned ground beef evenly over the bottom half of the rolls. Lay slices of cheddar cheese over the beef, covering it edge to edge for full cheesy coverage.

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Step 5: Add the Top Buns

Place the top half of the Hawaiian rolls over the cheese. Press gently to set everything together.

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Step 6: Brush with Butter

Melt butter and brush it generously over the tops of the rolls. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds for that classic burger look.

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Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the sliders in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.

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Step 8: Slice and Serve

Use a serrated knife to cut between the rolls. Serve hot and watch them disappear!

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How Long to Cook the Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

These sliders bake up quickly, making them a great go-to when you need something fast but satisfying. Once assembled and brushed with butter, they should be baked in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted. If you like a crispier top, leave them in for an extra 2 minutes—but keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake.

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Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

• Don’t overcook the beef in the skillet – Stop cooking when it’s just browned; it will cook a bit more in the oven.
• Drain excess fat – If your ground beef renders a lot of grease, draining it prevents soggy bottoms on your rolls.
• Use thin cheese slices – They melt faster and layer more evenly without making the sliders too gooey.
• Press down gently before baking – This helps the filling and buns adhere slightly, making for cleaner bites.
• Cover with foil if needed – If your rolls brown too fast, loosely tent foil over them halfway through baking.
• Let them sit for a couple minutes after baking – This allows everything to set slightly, making slicing and serving easier.
• Customize the flavor – Add BBQ sauce, pickles, or even sautéed onions inside the sliders before baking for a fun twist.
• Use a sharp serrated knife to cut – It helps slice through without squishing the soft rolls or dragging the cheese.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple recipe like this has a few pitfalls that can affect the final outcome. Here’s what to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning – The ground beef needs salt and spices to come alive. Unseasoned meat will taste flat, even with cheese.
• Using cold rolls – If the rolls are straight from the fridge, they won’t warm up evenly. Let them come to room temp for even baking.
• Overfilling – Adding too much beef or cheese can make the sliders messy and hard to eat. Keep layers balanced.
• Soggy bottoms – Not draining the beef or adding wet toppings like raw tomatoes can make the rolls mushy.
• Cheese overflow – Make sure the cheese stays within the edges of the buns to avoid burning or sticking to the pan.
• Dry tops – Not brushing with butter can lead to tough or dry buns. The butter helps them toast and adds flavor.
• Uneven baking – Make sure your oven is fully preheated and that sliders are placed in the center of the oven.
• Cutting too soon – Let them rest a couple minutes after baking so the cheese sets slightly and they slice cleanly.

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What to Serve With Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls

French Fries

A classic side that pairs perfectly with sliders. Go for crinkle-cut, shoestring, or even sweet potato fries for variation.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the sliders.

Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges

A flavorful alternative to fries with crispy edges and cheesy seasoning.

Pickles & Slaw

Tangy dill pickles or creamy coleslaw add crunch and contrast.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Smoky, sweet, and buttery—corn on the cob brings summer vibes to your meal.

Onion Rings

Crispy and golden, onion rings add a satisfying crunch alongside soft, gooey sliders.

Cherry Tomato Skewers

Fresh and juicy, these little skewers can be seasoned or drizzled with balsamic glaze for a light side.

Cold Drinks or Shakes

Pair with a classic soda, a root beer float, or even a creamy vanilla milkshake for a nostalgic treat.

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Storage Instructions

Cheeseburger sliders are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they store quite well if you have leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Place cooled sliders in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual sliders in foil and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: For best texture, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes. Microwave works in a pinch, but the buns may get soft or soggy.

Tip: If reheating from frozen, keep them wrapped in foil for the first 10 minutes, then open up the foil for the last few minutes to re-crisp the tops.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per slider (based on a batch of 12):

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 14g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 430mg

Note: Values will vary based on exact brands and portion sizes used. For lighter options, consider leaner meat, low-fat cheese, or using half a bun per serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of cheese melts best for these sliders?

Cheddar is a go-to for its sharp flavor and reliable melt, but American cheese, provolone, or pepper jack also work beautifully depending on your taste.

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Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the sliders up to the point of baking and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

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How do I prevent the bottoms from getting soggy?

Drain the beef well after cooking and avoid overly wet ingredients like tomatoes. You can also lightly toast the bottom rolls before assembling.

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Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

Absolutely. Leftover taco meat, seasoned beef, or even meat from another dish can be repurposed for this recipe to save time.

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Can I use shredded cheese instead of slices?

Yes, shredded cheese melts quickly and evenly. Just make sure to spread it in a uniform layer so each slider gets a good cheesy pull.

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Are these good for large parties?

They’re perfect for parties! Make a double or triple batch on a large baking sheet, then slice and serve. They hold up well and are easy to grab.

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What’s the best way to cut the sliders?

Use a sharp serrated knife and press down firmly in a straight line. Letting them cool for a couple minutes before slicing helps them stay neat.

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Can I make a spicy version of these?

Of course! Add diced jalapeños to the beef, use pepper jack cheese, or mix some hot sauce into the melted butter topping before brushing it on.

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Conclusion

These Cheeseburger Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls are everything a comfort food lover dreams about: juicy, cheesy, buttery, and just the right size for seconds (and thirds). They’re easy enough for a weeknight, yet crowd-pleasing enough for game day or a potluck. I love how the sweet rolls contrast with the savory beef, and how customizable the whole recipe is. Once you make them, you’ll see why they’re always gone in minutes—no leftovers, just happy smiles.

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