These French Onion Beef Sliders are mini burgers packed with flavor! Topped with gooey cheese and caramelized onions, they’re perfect for any gathering or just a fun weeknight meal.
Who can resist the taste of sweet, sautéed onions on a juicy slider? I can’t! I love serving these with a side of crispy fries for an easy dinner that feels fancy—perfect for my weekday cravings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for juicy sliders. If you want a leaner option, go for ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they might be less flavorful.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you prefer, you could use white onions or red onions, which will provide a slightly different flavor profile.
Cheese: Swiss is traditional, but Gruyère is my favorite for that true French onion taste. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Slider Buns: I love using soft dinner rolls, but you can substitute with whole grain or gluten-free buns for those with dietary needs.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Caramelized Onions?
Caramelizing onions properly is key to the depth of flavor in these sliders. Patience is essential! Here’s how to do it:
- Start with medium heat and melt equal parts butter and olive oil.
- Add your sliced onions along with sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
- Cook for 30-40 minutes until they turn a deep golden brown. Lower the heat if they start to brown too quickly.
- In the last 5 minutes, stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, enhancing that delicious flavor!
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-sliced onions, but the homemade caramelization makes a world of difference!
How to Make French Onion Beef Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80/20 blend)
- 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, divided
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 8 slider buns or small soft rolls
- 8 slices Swiss cheese (or Gruyère for a more authentic French onion flavor)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to cook, including the time for caramelizing the onions. In total, you’ll need about 55 minutes to make these delicious sliders. Perfect for a fun dinner or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and 1/4 tsp of black pepper. Stir frequently and be patient! You want to cook the onions until they’re beautifully browned and caramelized, which usually takes about 30-40 minutes. This step is crucial for developing that sweet onion flavor.
2. Add Broth & Worcestershire Sauce:
When your onions are caramelized and smelling amazing, add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 more minutes, until most of the liquid has evaporated. Remove the pan from heat and set the onion mixture aside.
3. Prepare the Beef Patties:
While your onions are finishing up, divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into small patties, making them slightly larger than your slider buns. Don’t forget to season both sides lightly with salt and the remaining black pepper.
4. Cook the Beef Patties:
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, cook the beef patties for about 3 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your liking. To get that melty cheese effect, place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking.
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Lightly toast your slider buns. On the bottom half of each bun, spread a generous layer of the caramelized onion mixture. Pop the cheesy beef patty on top, and then cover it with the top half of the bun.
6. Serve & Enjoy:
If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice color. Serve these warm and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite of your French Onion Beef Sliders!
These sliders are a delightful twist on a classic dish, making them perfect for casual hangouts or weeknight meals. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Swiss and Gruyère are classic choices for that authentic French onion flavor, you can also experiment with cheddar, provolone, or a dairy-free cheese option that melts well.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth, though this might slightly alter the flavor. For a richer taste, you could also use water mixed with a little soy sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
To store any leftover sliders, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Make the Onion Mixture in Advance?
Yes, caramelized onions can be made ahead of time! You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them gently on the stovetop before assembling your sliders.
