Gourmet Burger Sliders with Red Cabbage Slaw, Cheese, and Spicy Sauce
If you’re looking to elevate your burger game, gourmet burger sliders are the way to go. These mini burgers pack a punch of flavor in every bite, combining juicy beef patties, melted cheese, a crunchy red cabbage slaw, and a spicy sauce that brings just the right amount of heat. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or just a fun family dinner, these sliders are both easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Gourmet Burger Sliders
Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 10 min
Ingredients
For the Sliders:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 6 slider buns (brioche recommended)
- 6 slices of cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack cheese
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
For the Red Cabbage Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded red cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spicy Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lime juice
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Slaw
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded red cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. In a separate small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss until well coated. Let it sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Make the Spicy Sauce
In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, sriracha, Dijon mustard, lime juice, and smoked paprika until smooth. Adjust the heat level by adding more sriracha if desired. Set aside.
Step 3: Form and Cook the Patties
In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape them into small patties slightly larger than the slider buns (they will shrink slightly when cooked).
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your preferred doneness. In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheese on each patty and cover the pan to let it melt.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, melt butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Place the buns cut-side down and toast until golden brown, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Spread a generous layer of the spicy sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy patty on top, then add a heap of the red cabbage slaw. Finish with the top bun and gently press down.
Serving Suggestions
These gourmet sliders pair perfectly with sweet potato fries, crispy onion rings, or a light salad. If you’re serving them at a gathering, consider offering extra toppings like avocado slices, pickled jalapeños, or caramelized onions so guests can customize their sliders.
