These French Onion Beef Sliders are mini burgers packed with juicy beef, sweet caramelized onions, and ooey-gooey cheese. They are perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
When making these sliders, I can’t resist adding extra onions—they’re just that good! Serve them warm, and watch everyone come back for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80% lean ground beef for juiciness and flavor. If you’re looking for lower fat options, try ground turkey or even plant-based alternatives for a meat-free version.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing due to their sweetness. If you prefer a sharper taste, you can mix in some red onions or even a bit of shallots.
Cheese: Swiss cheese is classic, but I like using Gruyere for its rich flavor. If you can’t find either, mozzarella or provolone can also work, giving you that melty texture.
Beef Broth: For a lighter flavor, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Homemade broth is a great option if you have it on hand!
How Do You Get the Onions Perfectly Caramelized?
Caramelizing onions may seem tricky, but it’s all about patience and the right heat. You want them to cook slowly to develop that deep rich color and sweet flavor.
- Start by melting the butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and sugar.
- Stir occasionally to help them cook evenly, which takes about 30-40 minutes.
- For the last 2 minutes, add minced garlic and thyme to boost flavor.
Let the onions become beautifully golden; don’t rush this step—it’s worth the wait! You’ll end up with a rich topping that complements the beef sliders perfectly.
French Onion Beef Sliders
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80% lean)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup beef broth (or low sodium beef stock)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 12 slider buns or small dinner rolls, split
- 6 slices Swiss or Gruyère cheese, halved
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 1 hour in total. You’ll spend around 40 minutes cooking the onions and patties, and the rest will be for assembling and toasting the buns. It’s a quick process, and the sliders are definitely worth the time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and sprinkle the sugar over them. Stir occasionally as they cook slowly—this helps develop their sweet flavor. Keep cooking for about 30-40 minutes until they turn a deep golden color. During the last 2 minutes, mix in the minced garlic and fresh thyme for added flavor.
2. Deglaze the Pan:
Once the onions are caramelized, pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet. This will lift those delicious brown bits from the pan. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until most of the broth gets absorbed and the onions look glossy and flavorful. Then, remove from heat and set aside.
3. Prepare the Beef Patties:
While your onions are caramelizing, preheat a grill or skillet on medium-high heat. Season the ground beef generously with salt and pepper. Form the beef into 12 small patties that fit your slider buns nicely.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium, or until they reach your desired doneness. The key is to not press down on the patties while they cook to keep them juicy!
5. Add Cheese:
In the last minute of cooking, place a half slice of Swiss or Gruyère cheese on each patty. Cover the grill or skillet briefly to help the cheese melt beautifully.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, take the slider buns and toast them lightly in a separate pan or your oven. You want them to be golden and warm!
7. Assemble the Sliders:
Now for the fun part! Take the bottom half of each toasted bun and place the cheese-topped patty on it. Spoon on a generous helping of the caramelized onions. Finally, place the top half of the bun on each slider.
8. Serve:
Arrange your sliders on a serving platter. Feel free to garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color. Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
These French Onion Beef Sliders are perfect for gatherings, game days, or even just a cozy night in. Enjoy every bite of these delicious little treats!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be a great substitute for ground beef! Just keep in mind that turkey is leaner, so adding a little extra seasoning or moisture, like a splash of Worcestershire sauce, can enhance the flavor and juiciness.
Can I Make These Sliders in Advance?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions and cook the beef patties ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, warm them up and assemble the sliders!
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Besides caramelized onions and cheese, feel free to get creative! Sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or even a dollop of your favorite sauce, like BBQ or aioli, can all make delicious additions to your sliders.
