Ingredients

2 teaspoons olive oil

1 pound lean ground beef (10% fat) or medium ground beef (20% fat)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons mayonnaise (regular or light)

2 tablespoons BBQ sauce (or ketchup)

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons butter

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon brown sugar (or maple syrup)

2 teaspoons sesame seeds (or Everything Bagel Seasoning)

12 Hawaiian rolls (1 package)

8 slices cheddar cheese or 6–8 ounces shredded cheese

1 tablespoon soft butter (to spread on pan)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a baking dish or sheet pan with parchment paper or foil and spray with oil. For buttery, slightly crispy bottoms, spread a thin layer of soft butter directly on the pan surface.

Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 5–6 minutes until golden brown, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spatula and cook until most or all pink is gone, about 3 minutes. Turn off heat. Move the mixture to one side, tilt the skillet, and spoon off excess grease or blot with a paper towel to prevent soggy sliders.

Step 4: Stir in mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally, keeping the rolls intact (do not separate each roll).

Step 6: On the bottom half of the rolls, layer slices of cheddar cheese to cover, then spread the beef mixture evenly on top. Add another layer of cheese slices over the beef. Replace the top half of the rolls.

Step 7: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine butter, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar. Microwave for 25 seconds, then stir well to combine.

Step 8: Brush the glaze evenly over the tops of the rolls. Immediately sprinkle sesame seeds on top so they stick.

Step 9: Place the assembled sliders on the prepared pan and bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes.

Step 10: Remove from oven and carefully cut into individual sliders along the roll lines using a serrated knife. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, use medium-fat ground beef for juicier sliders.

Substitute BBQ sauce with ketchup or a spicy sriracha mayo for different tastes.

Try adding pickles, sliced jalapeños, or caramelized onions inside the sliders for variety.

Use Everything Bagel Seasoning instead of sesame seeds for a more savory topping.

To save time, prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate before assembling.

FAQs

Can I make these sliders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and assemble the sliders a few hours or a day in advance. Keep them covered in the fridge and bake just before serving for the best texture.