French Onion Beef Sliders are tiny burgers packed with juicy beef and topped with rich, sweet caramelized onions and melted cheese. They’re like a flavor party in every bite!
These sliders are perfect for game day or a fun dinner. I love serving them with a side of crispy fries. Just be careful, they might make you want to eat more than one… or two! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend for great flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind they may be less juicy.
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for caramelizing because they turn sweet and soft. If you don’t have yellow onions, sweet onions like Vidalia can work, but avoid using red onions as they won’t caramelize the same way.
Gruyère Cheese: Gruyère adds wonderful flavor and meltiness. If you can’t find it, substitutes like Swiss or even mozzarella can work, although the flavor won’t be quite the same. A mixture of different cheeses can also create a unique flavor.
Beef Broth: For a lighter option, vegetable broth is a great substitution. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall flavor a bit. For more depth, use homemade broth if you have it!
How Do You Caramelize Onions Perfectly?
Caramelizing onions is key to enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor in this recipe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat; if it’s too high, they can burn instead of caramelize.
- Use a mix of butter and oil for cooking; butter adds flavor, while oil raises the smoke point.
- Stir occasionally, around every 5-10 minutes; this helps them cook evenly without sticking.
- Don’t rush! Give them at least 25-30 minutes to become beautifully golden and sweet.
- Adding sugar and thyme halfway through boosts sweetness and flavor, so don’t skip that step!
Following these tips will ensure your onions are perfectly caramelized and full of flavor!
French Onion Beef Sliders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Patties:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Caramelized Onions:
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
For the Sliders:
- 1/2 cup beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 12 slider buns (soft dinner rolls or brioche buns)
- 6 ounces Gruyère cheese, thinly sliced or shredded
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and about 30-35 minutes for cooking. Altogether, you’re looking at around 50-55 minutes from start to finish. It’s a bit of a labor of love, but the delicious sliders you’ll create are totally worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Add the sliced onions and stir to coat them evenly. Let the onions cook slowly for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn a beautiful golden brown and caramelize. About halfway through, sprinkle in the sugar and thyme to boost the flavor and help with the caramelization.
2. Add Beef Broth and Worcestershire:
Once your onions are perfectly caramelized and golden, it’s time to elevate their flavor! Add in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Let them simmer for about 5 minutes until the liquid reduces, making the onions sticky and full of flavor. Then, remove the skillet from heat and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Beef Patties:
While the onions are cooking, divide the ground beef into 12 equal portions. Shape each portion into a small patty, making them just slightly larger than the slider buns. Season both sides with a sprinkle of salt and pepper so they’ll be tasty!
4. Cook the Beef Patties:
Now it’s time to cook! Heat a grill or another skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness. Remember not to press down on them while they cook; this keeps the juicy goodness inside!
5. Assemble the Sliders:
Slice the slider buns in half, and if you like, give them a light toast for extra flavor! Take the bottom half of each bun and spoon a generous portion of caramelized onions onto it. Place a beef patty on top, then add a slice of Gruyère cheese.
6. Melt the Cheese:
To get that gooey, melty cheese layer, place the assembled bottoms on a baking sheet and pop them under the broiler for about 1-2 minutes. You can also cover the skillet with a lid to help the cheese melt nicely!
7. Finish Up the Sliders:
Once the cheese is melted, top the sliders with the bun tops. For a touch of color and freshness, feel free to sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving!
8. Serve Immediately:
Arrange your magnificent French Onion Beef Sliders on a platter, and serve warm as a tasty appetizer or a delightful meal. Enjoy every delicious bite of these gooey, savory sliders!
These sliders deliver a juicy beef bite with sweet, rich caramelized onions and nutty melted Gruyère—the perfect handheld twist on classic French onion flavors!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can definitely use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative! Just be aware that these meats tend to be less juicy than beef, so consider adding a bit of moisture, like sautéed mushrooms or a touch of olive oil, to enhance flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Sliders?
To store leftovers, place the sliders in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, so the buns don’t get soggy.
Can I Make the Caramelized Onions Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can caramelize the onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just reheat them in a skillet before assembling the sliders to bring back their lovely texture and flavor.
What If I Can’t Find Gruyère Cheese?
If Gruyère is unavailable, you can substitute it with Swiss cheese or even mozzarella. While the flavor might differ slightly, you’ll still achieve a tasty, melty topping for your sliders!
