When I made this Juicy Burger Sliders with Garlic Aioli Recipe for the first time, I couldn’t stop smiling with every bite. I’ve always loved sliders, but the creamy garlic aioli took them to a whole new level. The aroma filled my kitchen, making me eager to taste them instantly.
These mini burgers are perfect for casual dinners, parties, or even cozy nights in. Trust me — once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make them again and again! You can also enjoy similar flavors with the Honey Curry Roasted Cauliflower Recipe for a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create juicy, flavorful sliders. I’ve added tips so you get the best possible results.
For the Patties
• 1 pound ground beef — Choose 80/20 beef for juicy, tender sliders. Lean beef can dry out quickly.
• 1 teaspoon salt — Enhances flavor and helps the patties stay juicy.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper — Freshly cracked pepper gives a deeper flavor than pre-ground.
For the Buns & Toppings
• 12 mini brioche buns — Soft and slightly sweet, perfect for sliders. Toasting them prevents sogginess.
• 12 slices sharp cheddar cheese — Melts beautifully and adds richness; slice fresh for better melt quality.
• 2 cups mixed lettuce leaves — Adds freshness and crunch.
• 1 cup quick-pickled cucumber slices — Provide tang and balance the richness of the burger; thinly sliced onions or jalapeños also work.
For the Garlic Aioli
• 1 cup mayonnaise — Forms the creamy base; use full-fat for best flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced — Fresh garlic creates bold, fresh taste. Avoid jarred garlic if possible.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard — Adds mild tang and depth.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice — Brightens and balances the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil — Adds smooth texture and richness.
Note: This recipe makes 12 sliders, serving approximately 4–6 people depending on appetite.
Variations
You can easily adapt these sliders depending on dietary needs or flavor preferences.
• Swap beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version; adding a tablespoon of oil keeps it moist. You might also try the Creamy Spaghetti Meatballs Recipe for a hearty dinner alongside these sliders.
• Use plant-based burger patties and vegan cheese for a vegetarian or vegan option.
• Mix sriracha or chipotle sauce into the aioli for a spicy twist.
• Add caramelized onions, bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor layers.
• Replace buns with lettuce wraps for a low-carb or keto-friendly version.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need from start to finish.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (including aioli chilling time)
Equipment You Need
These tools make preparation easier and cooking smoother.
• Large mixing bowl — Used to season and shape burger patties.
• Skillet or grill pan — For cooking patties and toasting buns.
• Whisk — Helps blend aioli ingredients smoothly.
• Meat thermometer — Ensures burgers cook safely without drying out.
• Spatula — Makes flipping patties easy without breaking them.
How to Make Juicy Burger Sliders with Garlic Aioli Recipe?
Making sliders is easier than it looks. Follow these simple steps for juicy, flavorful results every time. The key is not rushing the process and keeping ingredients simple. Each step helps build layers of flavor that make the sliders irresistible.
Prepare the Patties
I gently mix ground beef with salt and pepper until just combined, then divide it into 12 equal portions. I shape each into small patties slightly larger than the buns since they shrink while cooking. A small thumb indent in the center helps them cook evenly.
Make the Garlic Aioli
In a bowl, I whisk mayonnaise, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. I taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then refrigerate it so the flavors blend beautifully while cooking the burgers.
Cook the Patties
I heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil and cook patties for about 4–5 minutes per side. When almost done, I place cheese slices on top and cover briefly so they melt perfectly without overcooking the meat.
Toast the Buns
Using the same skillet, I place the sliced buns cut-side down and toast them lightly. Toasting creates a slight crispness and prevents the buns from becoming soggy when aioli is added.
Assemble the Sliders
I spread garlic aioli on the bottom bun, add lettuce, place the cheesy patty, and top with pickled cucumbers. Finally, I cap it with the bun lid, creating mini burgers packed with flavor in every bite.
Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better
After making these sliders several times, here are tricks that improved my results.
• I keep the beef cold until shaping so patties stay firm and juicy.
• I never overmix the meat because it makes burgers dense.
• I always toast buns to prevent them from absorbing sauce too quickly.
• I make aioli ahead so flavors deepen before serving.
• I cook patties just until done to keep them juicy, not dry.
• I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika to patties for extra flavor.
How to Serve Juicy Burger Sliders with Garlic Aioli Recipe?
Presentation makes sliders even more appealing. I usually serve them on a wooden board or large platter so guests can grab them easily. Adding fresh lettuce or herbs around the sliders makes them look colorful and inviting. Extra aioli on the side works great for dipping fries or even spreading more on sliders. Serve with sweet potato fries, potato wedges, coleslaw, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per slider:
• Calories: Around 250 kcal per slider
• Protein: About 12 grams
• Carbohydrates: Roughly 15 grams
• Fat: Approximately 15 grams
Values vary depending on ingredient choices and toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Refrigerating
You can prepare patties a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Garlic aioli can also be made ahead, and the flavor improves as it rests overnight.
Freezing
Uncooked patties freeze well for up to two months when stored in airtight bags with parchment between them. Buns can also be frozen separately for convenience.
Reheating
To reheat cooked patties, warm them in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep them moist. Toast buns lightly before assembling again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
There are plenty of reasons these sliders quickly become favorites.
• They are quick and simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. You can have them ready without complicated steps.
• The recipe is flexible, allowing endless customization with toppings, sauces, and protein options. Everyone can build sliders to their taste.
• Sliders are naturally crowd-friendly and perfect for parties or family dinners. Guests love mini burgers they can enjoy easily.
• Garlic aioli adds gourmet flavor without extra effort, turning simple sliders into something restaurant-worthy.
• They look impressive while remaining easy to cook, making them ideal when entertaining guests or celebrating casually.
These Juicy Burger Sliders with Garlic Aioli deliver big flavor in a small package. They’re juicy, creamy, and packed with texture, making them hard to resist. Whether for game night, backyard parties, or a cozy dinner at home, these sliders never disappoint. Once you make them, they’ll quickly become one of your go-to comfort meals.
Juicy Burger Sliders with Garlic Aioli Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- I gently mix ground beef with salt and pepper until just combined, then divide it into 12 equal portions. I shape each into small patties slightly larger than the buns since they shrink while cooking. A small thumb indent in the center helps them cook evenly.
- In a bowl, I whisk mayonnaise, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil until smooth. I taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then refrigerate it so the flavors blend beautifully while cooking the burgers.
- I heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a little oil and cook patties for about 4–5 minutes per side. When almost done, I place cheese slices on top and cover briefly so they melt perfectly without overcooking the meat.
- Using the same skillet, I place the sliced buns cut-side down and toast them lightly. Toasting creates a slight crispness and prevents the buns from becoming soggy when aioli is added.
- I spread garlic aioli on the bottom bun, add lettuce, place the cheesy patty, and top with pickled cucumbers. Finally, I cap it with the bun lid, creating mini burgers packed with flavor in every bite.
Notes
• I never overmix the meat because it makes burgers dense.
• I always toast buns to prevent them from absorbing sauce too quickly.
• I make aioli ahead so flavors deepen before serving.
• I cook patties just until done to keep them juicy, not dry.
• I sometimes add a pinch of smoked paprika to patties for extra flavor.
