Sliders for Game Day

Name: Sliders for Game Day
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 12 slider buns; Cheese slices (optional); Lettuce, tomato, and condiments for serving

Highlighted under: Family Ideas

Get ready for the ultimate game day experience with these delicious sliders that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

Created by

Frederica Houghton

Last updated on 2026-01-03T07:33:34.892Z

These sliders are perfect for game day, offering a satisfying bite-sized option that everyone will love. With a mix of savory flavors and a perfect blend of toppings, they are sure to score big!

        Why You'll Love These Sliders
        Packed with flavor and perfect for sharing
Customizable with your favorite toppings
Quick and easy to prepare for any crowd

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

These sliders are a fantastic choice for game day, but their versatility means they can shine at any gathering. Whether it's a birthday party, family reunion, or casual weeknight dinner, these delicious sliders are sure to impress your guests. Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for mingling, allowing everyone to enjoy tasty bites without the need for formal seating.

The simplicity of this recipe means that you can whip them up in no time, freeing you to focus on other aspects of your event. The sliders can be prepped ahead of time, making them an ideal choice for busy hosts. Just cook them right before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

Customization at Its Best

One of the greatest advantages of these sliders is their customizable nature. You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative to cater to different dietary preferences. This means everyone can enjoy them, no matter their tastes or restrictions.

Toppings are where the fun really begins! From classic cheese and pickles to gourmet options like avocado, jalapeños, or even gourmet aioli, the choice is yours. Encourage your guests to build their own sliders with a toppings bar for an interactive and enjoyable experience that adds a personal touch to your gathering.

Easy Cleanup and Serving

When hosting, cleanup can often be a daunting task, but with these sliders, you can keep it simple. Using slider buns and minimal ingredients means fewer dishes and less mess. You can serve them on a large platter, allowing guests to help themselves, which reduces the burden of serving and lets you enjoy the festivities alongside them.

Consider adding some simple side dishes, like chips or a fresh salad, to round out your game day menu. This way, you can create a complete meal without overwhelming yourself in the kitchen. The ease of preparation and serving allows you to relax and engage with your guests, making the event all the more enjoyable.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your sliders.

For the Sliders

1 lb ground beef
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
12 slider buns
Cheese slices (optional)
Lettuce, tomato, and condiments for serving

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your game day sliders.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.

Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into 12 equal portions and shape into small patties.

Cook the Sliders

Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the sliders for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If using cheese, add a slice to each patty during the last minute of cooking to melt.

Assemble the Sliders

Place each cooked slider on a bun and top with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of condiments.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the sliders on a platter and serve immediately. Enjoy your game day feast!

These sliders are best served hot and enjoyed with friends and family!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your sliders with different meats or toppings to suit your taste.

Tips for Perfect Sliders

To ensure your sliders are juicy and flavorful, avoid overmixing the beef mixture. Just combine the ingredients until they're mixed; overworking the meat can lead to tough patties. For added flavor, consider marinating the beef with your favorite spices or sauces before forming the patties.

When cooking, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the sliders. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F, and for medium, 140°F. This helps to guarantee perfectly cooked sliders that will be moist and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your sliders with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor. Barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or spicy mayo can elevate your sliders to the next level. You can also offer a selection of chips or fries on the side for a classic game day experience.

Don’t forget about beverages! A selection of sodas, beer, or cocktails can complement the sliders beautifully. Consider serving a signature drink that ties into the theme of your gathering to make it even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook.

→ What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.

→ How can I keep the sliders warm during the game?

You can place the sliders in a warming tray or cover them with aluminum foil to retain heat.

→ Can I freeze leftover sliders?

Yes, cooked sliders can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.