Steak and Cheese Sliders

Name: Steak and Cheese Sliders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 sliders
Ingredients: 1 pound thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye or sirloin); 12 slider buns; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or provolone); 1 medium onion, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

I absolutely love making these Steak and Cheese Sliders for gatherings or family night. The combination of tender steak, melty cheese, and savory seasonings creates an irresistible flavor that everyone adores. Plus, they're incredibly easy to assemble and bake, making them a favorite in my home. I often pair these sliders with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Trust me, once you try these, you'll wonder how you ever hosted without them!

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:24:28.181Z

When I first made these Steak and Cheese Sliders, I wasn't sure how popular they would be. To my delight, they vanished almost immediately! The key is to use thinly sliced steak and a generous amount of cheese to achieve that melty goodness. I also love adding a touch of garlic and onion for an extra flavor punch.

After perfecting the assembly, I discovered that covering the sliders with foil while they bake keeps the bread soft and the cheese gooey. This little trick transforms a simple recipe into a standout dish that my friends can't get enough of!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Succulent steak meets gooey, melted cheese for a comforting bite
Perfectly seasoned for that savory flavor that satisfies
Easy to make in large batches for a crowd or family gatherings

      

Perfecting the Steak

Choosing the right cut of steak is crucial for these sliders. Ribeye adds a rich, marbled flavor that enhances each bite, while sirloin offers a leaner option without sacrificing tenderness. Make sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness. A sharp knife will make this task easier and produce cleaner cuts. This step is vital, as thicker pieces can result in a chewy texture that detracts from the overall slider experience.

When cooking the steak, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the meat. This helps to sear the steak, locking in flavor and moisture. As the meat cooks, resist the urge to stir constantly; instead, let it sear for a couple of minutes before flipping. This browning adds a depth of flavor, resulting in a more delectable slider.

Bun Selection and Preparation

The choice of slider bun significantly influences the sliders' final taste and texture. Soft, slightly sweet Hawaiian rolls are a popular choice, as they complement the savory steak and cheese perfectly. Alternatively, a hearty potato bun provides a more substantial bite. Whichever you choose, ensure the buns are fresh to maintain their softness and enhance the mouthfeel of the sliders.

When assembling, consider adding a bit of garlic butter to the cut sides of the buns before layering the ingredients. This additional flavor elevates the overall dish and creates a deliciously golden crust during baking. A light brush, using a mixture of melted butter and garlic powder, will not only enhance the taste but also enrich the sliders with a beautiful golden color as they bake.

Serving and Storage Tips

These sliders are best served fresh out of the oven when the cheese is gooey and the buns are warm. However, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, a quick spin in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes will revive their original texture, as microwaving may lead to soggy buns.

For gatherings, consider making a larger batch easily by doubling the recipe and using a larger baking dish. You can assemble the sliders ahead of time and keep them covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake them. This makes hosting less stressful and allows you to enjoy the party alongside your guests, knowing that a delicious snack is on the way.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you start for a seamless cooking experience.

Ingredients

1 pound thinly sliced steak (such as ribeye or sirloin)
12 slider buns
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or provolone)
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavors!

Instructions

Prepare your workspace and ensure you have all your tools ready.

Cook the Steak

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until soft. Stir in the thinly sliced steak, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Assemble the Sliders

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish. Layer the cooked steak and onions on the buns, sprinkle cheese on top, and cover with the top halves of the buns.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, slice, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Steak and Cheese Sliders!

Let the sliders sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your sliders with different cheeses or add spices like paprika for an extra kick.

Ingredient Role Insights

The combination of shredded cheese plays a pivotal role in achieving that melty richness that complements the steak beautifully. While cheddar offers a sharp tang, provolone provides a smooth, creamy mouthfeel that can enhance the overall dish. Feel free to mix the two for a balanced flavor profile. Just ensure the cheese is evenly distributed to cover each slider adequately so that every bite is cheesy bliss.

Olive oil is not just a cooking medium; it contributes flavor and helps prevent the steak from sticking to the pan. If you want to switch things up, you can also use a flavored oil, such as garlic-infused oil, to add another layer of flavor to your steak and onions. Keep the heat at medium-high to ensure the oil remains hot enough to sear the onions and steak effectively.

Common Issues and Solutions

One common mistake is overcooking the steak, which can lead to a tough texture. Keep a close eye on your meat and use a meat thermometer if necessary; the ideal internal temperature for medium-rare steak is about 130°F (54°C). If your steak does end up overcooked, consider shredding it instead — it can still work well in the sliders!

Another issue might arise when the cheese doesn't melt properly during baking. This can happen if the cheese is too cold when added. To combat this, allow the cheese to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before assembly. This way, it melts smoothly while the sliders bake, creating the ultimate gooey goodness.

Personalizing Your Sliders

You can easily customize your Steak and Cheese Sliders by adding different toppings. For instance, sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers can introduce new flavors and textures. Adding a bit of spicy mayo or aioli on the buns is another way to add a kick to the sliders. Experimenting with toppings can turn this dish into a new favorite for every gathering.

For a lighter version, consider substituting the steak with grilled chicken or portobello mushrooms. These alternatives maintain the essence of sliders while catering to different dietary preferences. Be mindful that cooking times may vary, so adjust as needed to ensure the meat or mushrooms are fully cooked without compromising flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the steak with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze these sliders?

Absolutely! Assemble and wrap them tightly to freeze, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What's the best cheese to use?

Cheddar and provolone are great choices, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!